Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Why Make This Recipe
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a unique and delicious dish that combines the tangy flavor of dill pickles with the comfort of pasta. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. The crunchy pickles and creamy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, which is always a bonus in the kitchen!
How to Make Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup dill pickle juice from the pickle jar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
- 1 lb. cellentani or corkscrew pasta
- 2 cups diced baby dill pickles, plus more for garnish
- 1½ cups cubed sharp cheddar cheese
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta al dente according to the package directions.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with a little cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Drain well.
- Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, onion powder, and fresh dill.
- Stir the mayonnaise mixture, dill pickles, and cheddar cheese cubes into the pasta.
- Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh dill.
How to Serve Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Serve the Dill Pickle Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature. It’s great as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. You can also enjoy it on its own for a quick lunch!
How to Store Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Tips to Make Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy in the salad.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of dill pickles and cheese based on your taste preference.
- You can add other ingredients like chopped celery or bell peppers for added crunch.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also swap in gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s actually better if you make it a few hours ahead, as the flavors will meld together.
Q: What other dressings can I use?
A: You can experiment with ranch dressing or a simple vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I use different kinds of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even crumbled feta for a twist in flavor.
