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Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re ready to whisk you away to a refreshing culinary experience with our Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad recipe. This delightful salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the fresh flavors of dill, and the satisfying textures of pasta to create a dish that is both light and satisfying. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad is a celebration of summer flavors. Join us as we dive into the recipe, step-by-step instructions, and the countless ways to customize this versatile dish to your liking.
The Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the rich tradition of pasta salads with the vibrant flavors of cucumbers and dill. Pasta salads have been enjoyed worldwide for generations, with countless variations featuring a medley of ingredients. This particular recipe introduces a zesty and herbaceous twist by incorporating fresh cucumbers and dill.
- Pasta Salad Tradition: Pasta salads have a long history and can be traced back to various regions worldwide. They are popular for their versatility, making them suitable for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings.
- Cucumber and Dill: Cucumbers and dill are a classic pairing known for their refreshing and tangy qualities. Together, they add a cool and crisp element to the pasta salad, making it perfect for warm-weather occasions.
- Modern Twist: The Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad represents a modern interpretation of a classic recipe. It’s a fusion of flavors that offers a vibrant, herbaceous profile, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate fresh and healthy dishes.
Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad
Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the best of summer flavors. With the cool and crisp cucumbers, the herbaceous notes of fresh dill, and the comforting textures of al dente pasta, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The tangy dressing adds a zesty kick, perfectly complementing the fresh ingredients. This salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious option, as it is packed with hydrating cucumbers and wholesome pasta. Whether you're enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at a summer gathering, this Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad is sure to impress.
Tools and Equipment
- Large pot: Buy On Amazon
- Mixing bowl: Buy On Amazon
- Whisk or fork: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Serving bowl or platter: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Chef's knife and cutting board: Buy On Amazon and Buy On Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, chopped dill, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again until the pasta is well coated with the dressing and mixed with the other ingredients.
If desired, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently toss to incorporate.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill for an extra touch of freshness.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 408.12kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.85g31%
- Saturated Fat 3.7g19%
- Cholesterol 8.53mg3%
- Sodium 428.27mg18%
- Potassium 344.45mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 48.28g17%
- Dietary Fiber 3.22g13%
- Sugars 3.87g
- Protein 9.67g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with vegan feta or tofu crumbles.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as bell peppers or radishes, to add more crunch and color.
- Customize the dressing by adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- To make it a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes and sizes to change the texture and presentation of the salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.
- Pack it for a picnic or take it to a potluck gathering for a crowd-pleasing dish.
- Enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch option on its own or with a piece of crusty bread.
Allergen Information:
The Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad is generally allergen-friendly, but it's important to be aware of the following:
Pasta: Most pasta is made from wheat, which contains gluten. If you need a gluten-free option, choose pasta made from rice, corn, or other gluten-free grains.
Dairy: If you include dairy-based yogurt or sour cream in the dressing, be cautious if you have lactose or dairy allergies. Substitute with non-dairy alternatives like coconut or almond-based yogurt.
Nuts: Some variations of this recipe may include chopped nuts for added texture. If you or your guests have nut allergies, omit the nuts or choose a nut-free alternative for added crunch, like sunflower seeds.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
The Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of beverages, especially on a warm day:
Iced Tea: A classic iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, complements the freshness of the salad.
Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade, perhaps with a hint of mint, matches the zesty and citrusy notes in the salad.
White Wine: A light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, harmonizes with the salad's refreshing flavors.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or cucumber is a fantastic choice.
Storage and Leftovers:
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain the quality of your Cucumber-Dill Pasta Salad:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to the dairy-based dressing, it's best to consume the salad within 2-3 days to ensure freshness and food safety.
Dressing: If you have dressed the entire salad and expect leftovers, you may want to reserve some of the dressing separately. Toss the salad with fresh dressing before serving again.
Texture: Keep in mind that pasta salads can become drier over time as the pasta absorbs the dressing. You can adjust the consistency with a little extra dressing or a splash of olive oil before serving the leftovers.
