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Fresh Creamy Dill Cucumber Pasta Salad

fresh creamy dill cucumber pasta salad - featured image
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A quick and easy summer side dish featuring elbow macaroni, fresh cucumber, and a creamy dill dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Light, refreshing, and perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise (optional, light or avocado mayo for a twist)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or scallions
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of elbow macaroni or small shells and cook according to package directions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. While pasta cooks, thinly slice 1 large English cucumber and finely chop 2 tablespoons fresh dill.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 small minced garlic clove until smooth.
  5. Season dressing with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Add 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup if desired.
  6. Add cooled pasta, sliced cucumber, and chopped dill to the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool. Use fresh dill for best flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Add dressing only after pasta is cooled to prevent sogginess. Optional ingredients like red onion, scallions, or honey can be added for extra flavor. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute Greek yogurt and mayo with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, cucumber salad, dill, creamy dressing, summer side dish, quick recipe, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/fresh-creamy-dill-cucumber-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-minute-side-dish/