Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad

The summer I discovered everything bagel seasoning was the same summer my sister hosted weekly porch dinners. Someone brought this pasta salad and I honestly couldnt stop eating it. Something about that seasoning blend on cool creamy pasta just works in ways that surprised me completely.

I made this for a friends birthday potluck last July and watched three different people ask for the recipe. The best part was seeing the look on their faces when I told them the secret ingredient was just everything bagel seasoning from the grocery store. Sometimes the simplest additions make the biggest impact.

Ingredients

• 225 g small shell pasta: Those tiny curves catch the dressing and seasoning in every single bite which is why shell shape matters here more than you might think
• 1 tsp salt for pasta water: Salting the water aggressively means the pasta itself absorbs flavor instead of just wearing it on the surface
• 2 cups English cucumber diced: English cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds so they stay crisp longer without becoming watery or mushy
• 2 green onions thinly sliced: These add a mild onion flavor that complements the seasoning blend without overpowering everything else
• 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped: Fresh dill brings this bright almost citrusy freshness that cuts through the creamy dressing beautifully
• 120 ml sour cream: This creates the creamy base with a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the everything bagel seasoning
• 60 ml mayonnaise: The mayo balances the sour cream and helps the dressing cling to every shell and vegetable piece
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish and keeps the creaminess from feeling too heavy
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Just enough mustard to add depth without making it taste like a mustard based salad
• 1 clove garlic minced: Fresh garlic adds this subtle kick that makes people wonder what exactly makes it so good
• ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper: Seasoning the dressing properly is crucial since the pasta absorbs flavor as it chills
• 1½ tbsp everything bagel seasoning: The star of the show that adds crunch saltiness and that addictive everything bagel flavor we all love

Instructions

Cook the shells perfectly:

Drop the pasta into a large pot of salted boiling water and cook until al dente then drain immediately and rinse under cold water until completely cool to stop the cooking process

Whisk the creamy dressing:

In your large mixing bowl combine the sour cream mayonnaise lemon juice Dijon mustard minced garlic salt and pepper whisking until completely smooth and glossy

Combine everything:

Add the cooled pasta diced cucumber sliced green onions and chopped fresh dill to the dressing then toss gently until every piece is coated

Add the magic seasoning:

Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the top and fold it in carefully so you do not crush the pasta while distributing it evenly throughout

Chill for best flavor:

Taste and adjust any seasoning if needed then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving

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My neighbor asked me to make this for her daughters graduation party and I actually got text messages days later from people I had never met asking about that pasta salad. Theres something about familiar flavors presented in a totally new way that makes people genuinely excited about food again.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to whatever you have in the fridge or whatever your family actually likes to eat. I have made countless versions based on what was available or what sounded good that particular day.

Texture Variations

Sometimes I add diced celery or radishes for extra crunch and other times I throw in some bell peppers for color and sweetness. The creaminess handles all kinds of textures beautifully so you can really play around with what appeals to you.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad has become my go to for anything summer related from pool parties to casual weeknight dinners. It pairs with literally everything and somehow feels appropriate whether it is a fancy brunch or a backyard cookout.

• Try it topped with grilled chicken or smoked salmon for a more substantial meal
• It makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day if you manage to have any left
• The flavors actually get better after sitting for a few hours so do not be afraid to make it ahead

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There is nothing quite like watching someone take that first skeptical bite and seeing their eyes light up because this pasta salad exceeds expectations in the best possible way. It is simple satisfying and somehow feels like discovering something completely new.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long can this salad be stored?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta absorbs more dressing over time, intensifying the flavors.

→ Can I make this ahead for an event?

Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving if needed.

→ What are some add-ins to enhance texture?

Try adding ½ cup diced celery, radishes, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and freshness. These additions pair beautifully with the dill and dressing.

→ How do I make a lighter version?

Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to reduce fat content while maintaining creaminess and tangy flavor. Use reduced-fat mayonnaise as an alternative option.

→ What proteins pair well with this salad?

Serve alongside grilled chicken, smoked salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas. These proteins complement the cool, tangy flavors without overpowering the fresh dill notes.

→ Why is the pasta rinsed with cold water?

Rinsing the hot pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy. It also removes excess starch for a lighter texture in the final salad.