Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 3 cups Bowtie Pasta, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup English Cucumber, chopped
• 1 cup Tomatoes, halved (preferably Flavor Bomb Tomatoes)
• ½ cup Feta Cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan, grated
• 1 cup Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup Chives, chopped
• 1 packet Italian Dressing Mix (0.7 oz packet)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• ¼ cup White Vinegar
• 3 tablespoons Water
• ½ cup Olive Oil
• 1-2 tablespoons Fresh Dill, chopped
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to cool and drain well. Transfer to a large salad bowl.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Chop the English cucumber into bite-sized pieces and halve the tomatoes.
3. Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool before crumbling.
4. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix with olive oil, mayonnaise, white vinegar, and water. Whisk until well blended. Stir in the chopped fresh dill, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the Salad: To the bowl with the pasta, add the chopped cucumber, halved tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, and chives. Gently toss to combine.
6. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until evenly coated.
7. Final Touches: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more dill if desired.
8. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving.