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cucumber pasta salad

Fresh Cucumber Pasta Salad

This refreshing cucumber pasta salad combines tender rotini, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta with a bright lemon dressing for the perfect summer side dish or light meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Grain & Pasta Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 215

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta about 3 cups cooked
  • 1 large English cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives pitted and halved (optional)
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh is best
  • 1 clove garlic minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake well to remove excess water.
  3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.
  4. Add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and optional kalamata olives to the bowl with the pasta.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, optional minced garlic, optional oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
  8. Just before serving, toss again and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, make this salad at least 20 minutes ahead of serving time to allow the flavors to meld.
  • English or seedless cucumbers work best as they contain less moisture and fewer seeds than regular garden cucumbers.
  • To make ahead, prepare all components but store the dressing separately until 1-2 hours before serving.
  • This salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • For a protein boost, add diced grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or white beans.