Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The creamy dressing perfectly complements the cool crunch of cucumbers and the softness of the pasta, making every bite a balance of textures. It’s a wonderful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone light meal. This dish is ideal for meal prep too, as the flavors continue to develop and improve as it sits in the refrigerator.

Plus, it’s a quick recipe with minimal ingredients, so you don’t have to spend much time in the kitchen to make something that tastes both indulgent and refreshing.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool.
Prepare the cucumbers: While the pasta is cooling, peel and thinly slice the cucumbers. Place them in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After that, gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
Make the dressing: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cucumbers, and dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta and cucumbers are evenly coated.
Chill and serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)

Variations

Add protein: You can add diced chicken, for extra protein, making it a more filling meal.
Add other vegetables: For extra crunch and flavor, add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions.
Vegan version: Use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream to make the salad dairy-free and plant-based.
Herbs and spices: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like chives, basil, or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese into the salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the creamy cucumber pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even tastier the next day.
Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Just enjoy straight from the fridge!

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors blend better after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping the day before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta. The shape of the pasta won’t affect the overall flavor, so choose your favorite.

3. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a lighter option. It will still give the dressing a creamy texture and a tangy flavor.

4. How can I prevent the cucumbers from making the salad watery?

To prevent excess water from seeping into the salad, salt the cucumbers before adding them to the salad. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the labels on the pasta and other ingredients if you have a strict gluten sensitivity.

6. Can I make this pasta salad spicy?

Yes, you can add a little kick to this salad by incorporating red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even a chopped jalapeño pepper into the dressing or with the cucumbers.

Conclusion

Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the crispness of cucumbers, the richness of a creamy dressing, and the comforting texture of pasta. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a barbecue, or just for a weeknight meal, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit. With its refreshing flavors and versatile ingredients, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy!