Save to Pinterest The first time I brought this pasta salad to a neighborhood block party, my neighbor Sarah actually asked for the recipe before she even finished her first serving. She said the everything bagel seasoning made it taste like something you would order at a fancy cafe, but better. Now every summer gathering includes a request for what we call that crunch salad.
Last summer I made this for a potluck at work and someone accidentally took the entire bowl home thinking it was theirs. I had to laugh when they texted me asking why their husband was raving about pasta salad they did not remember making. It has become my go to dish for any occasion that requires feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- Small shell pasta: Those little curves catch the dressing in all the right places and feel satisfying to eat
- Salt: Salting the pasta water is non negotiable because it is the only chance to season the pasta itself
- English cucumber: Fewer seeds and thinner skin mean you can dice it without peeling and still get perfect crunch
- Green onions: They add just enough bite without overpowering the fresh dill
- Fresh dill: This bright herb makes the whole salad taste like it came straight from a garden
- Sour cream: Creates that tangy backbone that keeps the dressing from feeling too heavy
- Mayonnaise: Balances the sour cream with just enough richness to make the coating cling
- Lemon juice: Cuts through the creamy elements and wakes up all the other flavors
- Dijon mustard: A secret ingredient that adds depth without making it taste like mustard
- Garlic: One clove is plenty to give it background warmth that people notice but cannot quite place
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is what makes people ask what you put in the salad
Instructions
- Cook the shells:
- Boil the pasta in generously salted water until it has that perfect bite then rinse it under cold water until it feels completely cool to the touch
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine sour cream mayonnaise lemon juice Dijon garlic salt and pepper until the mixture is silky smooth and no lumps remain
- Combine everything:
- Fold in the cooled pasta cucumber green onions and dill letting them get cozy with that creamy dressing
- Add the magic:
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the top and gently fold until every bite promises some of that seasoned crunch
- Chill out:
- Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes because this salad tastes infinitely better after the flavors have had time to become friends
Save to Pinterest My aunt started keeping a container of this in her fridge all summer long just for quick lunches. She said something about having something this delicious and ready to eat made her feel like she had her life together even on chaotic days.
Making It Your Own
I have discovered that adding diced radishes or bell peppers gives you even more texture and color. The recipe is forgiving enough that you can play with the vegetable mix and still end up with something incredible.
Perfect Pairings
This pasta salad holds its own next to grilled meats or seafood. The cool creaminess balances beautifully with anything hot off the grill which is probably why it disappears first at every barbecue.
Make Ahead Magic
The flavors actually improve overnight as the seasoning works its way through the dressing. I always make it the night before a big event knowing it will taste even better when guests arrive.
- Wait to add the extra vegetables until right before serving if you are making it more than a day ahead
- Bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving because the flavors really pop when it is not ice cold
- Keep a small container of extra everything bagel seasoning handy for a fresh sprinkle right before serving
Save to Pinterest Every time I make this recipe I am reminded that the best dishes are often the simplest ones done with love. Enjoy watching empty bowls come back to your kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should I chill the pasta salad before serving?
Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. The salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
- → Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and toss gently before serving. The pasta absorbs the dressing beautifully overnight.
- → What can I substitute for the everything bagel seasoning?
Mix poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt. Alternatively, use Everything Seasoning blend from your spice aisle.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook shells until al dente, rinse immediately under cold water to stop cooking, and drain thoroughly before tossing with the dressing.
- → Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
Yes, grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or chickpeas pair wonderfully. The creamy dressing complements added proteins perfectly.