Description
Enjoy a refreshing and healthy cucumber pasta salad that combines crunchy cucumber and tender pasta with a creamy, tangy dressing made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh dill. Perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 sweet white onion
Pasta
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 8 ounces of medium pasta such as penne or rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, peel or wash the English cucumber and slice it thinly. Chop the half sweet white onion finely. Place the sliced cucumber and chopped onion into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, and 2 tablespoons vinegar. Season with black pepper to taste, then whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the salad: Add the cooled pasta into the bowl with the cucumber and onions. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a light main dish or a refreshing side salad.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to cool it quickly.
- Fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous flavor; if unavailable, you can substitute with fresh parsley or chives.
- Adjust the vinegar amount based on your preferred level of tanginess.
- This salad is best served fresh within a day or two to maintain crispness.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
