Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad

Last summer my neighbor brought over a container of this pasta salad after I mentioned I was hosting a backyard barbecue. She refused to give me the recipe, just winked and said I would figure it out. After three attempts and some taste testing with friends who were willing to be guinea pigs, I finally cracked the code to that irresistible crunch and tangy creaminess.

I made a huge batch for my sisters baby shower last month and watched three different people ask for the recipe. My aunt actually cornered me in the kitchen to write it down before she left. Theres something about the cool cucumbers against the creamy dressing that makes people relax and settle into conversation.

Ingredients

• Small shell pasta: The curves catch the dressing beautifully and those tiny pockets hold onto the seasoning
• English cucumber: Fewer seeds and thinner skin mean no peeling required and consistent crunch in every bite
• Fresh dill: Dried herbs cannot replicate that bright grassy flavor that makes this taste like summer
• Sour cream: Creates a velvety base that clings to the pasta better than yogurt alone
• Everything bagel seasoning: The secret weapon that transforms ordinary pasta salad into something people cannot stop eating

Instructions

Cook the shells until perfectly tender:

Drop the pasta into rapidly boiling water with that teaspoon of salt and stir immediately so nothing sticks together

Whisk up the creamy dressing:

Combine the sour cream and mayonnaise until no lumps remain then add the lemon juice mustard garlic salt and pepper until everything is smooth and incorporated

Combine everything in your largest bowl:

Pile in the cooled pasta diced cucumber sliced green onions and chopped dill then pour the dressing over the top

Add the magic finishing touch:

Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning across the surface and use a gentle folding motion to distribute it evenly without crushing those delicate cucumber cubes

Let the flavors mingle:

Taste a bite and add more salt or pepper if needed then refrigerate for at least thirty minutes to let everything get friendly with each other

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My dad who claims to hate pasta salad ate three servings at our Fourth of July picnic and asked when I was making it again. Sometimes the simplest dishes become the ones people talk about long after the plates are cleared.

Make It Your Own

I have discovered that adding diced red bell pepper brings sweetness and gorgeous color that makes the dish pop on a buffet table. Sometimes I toss in chickpeas when I want to make it more substantial for a light lunch.

Getting Ahead

This pasta salad actually improves after a day in the fridge because the seasoning softens slightly and permeates the dressing. I always make it the night before a party so the flavors have time to develop fully.

Serving Suggestions

Pile this into a chilled bowl and garnish with extra dill sprigs for a pretty presentation that looks effortless. It pairs beautifully with anything coming off the grill.

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete summer meal
• Offer extra everything bagel seasoning on the side for guests who love that extra crunch
• Keep the bowl over ice during outdoor parties to maintain that perfect chilled temperature

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This is the recipe that finally got my nephew to eat vegetables without complaining. That feels like a victory worth sharing.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long does this pasta salad keep in the refrigerator?

This pasta salad stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and improve after chilling for several hours, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes best when chilled for at least 30 minutes before serving, making it ideal for advance preparation. You can make it up to 24 hours ahead, though the pasta may absorb more dressing over time.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent lighter substitute for sour cream, adding protein while maintaining creaminess. You could also use plain Greek yogurt or a combination of half sour cream and half yogurt for a balanced flavor and texture.

→ What other vegetables work well in this salad?

Diced celery or radishes add extra crunch, while bell peppers provide color and sweetness. Cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced red onion would also complement the creamy dressing and everything bagel seasoning beautifully.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

While small shells work perfectly for holding the dressing and seasoning, other small pasta shapes like rotini, bow ties, or macaroni would also work well. Choose shapes with nooks and crannies that can trap the flavorful creamy dressing.

→ Is this pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your chosen mayonnaise brand doesn't contain animal-derived ingredients. The dish provides a satisfying combination of carbohydrates, vegetables, and dairy for a complete vegetarian meal.