Best Cucumber Pasta Salad

Name: Best Cucumber Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (your choice); 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Jena Ellison

Update : March 7, 2026

Bowl of best cucumber pasta salad with fresh vegetables and dressing

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why make this recipe

This cucumber pasta salad is quick, fresh, and easy. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. It tastes light and bright. It works well for warm days, picnics, or quick dinners.

introduction

This salad mixes pasta, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta. A simple oil and vinegar dressing ties it all together. You can make it in under 30 minutes plus chill time. It stays good in the fridge and travels well for potlucks.

how to make Best Cucumber Pasta Salad

Follow the steps below. Cook the pasta, chop the vegetables, mix the dressing, and toss everything together. Chill a little so the flavors blend.

Ingredients :

8 oz pasta (your choice), 1 cucumber, diced, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/4 red onion, diced, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy at summer picnics or potlucks!

how to serve Best Cucumber Pasta Salad

Serve cold or at cool room temperature. Use a large bowl and toss just before serving. Add extra parsley or a little more feta on top for color. Serve with grilled chicken or a simple green salad for a full meal.

how to store Best Cucumber Pasta Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. If the salad gets dry, add a splash of olive oil or a little more vinegar and mix.

tips to make Best Cucumber Pasta Salad

Cook pasta al dente so it holds up in the salad.
Cool the pasta before mixing to keep the vegetables fresh.
Taste the dressing and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Use seedless cucumber or scoop seeds out if you want less water in the salad.
Chill at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend well.

variation (if any)

Make it dairy-free: skip feta or use a plant-based feta.
Add protein: add grilled chicken, canned chickpeas, or sliced turkey (no pork).
Add crunch: mix in chopped bell pepper or toasted pine nuts.
Make it herby: add fresh basil or dill instead of parsley.

FAQs

Q: Can I use any kind of pasta?
A: Yes. Small shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it a few hours ahead and chill. It can stay good for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Q: Can I skip the feta?
A: Yes. You can leave it out or use a vegan cheese for a dairy-free salad.

Q: How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
A: Drain the pasta well and cool it before mixing. Use firm tomatoes and seed or drain cucumbers if needed.

Q: Is this salad vegetarian?
A: Yes. The recipe is vegetarian without any meat.

Conclusion

For a creamier version with similar flavors, see Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad – Spend With Pennies. For more pasta salad ideas and dressings, check The Best Italian Pasta Salad Recipe – To Simply Inspire.