Description
This refreshing Cucumber Pasta Salad combines al dente rotini pasta with crisp cucumbers and red onions, all tossed in a creamy, tangy coconut milk-based dressing infused with fresh dill and Dijon mustard. Perfect as a light, flavorful side dish or a make-ahead salad for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 16 oz. rotini pasta
- 2 cups sliced cucumbers (about 1/8″ thick)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing
- 1 (13.5 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. After draining, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the canned full-fat coconut milk, white wine vinegar, olive oil, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and season with generous pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper until well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onions. Pour the prepared dressing over the top.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the flavorful dressing. Garnish with additional fresh dill. Serve immediately or refrigerate and add dressing just before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Use canned full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy dressing; carton coconut milk is too thin and lacks flavor.
- The dressing thickens upon sitting; you can thin it with extra coconut milk, olive oil, vinegar, or water as needed, adjusting seasoning afterward.
- This pasta salad is great for making ahead, but add the dressing to the noodles only a few minutes before serving to maintain freshness.
- Dressing can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 5 days; stir well before use as separation will occur.
