Description
A refreshing and healthy cucumber pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings. This dish combines al dente fusilli or penne pasta with crisp English cucumbers, mellow onions, and a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, vinegar, and fresh herbs for a light yet flavorful salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz short pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)
Vegetables
- 2 cups English cucumber (sliced into half-moons or quarters)
- 1 small onion (soaked in cold water to mellow sharpness)
Dressing
- 1 cup yogurt (Greek yogurt for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light mayo can be used for healthier option)
- 2 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, dill, or parsley)
- 1 tsp salt (to draw moisture from cucumbers)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, and chosen fresh herbs until smooth and well combined.
- Soften the onion: Slice the small onion thinly and soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness and create a milder flavor.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and allow it to cool.
- Prepare the cucumbers: While the pasta is cooking and cooling, slice the English cucumbers into half-moons or quarters as preferred.
- Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, soaked onions, and sliced cucumbers.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve cool for a refreshing summer dish.
Notes
- Use light mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a healthier, lower-fat version.
- Soaking the onion in cold water helps mellow out its sharpness and prevents overpowering the salad.
- You can customize the fresh herbs based on your preference: basil, dill, or parsley all work well.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavors and texture.
- This salad is best served within a day for maximum freshness.
