Description
This Crispy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant summer dish that combines the crunch of fresh cucumbers and bell peppers with tender tri-color pasta, all dressed in a creamy Greek yogurt sauce with a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue, this salad is easy to prepare and delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups tri-color pasta
- 1 medium English cucumber
- 1/2 medium onion (soaked in cold water)
- 1 cup bell peppers (optional, mixed colors)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
Dressing
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or mayo)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, wash and dry the cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Dice the cucumber and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Rinse the onion and soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness, then drain and finely chop.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy and flavorful dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, diced cucumber, chopped onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a richer flavor.
- Soaking the onion in cold water helps mellow its sharpness.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent it from sticking and to cool it for the salad.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it ideal for gatherings.
