Best Cucumber Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish bursting with flavors and colors that are perfect for any occasion. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, crisp cucumbers, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a vibrant and inviting salad that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad can easily steal the show on your table.
As you delve into the delightful world of this pasta salad, you will savor the fresh, crunchy textures paired with a zesty dressing that brings everything together. This article will guide you through the process of making this flavorful dish from start to finish, ensuring a delicious experience that is both enjoyable and simple to prepare. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Each component shines with vibrant, natural flavors.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick and simple, perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Nutrition: Loaded with veggies and good carbs, it’s a healthy option.
- Versatility: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side, and customize as you like!
- Presentation: The colorful medley makes it visually stunning for any meal.
You won’t be able to resist making this salad a go-to recipe!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
Start by selecting 8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta, 2 cups cucumbers (diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 red onion (diced), 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped), 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
Pasta
- What to Use: Fusilli or rotini shapes hold the dressing well.
- Preparation: Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, try gluten-free pasta or whole wheat.
- Tips: Make sure to cool pasta after cooking to keep veggies crisp.
Cucumbers
- What to Use: Firm cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
- Preparation: Wash and dice them into small pieces.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, zucchini works too.
- Tips: Peel the cucumbers for a smoother texture if preferred.
Cherry Tomatoes
- What to Use: Sweet cherry tomatoes add color and flavor.
- Preparation: Halve the tomatoes for bite-sized pieces.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use grape tomatoes or roasted sun-dried tomatoes.
- Tips: Choose vibrant, firm tomatoes for the best flavor.
Red Onion
- What to Use: Red onion offers a slight sweetness and color.
- Preparation: Dice finely to distribute flavor.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, green onions or shallots will work too.
- Tips: Soak diced onions in cold water for a milder taste.
Fresh Parsley
- What to Use: Fresh parsley adds brightness and a herbal note.
- Preparation: Chop lightly before adding to the salad.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, cilantro or basil can be used.
- Tips: Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Olive Oil & Red Wine Vinegar
- What to Use: Extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar create a tangy dressing.
- Preparation: Combine the two for the perfect dressing.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use avocado oil or balsamic vinegar.
- Tips: Ensure high-quality oils for maximum flavor.
Garlic Powder, Salt & Pepper
- What to Use: Seasonings to enhance all other flavors.
- Preparation: Simply add to taste.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, try onion powder or fresh herbs.
- Tips: Taste while seasoning to find your perfect balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This one-pan pasta salad is easy to make and perfect for any skill level!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, then drain and cool under cold water.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
While the pasta cools, wash the cucumbers and tomatoes. Dice cucumbers and halve the tomatoes. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Chop the Herbs and Onions
Dice the red onion and chop the fresh parsley. Add them to the bowl with vegetables for a fresh flavor boost.
Step 4: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed, then set aside.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the mixture, tossing gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is delicious!
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and let it sit in the fridge for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl or individual plates for an elegant look.
- Accompaniments: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or fresh bread.
- Portions: Great for parties; serve larger portions for a full meal!
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled white wine or sparkling water.
This salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Additional Tips
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Customize by adding olives, feta cheese, or bell peppers.
- Serve with a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra kick!
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta cheese, and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Protein-Packed: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for more protein.
- Pasta Salad Wrap: Use the salad as a filling in wraps or pita for a fun twist!
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Special Equipment
- Large cooking pot
- Colander for draining pasta
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Whisk for dressing
- Ladle or serving spoon
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen ingredients?
While fresh cucumbers and tomatoes work best, you can use frozen pasta. Just ensure it’s cooked properly and thawed before mixing.
2. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This salad is completely vegetarian and can easily be vegan by omitting any cheese.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better when the flavors have time to blend, just store it in the fridge.
4. Can I customize the ingredients?
Definitely! You can add or replace any of the veggies or herbs based on your preference.
5. Are there alternative cooking methods?
You can also grill or roast some ingredients for a smoky flavor; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
Best Cucumber Pasta Salad is a fantastic dish that combines health and flavor effortlessly. With fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply a delightful meal at home. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends for a refreshing experience!
Best Cucumber Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Vegetables
- 2 cups cucumbers (diced) Use firm cucumbers for crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) Choose vibrant, sweet cherry tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced) Soak in cold water for milder taste.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil Use extra virgin for maximum flavor.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar Can substitute with balsamic vinegar.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adjust to taste.
- salt to taste salt Season to your preference.
- pepper to taste pepper Season to your preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil salted water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, then drain and cool under cold water.
- While the pasta cools, wash the cucumbers and tomatoes. Dice cucumbers and halve the tomatoes. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the red onion and chop the fresh parsley. Add them to the bowl with vegetables for a fresh flavor boost.
Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed, then set aside.
Combining
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the mixture, tossing gently to combine all ingredients.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is delicious!
Chilling
- Cover the salad and let it sit in the fridge for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
