Recipe For Pasta Salad With Tomatoes and Cucumber

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a pasta salad featuring tomatoes and cucumbers, perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal.

Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Cucumbers

Ingredients

8 oz. pasta (fusilli, rotini, or any shape you prefer)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced (or 2 mini cucumbers, sliced)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for a vegetarian option)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.

Prepare the Vegetables:

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes and cucumber. If using, finely chop the red onion.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Chill and Serve:

Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

What other herbs can I use instead of dill?

If you’re looking to substitute dill in your pasta salad, consider using:

Basil: Offers a sweet and aromatic flavor.
Oregano: Adds a robust, earthy taste that complements pasta dishes.
Parsley: Provides a fresh and mild flavor.
Thyme: Delivers a subtle, herbal note.
Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor, perfect for salads.

Can I use a different type of pasta shape?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta shape you prefer. Options include:

Fusilli: Corkscrew-shaped pasta that holds dressing well.
Penne: Tube-shaped pasta that adds a nice texture.
Farfalli (bowtie): Fun shape that works well in salads.
Rotini: Spiral-shaped pasta that captures ingredients nicely.
The key is to choose a shape that will hold the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients.

How can I make the salad spicy?

To add some heat to your pasta salad, consider the following options:

Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a quick spice boost.
Jalapeños or Other Fresh Peppers: Dice fresh jalapeños or other spicy peppers and mix them in.
Hot Sauce: Add your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.
Cayenne Pepper: Incorporate cayenne pepper into the dressing for added heat.

What’s a good vegetarian alternative to mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives to mayonnaise in your pasta salad, consider:

Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it makes a great substitute.
Avocado: Mashed avocado can provide creaminess and healthy fats.
Silken Tofu: Blended silken tofu creates a smooth texture similar to mayo.
Vegan Mayonnaise: A direct substitute that mimics traditional mayo without eggs.

Can I add some cheese to the salad?

Absolutely! Adding cheese can enhance the flavor and creaminess of your pasta salad. Consider:

Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty and tangy flavor.
Mozzarella Balls: Fresh mozzarella or bocconcini adds creaminess and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shaved Parmesan provides a savory depth.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar can give a nice contrast in flavor.

These suggestions will help you customize your pasta salad with tomatoes and cucumbers to suit your taste preferences while keeping it delicious and exciting! Enjoy!

This pasta salad is not only refreshing but also versatile; you can add other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Enjoy your delicious pasta salad!