Creamy Tomato Cucumber Pasta Salad 🌞🍅🥒
When the sun is shining and temperatures climb, there’s nothing quite like a chilled pasta salad to cool you down. This Creamy Tomato Cucumber Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a creamy, herby dressing that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
It’s quick to prepare, travels well, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even stands on its own as a light summer meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Refreshing & light – the cucumber and tomato keep every bite crisp and juicy.
- Easy to make ahead – perfect for meal prep, BBQs, or picnics.
- Customizable – swap in your favorite pasta shapes, add olives, or try goat cheese instead of feta.
- Family-friendly – creamy, flavorful, and universally loved!
Ingredients 🛒
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Let cool completely.
2️⃣ Prep the Vegetables
While pasta cools, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Salt & pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Toss Everything Together
Add cooled pasta to the bowl of veggies. Pour dressing on top and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
Before serving, sprinkle crumbled feta over the top and garnish with basil or parsley for freshness.
Tips & Variations 🌟
- Make it Greek-inspired: Add kalamata olives, chopped bell peppers, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Lighter option: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to cut calories without losing creaminess.
- Protein boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta—rotini holds up really well in cold salads.
Storage 🍴
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle a bit.
Perfect Pairings 🍽️
This salad shines alongside:
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Burgers and hot dogs
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Fresh pita bread and hummus
✨ Cool, creamy, and bursting with summer flavors, this Tomato Cucumber Pasta Salad is about to become your go-to side dish for all warm-weather meals!