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Fresh Creamy Cucumber Dill Pasta Salad Recipe Without Mayo Easy and Delicious

fresh creamy cucumber dill pasta salad without mayo - featured image

A light and fresh pasta salad featuring crisp cucumbers, fragrant dill, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing without mayo. Perfect for summer picnics or as a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) small pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or elbow macaroni
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain completely for about 5 minutes.
  2. While pasta cooks, wash and thinly slice 2 medium English cucumbers. Optionally peel partially for texture. Lay slices on a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let sit for about 10 minutes, then pat dry.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust lemon or salt as needed.
  4. Finely chop 3 tablespoons fresh dill and, if using, 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained cucumber slices, chopped dill, and green onions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly without bruising cucumbers.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss gently again and adjust seasoning if needed. Drain any excess liquid before serving.

Notes

Salting cucumbers before mixing reduces excess moisture and keeps the salad crisp. Use thick Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without mayo. Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly. Toss gently to avoid bruising cucumbers. Chill salad at least 30 minutes for best flavor. If salad looks dry after chilling, add a splash of cold water or olive oil. Drain excess liquid before serving if needed.

Nutrition

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