Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 55 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6

 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or bowtie)

• 1 cup diced cucumber

• 1/2 cup chopped celery

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill

Creamy Lemon Dill Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise

• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• Lemon zest and juice

• Dijon mustard

• Minced garlic

• Salt and pepper to taste

Set aside or chill in the fridge while prepping the vegetables.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped cucumber, celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.

2. Pour the creamy lemon dill dressing over the pasta and toss well to coat.

3. Add crumbled feta if using, and gently fold it in.

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Step 4: Chill & Serve

• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

• Serve cold, garnished with extra dill, a wedge of lemon, or additional feta.

 Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Make-Ahead Tip: Make the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store separately.

• Refreshing Leftovers: Add a splash of lemon juice or a spoon of Greek yogurt to freshen it up before serving again.

 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition will vary based on pasta type, dressing ingredients, and add-ins.