pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes

Pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes is a classic dish that's sure to be a hit at any gathering. It's easy to make and can be customized to your taste. Whether you're looking for an easy side dish, a quick lunch, or a healthy dinner option, this pasta salad is the perfect choice.

To make the perfect pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Start with a pound of your favorite type of pasta. We recommend using a rotini or penne for this dish. You'll also need two cups of diced cucumbers and two cups of diced tomatoes. To give the salad a bit of zing, you'll want to add a tablespoon of minced garlic, one teaspoon of oregano, and a half teaspoon of salt.

Once you have all of your ingredients gathered, you can start cooking. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop it from cooking.

While the pasta is cooking, dice the cucumbers and tomatoes. In a separate bowl, mix the garlic, oregano, and salt together. Add the cucumbers and tomatoes to the bowl and mix until everything is evenly coated.

Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it and rinse it with cold water. Add the pasta to the bowl with the cucumbers and tomatoes and mix everything together. You can serve the pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes immediately or let it chill in the fridge for an hour or two before serving.

Tips for Making Perfect Pasta Salad with Cucumbers and Tomatoes

To make the perfect pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to cook the pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won't hold up well in the salad.

Second, be sure to use a good quality olive oil. The olive oil will add flavor and help to coat the pasta and vegetables.

Finally, be sure to use fresh ingredients. Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes will make a world of difference in the flavor and texture of the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Once the pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes is ready, you can serve it as is or with a few additions. For a light lunch or dinner, add some cooked chicken or tuna for an extra boost of protein. You can also add some feta cheese or olives for a salty and tangy flavor.

If you're looking for a side dish to serve with a larger meal, this pasta salad is a great option. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, roasted vegetables, or a hearty salad.

Variations

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to your tastes. For an Italian twist, add some salami, pepperoni, or Parmesan cheese. If you're looking for a Mediterranean flavor, add some feta cheese, olives, or artichoke hearts. You can also add some cooked vegetables, like zucchini, squash, or bell peppers, for an extra pop of color and flavor.

For a creamy twist, add some Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the salad. This will give the salad a creamy texture and help it to stay together.

Storing and Reheating

This pasta salad with cucumbers and tomatoes will stay good in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat it, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for one to two minutes. You can also place it in an oven-safe dish and bake it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.