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Creamy Dill Cucumber Pasta Salad

creamy dill cucumber pasta salad - featured image

A quick and refreshing summer side dish featuring creamy dill dressing, crisp cucumbers, and tender pasta. Perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to drain well.
  2. While pasta cooks, wash and thinly slice 2 medium cucumbers. Optionally peel for milder texture. Finely dice 1/4 cup red onion if using. Place cucumbers and onion in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, drained cucumbers, and red onion. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, toss again and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse pasta after cooking to stop cooking and remove starch. Salt cucumbers and pat dry to prevent watery salad. If salad absorbs too much dressing after chilling, stir in a splash of olive oil or more yogurt to refresh creaminess. Fresh dill is preferred for best flavor. Lemon juice brightens the dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, cucumber salad, creamy dill, summer side dish, easy pasta salad, refreshing salad