Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a tangy, creamy, and refreshingly unique dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or summer barbecues. With crunchy dill pickles, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a delightful twist on classic pasta salads that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells work well)
• 1 cup dill pickles, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup pickle juice

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Toss the pasta with 1/4 cup pickle juice and set aside for 5–10 minutes to soak up the flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced pickles, red onion, cheddar cheese, and fresh dill.
2. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Before serving, give it a quick stir and garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve chilled as a side dish or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be made a day in advance. Add a little extra dressing if it seems dry after sitting overnight.

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowties works well. Choose one that holds dressing nicely.

2. Can I substitute the mayonnaise or sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or a vegan mayo and sour cream for a dairy-free version.

3. What if I don’t have fresh dill?

Dried dill can be used instead, but reduce the amount to 1–2 teaspoons as dried herbs are more concentrated.

4. Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Try adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, bacon bits, or even diced cucumbers for extra texture and flavor.

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