Leftovers with my little
Leftovers with my little is a easy Italian recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Emily Mariko on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 35 min
Cost: $3.00 total, $1.50 per serving
Ingredients
- 200 g Dry Pasta (any short shape like fusilli or farfalle works best)
- 1 medium Cucumber (seedless, thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin for best flavor)
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, optional garnish)
Instructions
Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dry pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: boiling
Drain and Cool
Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds to stop cooking and cool it down.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Cucumber
While the pasta cooks, slice the cucumber thinly on a cutting board using a chef's knife. If the cucumber is very watery, pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
Time: PT3M
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cucumber slices, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Finish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color. Serve immediately at room temperature or chill for 10 minutes for a colder salad.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 9 g
- Carbohydrates
- 55 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: vegetarian
Allergens: wheat (gluten)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Dry Pasta: gluten‑free pasta
- Instead of Cucumber: zucchini (thinly sliced)
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil, avocado oil
- Instead of Lemon Juice: lime juice, white wine vinegar (1 tsp)
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: fresh basil
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking pasta al dente and rinsing it quickly to stop the cooking process.
- Ensuring cucumber slices are dry to avoid a watery salad.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a short‑shaped pasta like farfalle or rotini to trap the cucumber pieces.
- Add a zest of lemon for extra brightness without extra acidity.
Troubleshooting
Pasta is overcooked and mushy.
Cook pasta for 1–2 minutes less than the package time and rinse immediately in cold water.
Salad is watery.
Pat cucumber slices dry and consider adding a pinch of extra salt to draw out moisture before mixing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the pasta and cucumber up to step 4, then refrigerate. Add lemon juice and herbs just before serving to keep flavors fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cucumber pasta salad in Italian cuisine?
Cucumber pasta salad is a modern, summer‑time adaptation of traditional Italian cold pasta dishes (pasta fredda) that were originally created to use up leftover pasta. The addition of crisp cucumber reflects a contemporary, health‑focused twist popular in Western home cooking.
What are the traditional regional variations of cold pasta salads in Italy?
In Italy, cold pasta salads vary by region: the north often includes peas, ham, and a creamy mayo base, while the south may feature tomatoes, olives, and a simple olive‑oil dressing. Cucumber is less common historically but has become popular in recent fusion versions.
How is cucumber pasta salad traditionally served in Italian summer gatherings?
It is typically served chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats, focaccia, or fresh salads, allowing diners to enjoy a light, refreshing bite between richer courses.
What occasions or celebrations is cucumber pasta salad associated with in Italian culture?
Cold pasta salads are popular at picnics, outdoor barbecues, and family gatherings during the warm months, especially during festivals like Ferragosto.
What authentic traditional ingredients for Italian cold pasta salad differ from this cucumber version?
Traditional Italian cold pasta salads often use ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, capers, and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, whereas this version swaps those for cucumber and lemon for a fresher profile.
What other Italian dishes pair well with cucumber pasta salad?
It pairs nicely with grilled chicken or fish, Italian sausages, bruschetta, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cucumber pasta salad?
Common mistakes include overcooking the pasta, not rinsing it to stop the cooking process, and using a watery cucumber without drying it, which can make the salad soggy.
Why does this recipe use a quick rinse of the pasta instead of tossing it hot with the dressing?
Rinsing cools the pasta instantly, preventing it from continuing to cook and from absorbing the dressing too quickly, which helps maintain a light texture and keeps the cucumber crisp.
Can I make cucumber pasta salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cucumber up to the mixing stage, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the cucumber pasta salad is done?
The pasta should be al dente and glossy from the olive oil, while the cucumber slices should be thin, bright green, and still crisp. The salad should have a light, speckled appearance with a subtle lemon sheen.
What does the YouTube channel Emily Mariko specialize in?
The YouTube channel Emily Mariko focuses on simple, minimalist home cooking videos that often feature quick, budget‑friendly meals and meal‑prep ideas, presented in a calm, ASMR‑style format.
How does the YouTube channel Emily Mariko's approach to cooking differ from other food channels?
Emily Mariko's approach emphasizes ultra‑simple ingredient lists, short preparation times, and a soothing visual style, contrasting with many channels that use elaborate recipes, heavy editing, or high‑energy presentation.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
