Updated on September 24th, 2025
Cucumber pasta salad is one of those dishes that’s perfect for summer cookouts or picnics. The cool cucumber and tender pasta are tossed with a creamy sour cream dressing that’s flavored with fresh dill and vinegar. It’s light, refreshing, and simple to make with just a handful of ingredients. You can keep it as a side or add chicken or cheese to turn it into a full meal.
Why this recipe works
- Refreshing flavor: The cucumber and dill create a bright, cooling taste that makes this salad especially enjoyable during warm weather gatherings.
- Creamy dressing: The sour cream and mayonnaise blend into a smooth dressing that coats the pasta and vegetables beautifully without being heavy.
- Simple steps: With just a little chopping, boiling, and mixing, the recipe is easy enough for beginners yet flavorful enough for everyone.
- Versatile base: This pasta salad works well with extra ingredients like cheese, olives, or grilled chicken, letting you make it fit any occasion.
- Make ahead: The salad tastes even better after chilling, making it convenient to prepare in advance for cookouts, potlucks, or family meals.
Serving suggestions
- Cookout side: Serve cucumber pasta salad next to grilled burgers, hot dogs, or chicken for a refreshing balance to smoky main dishes.
- Picnic ready: Pack the salad in a container and bring it along for a picnic, since it holds up well when served chilled.
- Family dinner: Pair it with baked fish or roasted meats to add a cool, creamy contrast to warm and savory main courses.
- Potluck favorite: Bring it to a potluck or party where guests can scoop generous portions; it’s a dish that always goes quickly.
- Lunch option: Enjoy cucumber pasta salad on its own or with added protein for a light, filling lunch that’s quick to prepare.
Cucumber pasta salad recipe
Make cucumber pasta salad for a light and refreshing summer side dish recipe, easy to prepare and perfect for barbecues or gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cucumber (seeded and sliced)
- 1/2lb rotini pasta
- 1/2 sweet white onion (sliced)
Dressing-
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, fresh dill, vinegar, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl combine the pasta, cucumber, and onion. Mix in the dressing gently until combined. Refrigerate for 40 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 2.7 g
- Sodium: 329 mg
- Fat: 17.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 33.1 g
- Protein: 6.9 g
- Cholesterol: 14.4 mg