Save My neighbor showed up at my door with a giant bowl of this last July, and I ate it straight from the fridge at midnight. The crunch of cucumber against soft pasta, that hit of everything bagel seasoning, it was like eating a deli sandwich in salad form. I made her write down the recipe on a napkin right there. Now I keep a batch in my fridge every week during warm months, and it disappears faster than I can make it.
I brought this to a potluck once and three people asked if I catered it. One friend scraped the bowl clean with a serving spoon when she thought no one was looking. The secret is letting it sit in the fridge long enough for the dill and garlic to really wake up. I learned that the hard way after serving it too soon the first time, it was good, but it wasnt great until it had time to chill and think about itself.
Ingredients
- Small shell pasta: Tiny shells are perfect because they catch all that creamy dressing in their little pockets, and they are easier to eat than long noodles in a cold salad.
- Cucumber: English cucumbers are my go to here because they have fewer seeds and stay crisp longer, plus you do not have to peel them.
- Green onions: They add a mild bite without overpowering the dill, and they look pretty scattered throughout the bowl.
- Fresh dill: This is not the place for dried dill, the fresh stuff smells like summer and makes the whole salad come alive.
- Sour cream: It gives the dressing that tangy richness, but Greek yogurt works if you want to feel a little healthier.
- Mayonnaise: Smooth, creamy, and it helps the dressing cling to every piece of pasta without being too heavy.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best, it brightens everything up and cuts through the richness.
- Dijon mustard: Just a teaspoon adds depth and a little sharpness that makes the dressing more interesting.
- Garlic: One clove is enough, it mellows as it sits and does not overpower the other flavors.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is what makes people ask for the recipe, it adds sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt all at once.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil the shells in well salted water until they are just al dente, then drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. You want them cool to the touch before they meet the dressing, or the sour cream will turn runny.
- Mix the dressing:
- Whisk together the sour cream, mayo, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper until it is smooth and creamy. Taste it now, if it needs more tang, add a squeeze more lemon.
- Combine everything:
- Toss the cooled pasta with the diced cucumber, green onions, and fresh dill in a big bowl, then pour the dressing over and fold gently. You want every shell coated but not smashed.
- Add the seasoning:
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning on top and fold it in until it is evenly distributed. Do not dump it all in one spot or you will get bites that are too salty.
- Chill and serve:
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, this is when the magic happens. The flavors meld, the pasta soaks up the dressing, and it becomes impossible to stop eating.
Save My friend once told me this salad reminded her of sitting on her grandmas porch in the summer, even though her grandma never made it. I think it is the dill and the cold crunch, it just feels like a memory you want to have. Now every time I make it, I think about how food can trick you into feeling nostalgic for something that never happened, and I love that.
How to Store and Reheat
This salad keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, though it rarely lasts that long. The cucumbers will start to release water after that, so if you are meal prepping, add them fresh each day. Do not freeze this, the pasta and dressing will separate and turn mushy, and no one wants that. Just eat it cold straight from the fridge, maybe with a fork while standing at the counter.
Variations to Try
I have added diced celery for extra crunch, and it was great. Radishes give it a peppery bite if you are feeling adventurous. Some people stir in smoked salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a full meal, and I have done both with zero regrets. You can also swap the shells for rotini or bow ties, just pick a shape that holds onto the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, or anything hot off the barbecue. I have served it alongside pulled pork sandwiches and it was the perfect cool contrast. It also works as a light lunch on its own, especially if you add a protein. Bring it to a picnic, a potluck, or just keep it in your fridge for when you need something quick and satisfying.
- Serve it in a big bowl with a wooden spoon and let people help themselves.
- Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for presentation.
- Pair it with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer on a hot day.
Save This is one of those recipes that makes you look like you tried harder than you did. Keep the ingredients on hand and you will always have something to bring to a gathering or eat when it is too hot to cook.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually improves when made 2-4 hours ahead. You can assemble it completely and refrigerate until serving. It keeps well for up to 2 days in an airtight container, making it perfect for meal prep and entertaining.
- → What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent lighter alternative that provides similar tanginess and creaminess. Use equal amounts as a direct swap. For a dairy-free version, try cashew cream or coconut yogurt blended with lemon juice.
- → How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta to al dente according to package directions, then immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents overcooking and helps maintain that pleasant tender texture that contrasts with the crisp cucumber.
- → What vegetables work well as additions?
Diced celery, radishes, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes add wonderful texture variety. Keep raw vegetables stored separately and add them just before serving to maintain maximum crispness and prevent sogginess.
- → What proteins pair best with this salad?
Grilled chicken, smoked salmon, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent protein additions. The tangy dressing and fresh flavors complement light proteins particularly well, making this a versatile base for satisfying main dish salads.
- → Is this salad suitable for dietary restrictions?
This salad is vegetarian and can easily accommodate most diets. For vegan, substitute plant-based mayo and sour cream alternatives. Those with gluten sensitivity can use gluten-free pasta. Always verify that your everything bagel seasoning doesn't contain allergens for your specific needs.