Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is one of those sides that grabs your attention right away. It’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with that unmistakable pickle flavor in every bite. If you’re someone who always reaches for an extra pickle on the plate, this is going to be hard to resist.
What makes this pasta salad so good is the balance. The tender pasta soaks up a creamy, slightly zippy dressing, while chopped dill pickles add crunch and a punch of acidity that keeps it from feeling heavy. It’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or just keeping in the fridge for easy lunches during the week.
Helpful Tips
- Use plenty of pickle juice: Don’t skip it. A splash mixed into the dressing boosts the flavor and ties everything together. Add more to the salad itself to boost the flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it just al dente so it holds up well after mixing with the dressing.
- Chill before serving: Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour so the flavors can come together and the pasta can absorb the dressing.
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Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta cooked and drained
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese cubed
- 1/2 cup dill pickles sliced
- 2 tablespoons red onion chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon BOTH salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cheese, pickles, and onion.
- In a jar, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Shake well to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Laura is a home cook, with 25 years experience behind the stove, who spends an extraordinary amount of time in the kitchen cooking. She loves making new recipes and finding wonderful new things to eat, both at home or abroad. She spends a lot of time researching, crafting, and perfecting her recipes.