Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a tangy, creamy, and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of pickles with the heartiness of pasta. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a unique side dish for any meal. With a delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s a must-try for pickle lovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with tangy pickle flavor
- Creamy and satisfying yet refreshing
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect for gatherings and meal prep
- Customizable with different add-ins
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta (such as rotini or macaroni)
- Dill pickles (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (cubed)
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Pickle juice
- Dijon mustard
- Fresh dill
- Green onions
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the dressing.
- Add the cooked pasta, chopped pickles, cubed cheddar cheese, fresh dill, and green onions to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add diced cooked chicken or crumbled bacon.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with cauliflower florets.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but if desired, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, bowtie, or shells will work well.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
At least 30 minutes, but longer refrigeration enhances the flavors.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What type of pickles should I use?
Dill pickles work best, but you can experiment with sweet or spicy pickles.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier twist.
How do I keep the pasta from getting too soft?
Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking and avoid overcooking.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and replace sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives.
What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.
Can I add more veggies to the salad?
Definitely! Try adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Not with pasta, but you can swap it with cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a keto version.
Conclusion
Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta is a tangy, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and highly customizable, this salad will be a hit with pickle lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Try it for your next gathering or meal prep session!
PrintDill Pickle Salad with Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, tangy, and crunchy pasta salad packed with dill pickles, cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini or elbow pasta
- 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped pickles, cheddar cheese, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Pour the dressing over and toss to coat.
- Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
- Add-Ins: Try bacon bits, shredded chicken, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Make it Lighter: Swap mayo and sour cream for Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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