Name: Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 14 min
Total time: 54 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 English cucumber; ½ lb pasta; ½ sweet white onion; For Dressing:; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp sugar; ½ tsp salt; 2 tbsp fresh dill; 2 tbsp white vinegar; pepper

Discover a refreshing twist on pasta salad with a delightful blend of creamy and crunchy textures. This creamy cucumber pasta salad is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, combining fresh cucumbers and a tangy dressing that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Photos of Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe

When shopping for this recipe, you may need to pick up a few specific items. English cucumber is often longer and thinner than regular cucumbers, providing a crisp texture. Fresh dill is essential for the herby flavor, and white vinegar adds the necessary tang to the dressing.

Ingredients for Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

english cucumber: Known for its thin skin and fewer seeds, offering a crisp texture.

pasta: Use your favorite shape that holds dressing well, like rotini or penne.

sweet white onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor that complements the creamy dressing.

sour cream: Provides a rich, tangy base for the dressing.

mayonnaise: Gives the dressing a creamy, smooth texture.

sugar: Balances the tanginess with a hint of sweetness.

salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

fresh dill: Adds a burst of herby freshness.

white vinegar: Brings a sharp, tangy element to the dressing.

pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dressing.

One reader, Bendite Eisenberg says:

This creamy cucumber pasta salad is a refreshing delight! The blend of sour cream, dill, and crisp cucumbers creates a perfect harmony. It's easy to make and a hit at gatherings. Highly recommend!

Bendite Eisenberg

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

How to thinly slice an onion: Use a sharp knife to cut the onion in half from root to tip. Place the flat side down and make thin, even slices. How to cook pasta to al dente: Follow the package instructions, usually boiling the pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until it is firm to the bite. How to run pasta under cold water: After draining the pasta, place it in a colander and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process and cool it down. How to remove seeds from a cucumber: Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds from the center. How to mix dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth and well combined.

How To Make Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

Serve up a bowl of creamy cucumber pasta salad for your next dinner party! It’s made with a sour and sweet dressing for a more tasteful dish.

Preparation: 14 minutes

Cooking:

Rest Time: 40 minutes

Total: 54 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1english cucumber,long
½: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>½sweet white onion

For Dressing:

½cupsour cream
½cupmayonnaise
1tspsugar
½tspsalt
2tbspfresh dill
2tbspwhite vinegar
pepper,to taste

Instructions

Combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, dill, vinegar, and pepper in a small bowl, then mix well. Set aside.
Thinly slice the onion, then place it in a bowl of cold water.
Cook the pasta to al dente according to package directions.
Run the pasta under cold water, then set aside.
Cut cucumber in half lengthwise, then remove seeds using a spoon.
Slice the cucumbers into thin slices.
Toss the dressing, pasta, and cucumbers in a large bowl.
Let sit for at least 40 minutes.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 245.17kcal
Fat: 14.44g
Saturated Fat: 3.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.97g
Carbohydrates: 24.42g
Fiber: 1.31g
Sugar: 2.66g
Protein: 4.36g
Cholesterol: 13.11mg
Sodium: 238.40mg
Calcium: 31.62mg
Potassium: 155.63mg
Iron: 0.56mg
Vitamin A: 27.80µg
Vitamin C: 1.88mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

To ensure the onion has a milder flavor and a crisp texture, soak the thinly sliced onion in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will help to reduce its sharpness and make it more palatable in the creamy cucumber pasta salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Salad Recipe

Prepare ingredients ahead: Chop the cucumber and onion the night before to save time on the day of preparation.

Use pre-cooked pasta: Opt for pre-cooked pasta available in stores to cut down on cooking time.

Quick chill method: After cooking the pasta, place it in an ice bath to cool it down faster.

Pre-make the dressing: Mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and other dressing ingredients in advance and store in the fridge.

Use a mandoline: Slice the cucumber and onion quickly and uniformly with a mandoline slicer.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe

english cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative in salads.
pasta - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a gluten-free option that provides a similar texture and absorbs flavors well.
sweet white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onion adds a bit more color and a slightly sharper flavor, which can enhance the salad.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture and tanginess but with added protein and fewer calories.
mayonnaise - Substitute with avocado: Mashed avocado provides creaminess and healthy fats, making it a nutritious alternative.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a bit of complexity to the dressing.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
fresh dill - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a different but equally fresh and vibrant flavor to the salad.
white vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides acidity and a fresh citrus flavor that complements the other ingredients.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the salad, enhancing its flavor profile.

Best Way to Present Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy cucumber pasta salad in elegant, shallow bowls to highlight the dish's textures and colors. Use a ring mold to shape the pasta into a neat, compact mound.
Use decoration: Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill and a few thin slices of cucumber arranged artistically around the plate. Add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a touch of shine.
Highlight textures: Place a few crispy cucumber ribbons on top of the pasta salad to add a contrasting crunch. Use a mandoline to achieve paper-thin slices.
Add color contrast: Incorporate a few edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure the sour cream, mayonnaise, and vinegar are of the finest quality to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Create a balanced plate: Serve the creamy cucumber pasta salad alongside a small portion of lightly dressed mixed greens to provide a refreshing contrast.
Focus on cleanliness: Keep the presentation clean and minimalistic. Wipe the edges of the plate to remove any stray dressing or crumbs for a polished look.
Incorporate height: Stack the pasta salad slightly higher in the center to create visual interest and dimension on the plate.
Use complementary flavors: Add a few drops of a tangy lemon vinaigrette around the plate to complement the creamy dressing and add a burst of acidity.
Serve at the right temperature: Ensure the pasta salad is served chilled but not too cold, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly and provide a refreshing experience.

Essential Tools for Making Cucumber Pasta Salad

Small bowl: For mixing the dressing ingredients together.
Whisk: To mix the dressing ingredients until well combined.
Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for slicing the cucumber and onion.
Chef's knife: For slicing the cucumber and onion thinly.
Spoon: To remove the seeds from the cucumber.
Large pot: To cook the pasta.
Colander: To drain the pasta after cooking.
Large bowl: For tossing the pasta, cucumber, and dressing together.
Measuring cups: To measure out the sour cream, mayonnaise, and vinegar.
Measuring spoons: To measure the sugar, salt, and pepper.
Serving spoon: For serving the creamy cucumber pasta salad.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

To store the creamy cucumber pasta salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you notice the salad becoming watery after a day or two, simply drain off the excess liquid and give it a good stir before serving.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta salad. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cucumbers and pasta may change slightly upon thawing.
To freeze, transfer the salad to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. Seal the container tightly and label it with the date.
Freeze the creamy cucumber pasta salad for up to 2 months for best quality.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen salad overnight in the refrigerator.
After thawing, you may notice that the salad has released some liquid. Simply drain off the excess liquid and give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing.
If the salad seems a bit dry after thawing, you can freshen it up by adding a dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise and mixing well.
Serve the thawed creamy cucumber pasta salad chilled, garnished with extra fresh dill if desired, and enjoy the cool and refreshing flavors.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

A fun fact about this creamy cucumber pasta salad recipe is that dill, one of the key ingredients, has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties. It was believed to aid digestion and even ward off evil spirits.

Is Making Cucumber Pasta Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy cucumber pasta salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like pasta, cucumber, and sour cream are relatively inexpensive. The use of fresh dill and white vinegar adds a burst of flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, this dish can be prepared for approximately $10-$12, making it an affordable option for a family of four. The balance of creamy and fresh elements makes it both delicious and economical. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Creamy Pasta Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy cucumber pasta salad recipe, while refreshing and flavorful, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The dressing contains a significant amount of sour cream and mayonnaise, which are high in saturated fats and calories.
The recipe calls for sugar, adding unnecessary extra calories to the dish.
White pasta is used, which is typically made from refined flour and lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Cucumbers, which are low in calories and high in water content, vitamins, and minerals.
Fresh dill, which adds flavor and contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds.
Onions, which provide flavor and contain vitamins, minerals, and prebiotic fibers.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Use a light or olive oil-based mayonnaise to reduce the saturated fat content.
Omit the sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in a smaller quantity.
Opt for whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Add more vegetables to the salad, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or carrots, to boost the vitamin and mineral content.
Reduce the amount of dressing used, or serve it on the side, allowing individuals to control their portion size.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this creamy cucumber pasta salad into a more balanced and nutritious dish that still retains its delightful taste and texture. Experiment with different ingredients and ratios to find the perfect balance that satisfies your taste buds while nourishing your body.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

This creamy cucumber pasta salad recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The crisp cucumber and al dente pasta provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, tangy dressing. The fresh dill adds a burst of herbaceousness, while the sweet white onion offers a subtle sweetness. The balance of sour cream and mayonnaise ensures a creamy consistency without being overly heavy. Allowing the salad to sit for at least 40 minutes enhances the melding of flavors. This dish is perfect for a summer picnic or as a light side for grilled meats.

Enhance Your Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Pair your creamy cucumber pasta salad with grilled lemon herb chicken. The zesty citrus notes and aromatic herbs will beautifully complement the refreshing cucumber and creamy dressing of the salad. The tender, juicy chicken adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making your meal a harmonious blend of tastes.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: Add a touch of the ocean to your meal with garlic butter shrimp skewers. The succulent shrimp, bathed in rich garlic butter, offers a savory and slightly sweet profile that pairs exquisitely with the cool, creamy pasta salad. This combination will transport your taste buds to a coastal paradise.

Roasted Vegetable Medley: For a burst of color and flavor, serve a roasted vegetable medley alongside your pasta salad. The caramelized edges of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes bring a smoky sweetness that enhances the fresh, crisp cucumber and creamy dressing. This vibrant side dish adds a wholesome and hearty element to your meal.

Caprese Stuffed Avocados: Elevate your dining experience with caprese stuffed avocados. The creamy avocado halves filled with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful contrast to the creamy cucumber pasta salad. This side dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, offering a rich and refreshing taste.

Mango Salsa: Bring a tropical twist to your meal with mango salsa. The sweet and tangy mango chunks mixed with red onions, cilantro, and a hint of lime provide a vibrant and zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cucumber pasta salad. This side dish adds a refreshing and exotic flair to your table.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad: Dive into a Mediterranean delight with this Greek Pasta Salad. Featuring pasta, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onions, and feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a refreshing summer meal.

Creamy Avocado Pasta: Indulge in the creamy goodness of Creamy Avocado Pasta. This dish combines pasta with a rich avocado and Greek yogurt sauce, enhanced with garlic, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. A healthy and satisfying option for any day.

Caprese Pasta Salad: Experience the classic flavors of Caprese Pasta Salad. This vibrant dish features pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A delightful fusion of Italian favorites.

Southwest Pasta Salad: Spice things up with Southwest Pasta Salad. This colorful creation includes pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and red onions, all tossed in a tangy lime-cilantro dressing. A fiesta in every bite.

Lemon Herb Orzo Salad: Refresh your palate with Lemon Herb Orzo Salad. This light and zesty dish features orzo pasta, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a generous amount of fresh herbs, all brought together with a lemon vinaigrette. A perfect side for any meal.

Why trust this Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad Recipe:

This creamy cucumber pasta salad recipe is a must-try for its refreshing and tangy flavors. The combination of sour cream and mayonnaise creates a rich, creamy dressing that perfectly complements the crisp cucumbers and tender pasta. Fresh dill adds a burst of herbaceous flavor, while a touch of sugar balances the vinegar's acidity. This dish is easy to prepare and ideal for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, deliciousness, and the perfect blend of textures and tastes.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cucumber?

Absolutely! If you can't find an English cucumber, you can use regular cucumbers. Just make sure to remove the seeds and peel if the skin is too thick.

How long can I store the creamy cucumber pasta salad?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good mix before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

I usually go for short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowties. They hold the dressing well and are easy to eat in a salad.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling.