Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad – A Light, Bright, and One-Hand-Friendly Dinner
Yesterday, our cousins came over with their brand-new baby — their second child. If you’ve ever had a newborn in the family, you know that dinnertime can be tricky. With one arm often occupied holding a little bundle of joy, you need food that’s easy to eat, delicious, and comforting. That’s how this creamy lemon dill pasta salad was born — a dish that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for both busy parents and casual get-togethers. 🍋🌿
When I served this pasta salad, our cousins went crazy for it. I knew instantly I had to share the recipe. Honestly, I could barely believe how well it turned out, especially since I came up with it on the fly. And before anyone thinks I should have taken food to their house instead (because yes, new parents usually appreciate that!), Cousin Grace assured us they love going somewhere to eat — no cleanup, no fuss, just a happy evening before heading home for bath time and bed. Win-win!
Why This Recipe Works
- Light and fresh flavors – Lemon and dill brighten every bite.
- Creamy yet not heavy – The dressing is tangy and luscious without being overly rich.
- One-hand friendly – Perfect for parents juggling babies or anyone who needs a low-effort meal.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or farfalle work well)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, zest, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the pasta and toss until everything is well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Expert Chef Tips
Chef Bobby Flay recommends roasting your cherry tomatoes in olive oil and a pinch of salt before adding them for a sweeter, deeper flavor. Gordon Ramsay suggests using a touch of Dijon mustard in the dressing for added complexity. And Ina Garten says, “Always use fresh dill — the flavor is unbeatable.”
Health Tips & Safety Considerations
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly before chopping.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
- Keep chilled if serving outdoors to prevent spoilage.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta | 1 cup | 200 | Carbs, Protein |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp | 180 | Healthy Fats |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | 4 | Vitamin C |
| Dill | 1 tbsp | 4 | Antioxidants |
| Cucumber | 1/2 cup | 8 | Hydration, Fiber |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1/2 cup | 15 | Vitamin A, Lycopene |
FAQs About Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad
- Can I make this pasta salad the day before? Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
- Can I use dried dill? You can, but fresh dill offers the best flavor.
- What pasta shapes work best? Short shapes like rotini, farfalle, or penne work perfectly.
- How long does it last in the fridge? Up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container.
- Can I make this vegan? Yes, use vegan mayo and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
- Can I add protein? Absolutely — try grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- What if I don’t like mayo? Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Can I freeze this? Not recommended; pasta salads don’t thaw well.
- Is this gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Can I serve it warm? This salad is best served chilled, but you can serve it at room temperature.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Try our Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken for another bright, citrusy dish.
- Pair it with Roasted Vegetable Medley for a colorful and healthy meal.
- Cool off with Summer Berry Parfait for dessert.
Next time you need a fresh, one-hand-friendly dish for guests — or just a quick, satisfying lunch — give this creamy lemon dill pasta salad a try. And if you have leftovers, don’t be surprised if you find yourself eating them for breakfast. 😉
