Save The air conditioner was broken during our last apartment pool party, but nobody seemed to mind once I brought out this chilled pasta salad. My friend Sarah actually went back for thirds and asked if I could leave the bowl behind when I moved out. That is when I knew this recipe was something special.
Last summer I made this for my sisters baby shower and her mother in law who never likes anything actually asked for the recipe. The best part was watching my three year old niece sneak cucumber pieces while I was trying to assemble everything.
Ingredients
- 225 g (8 oz) small shell pasta: Those little cups catch the creamy dressing in the most wonderful way
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water from within
- 2 cups cucumber diced: English cucumbers work best because their skin is tender and seeds are minimal
- 2 green onions thinly sliced: Their mild onion flavor blends beautifully without overwhelming
- 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped: Fresh dill makes all the difference here over dried
- 120 ml (½ cup) sour cream: Creates that luxurious creamy base
- 60 ml (¼ cup) mayonnaise: Adds just enough richness to balance the tang
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the creaminess
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle depth that most people cannot quite identify
- 1 clove garlic minced: One clove is perfect because it mellows as the salad chills
- ½ tsp salt: Brings all the flavors together
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth
- 1½ tbsp everything bagel seasoning: The secret ingredient that makes people ask what is in this
Instructions
- Cook the pasta perfectly:
- Boil those shells in salted water until they are tender but still have a slight bite then rinse under cold water until completely cool to stop the cooking process.
- Whisk up the creamy dressing:
- Combine sour cream mayonnaise lemon juice Dijon garlic salt and pepper in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything gently:
- Add the cooled pasta cucumber green onions and fresh dill to the dressing then toss with a light hand to coat everything without mashing the cucumber.
- Add the magic seasoning:
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the salad and fold it in gently so those flavorful bits get distributed throughout.
- Let it chill and meld:
- Taste and adjust any seasonings then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors really get to know each other.
Save This pasta salad has become my go to contribution for every potluck and barbecue. There is something so satisfying about watching an empty bowl come back home with requests to bring it again next time.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I add diced red bell pepper for extra color or swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream when I want something lighter. My cousin adds cubed avocado and says it is life changing but I have never tried it myself.
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish but honestly I have eaten it as a main dish more times than I care to admit. It holds up beautifully at room temperature for about two hours making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Storage And Meal Prep
The flavors actually get better overnight so this is an excellent make ahead dish. Store it in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before serving.
- Add fresh dill right before serving to maintain its bright green color
- If the pasta seems dry after chilling add a splash of milk or more sour cream
- This salad keeps well for two days but the cucumbers will start releasing water after that
Save There is something so simple and satisfying about a dish that brings people together. Hope this becomes a staple in your summer rotation too.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for advance preparation. You can assemble it up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld together. Just give it a gentle toss before serving.
- → What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a lighter alternative with similar tanginess. You can also use crème fraîche or a combination of half mayo and half plain yogurt. The dressing will be slightly different in texture but equally delicious.
- → How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente, then immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This firms up the exterior and prevents overcooking. Chilling before serving also helps maintain the ideal texture.
- → What vegetables pair well with this salad?
Beyond cucumbers and green onions, try adding diced celery, radishes, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Avoid watery vegetables that may release excess moisture. About 3-4 cups total of mixed vegetables works best.
- → Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store the dressed pasta salad in portions in sealed containers for up to 2 days. If transporting to an event, keep it chilled in an insulated container with ice packs to maintain freshness and crispness.
- → What proteins pair well with this dish?
Grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or shrimp are excellent protein pairings. For vegetarian options, add grilled tofu or chickpeas. You can also serve it as a refreshing side to BBQ meats or enjoy it on its own.