Save A vibrant, tangy pasta salad bursting with crunchy dill pickles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, herbaceous dressing—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or shells)
- Vegetables: 1 cup dill pickles, chopped (about 4 large pickles), 1 cup celery, finely diced (2 stalks), 1 cup red bell pepper, diced (1 medium), 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Cheese: 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced or shredded
- Dressing: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tbsp pickle juice (from the jar), 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Additional chopped dill, Sliced pickles
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped dill pickles, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 6:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with extra dill and sliced pickles if desired.
Save Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Chefs knife, Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise—may contain eggs). Contains eggs (mayonnaise). Gluten (from pasta). For gluten-free: use gluten-free pasta. For egg-free: use eggless mayonnaise. Always check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 Total Fat: 20 g Carbohydrates: 30 g Protein: 9 g
Save This dill pickle chopped pasta salad is perfect for easy meals—quick to make and full of fresh, crunchy flavors.
Recipe Guide
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or shells hold the dressing well and provide a pleasant texture.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld. It can be made a day ahead for best taste.
- → How can I add extra crunch?
Including chopped cucumber adds a fresh, crisp bite enhancing overall texture.
- → Are there easy substitutions for a lighter version?
Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative.
- → Is it possible to make this vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese substitutes to enjoy a vegan variation.
- → How should the salad be served?
Well chilled, garnished with extra dill and sliced pickles for added flavor and visual appeal.