Cucumber Crunch Pasta Salad

Last summer my neighbor brought this pasta salad to our block party and I found myself going back for thirds. The everything bagel seasoning was such a clever twist I had to ask for the recipe right there. Now it's become my go to whenever I need something that feels special but comes together in minutes.

I made this for a last minute potluck when my fridge was nearly empty and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table. My friend Sarah actually asked if I'd cater her wedding just so she could have it again. The best part is how the flavors keep getting better after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients

• 225 g (8 oz) small shell pasta: Those little cups hold onto the dressing beautifully and each bite delivers the perfect pasta to veggie ratio
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water so the shells absorb flavor from the inside out
• 2 cups cucumber, diced: English cucumbers work best here with their thin skin and minimal seeds providing that satisfying crunch
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced: These add a mild onion flavor that wont overpower the fresh dill
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped: Fresh dill makes all the difference here bringing bright aromatic notes that dried herbs just cant match
• 120 ml (½ cup) sour cream: Creates that luscious creamy base while adding a lovely tang
• 60 ml (¼ cup) mayonnaise: Balances the sour cream and helps the dressing cling to every shell
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the entire salad and cuts through the rich creamy elements
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds just enough subtle sharpness to keep things interesting
• 1 clove garlic, minced: One clove is perfect it whispers rather than shouts
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors without making the salad taste salty
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Provides a gentle background warmth
• 1½ tbsp everything bagel seasoning: The star of the show that makes this pasta salad unforgettable

Instructions

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

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Cook the pasta to perfection:

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

Whisk up the dreamy dressing:

In a large mixing bowl combine sour cream mayonnaise lemon juice Dijon garlic salt and pepper whisking until silky smooth and well incorporated

Bring it all together:

Add the cooled pasta diced cucumber sliced green onions and chopped fresh dill to the bowl then toss gently until every shell is coated in that creamy dressing

Add the magic seasoning:

Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the top and fold it in gently until its evenly distributed throughout the salad

Let it rest and shine:

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

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

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This became my daughters most requested lunchbox item last summer and I started making double batches just to keep up. Theres something so satisfying about watching people try it for the first time and seeing their eyes light up at that everything bagel crunch.

Make It Your Own

I love throwing in diced celery or radishes when I want extra texture and they both add a lovely fresh bite that plays well with the dill. Sometimes Ill add halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color especially when serving this to a crowd.

Lighten It Up

Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute for sour cream if youre watching calories and it actually adds a nice protein boost. The flavor shifts slightly but in a delicious way that keeps you coming back for more.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad shines alongside grilled chicken or smoked salmon for a complete meal that feels elegant yet effortless. It holds up beautifully at picnics and potlucks without getting soggy like some other pasta salads tend to do.

• Bring it to your next summer BBQ and watch it become the new crowd favorite
• Pack it for weekday lunches knowing it tastes even better on day two
• Keep those ingredients stocked because youll want to make this all season long

Track cooking times accurately for baking, boiling, roasting, and multitasking recipes without overcooking.

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Theres nothing quite like finding a recipe that becomes part of your regular rotation and this ones earned its permanent spot in my summer lineup.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the salad up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a lighter alternative with similar tangy flavor. You can use equal parts Greek yogurt for sour cream, or mix half and half for a creamier texture.

→ How do I add more crunch?

Consider adding diced celery, sliced radishes, or toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture. Keep these additions separate if storing for more than a day to maintain crispness.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is completely vegetarian. However, check that your mayonnaise and dressing ingredients are vegetarian-certified if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.

→ What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or pan-seared shrimp complement this salad beautifully. For a vegetarian option, add roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for protein.

→ Can I adjust the seasoning?

Absolutely. Taste before serving and adjust lemon juice for tang, garlic for depth, or everything bagel seasoning for intensity. The dressing is very forgiving and adaptable to personal preference.