Cucumber Pasta Salad (Printable Recipe)

Light cucumber salad with creamy dressing, herbs, and whole-wheat pasta. Great for summer lunches or gatherings.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Salad

01 - 12 ounces whole-wheat orecchiette pasta
02 - 1 medium English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
03 - 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
05 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

→ Dressing

06 - 3/4 cup mayonnaise
07 - 3 tablespoons white vinegar
08 - 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water, drain thoroughly, and transfer to a large bowl.
02 - Stir in the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped dill into the cooled pasta.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
04 - Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours before serving.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onion in cold water before adding to the salad.
02 - Orecchiette pasta is ideal for holding creamy dressing, but bow tie, cavatappi, or rotini are also suitable.
03 - Add grilled shrimp or sliced chicken breast for a heartier dish.