Cucumber and Tomato Pasta Salad
Tired of boring salads that feel like sad, wilted lettuce? This cucumber and tomato pasta salad is crisp, refreshing, and actually worth eating. Juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a tangy, herb-packed dressing. It’s simple, fresh, and so easy that even the kitchen-challenged can make it. Whether you need a quick side dish or a light lunch, this salad delivers. Plus, it gets better as it sits, making leftovers a dream. Pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it solo—it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Cucumber and Tomato Pasta Salad
A light, crisp, and refreshing pasta salad made with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a tangy herb dressing.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta holds dressing like a champ
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (sweet and juicy)
- 1 cup cucumber diced (extra crunch factor)
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced (adds a little bite)
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled (salty and creamy)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (adds brightness)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil because dry pasta is sad
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar for that tangy kick
- 1 clove garlic minced (because flavor matters)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard keeps the dressing from separating
- ½ tsp dried oregano adds depth
- ½ tsp salt season properly!
- ¼ tsp black pepper a little heat never hurts
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Chop the veggies—slice tomatoes, dice cucumbers, and thinly slice the onion.
- Whisk together the dressing—olive oil, vinegar, garlic, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta, veggies, and feta cheese in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Let it chill for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for extra freshness.
- Enjoy cold or at room temperature—either way, it won’t last long.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin C: 18%
- Vitamin K: 15%
- Folate: 12%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 8%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a full meal.
- Swap feta for mozzarella pearls for a milder flavor.
- Use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a brighter taste.
- Make it ahead—the flavors get better over time.
- Serve with toasted pita or garlic bread for extra deliciousness.
