Corn, Cucumber, and Pasta Salad (Made Two Ways)
Recipe: #14228
September 10, 2014
Categories: Salads, Vegetable Salad, Side Dishes, Ditalini, Cucumber, Corn, Baby Shower, Brunch, July 4th, Labor Day, Mothers Day, Picnic, Potluck, Gluten-Free, Low Carbohydrate, No Eggs, Vegetarian, more
"This is something I grew up with; and, always a favorite. Now, I have updated it a bit, using fresh herbs, adding Goat or Feta cheese - but, it is still delicious. My Mom actually use rice at times; but, usually elbow macaroni. I like to use Ditalini pasta; but, back then, we didn't have the choices like we do today. This is a great summer salad; and, perfect for a pot luck, BBQ, picnic, etc."
Ingredients
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- Dressing #1
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- Dressing #2
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Nutritional
- Serving Size: 1 (176.9 g)
- Calories 264.4
- Total Fat - 12.2 g
- Saturated Fat - 3.2 g
- Cholesterol - 11.9 mg
- Sodium - 232.2 mg
- Total Carbohydrate - 34.4 g
- Dietary Fiber - 5.9 g
- Sugars - 3 g
- Protein - 8.2 g
- Calcium - 160.8 mg
- Iron - 1.1 mg
- Vitamin C - 35.6 mg
- Thiamin - 0.1 mg
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Pasta ... Cook the pasta according to package directions in plenty of salted water. Drain the pasta well, rinse, and cool. You want the pasta completely cooled before making the salad.
Step 2
Cucumber ... I like to use an English (seedless) cucumber; but, I still lightly scoop out the seeds. If using a 'classic' cucumber, remove all of the seeds. Once peeled, cut in half lengthwise; then, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Then, dice the cucumber, and lay on a plate lined with a paper towel to dry.
Step 3
Dressing ... You can use either dressing; both are delicious. Mix the ingredients in a small bowl; and set to the side. Note: I'm not the biggest fan of Miracle Whip; but, it seems to work best in this dressing. If you don't have Miracle Whip, use mayonnaise and a little sugar. Miracle Whip tends to be a bit sweeter.
Step 4
Salad ... Add the cucumber, corn, celery, scallions, cooled pasta, mint, basil, parsley, and the dressing to a large bowl and toss. The cheese is optional; but, I really enjoy - especially with Dressing #2. Although, it is good with either dressing. If you decide to add the cheese, lightly toss once more, and season again with salt and pepper if necessary. I tend to dress this salad lightly; you could always make more dressing if you like a 'wetter' dressed salad.
Step 5
Serve and ENJOY! ... As mentioned, a perfect potluck, picnic, BBQ, or party food dish; and, great to make ahead. It was a summer staple at our house, especially with the garden vegetables.
Tips
No special items needed.