Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

This tangy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is everything you want for a summer barbecue or easy weeknight side. Bright fresh dill and crunchy pickles wake up the creamy dressing, and extra-sharp cheddar brings it all together. I love how this comes together fast but never fails to get rave reviews at every picnic.

I started making this for poolside dinners each summer and now friends ask for it every time we get together

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: brings classic texture and soaks up the dressing well look for bronze cut pasta for best bite
• Large dill pickles: deliver big crunch and flavor opt for refrigerated garlic dills if possible
• Pickle juice: gives the salad its signature tang use extra for stronger pickle flavor
• Mayonnaise: creates a creamy base choose a full fat or high quality egg mayo
• Sour cream: adds coolness and richness swap in a thicker Greek yogurt if you prefer
• Fresh dill: supplies fresh herby flavor always use just-snipped dill not dried
• Garlic powder salt and pepper: balance and round out the flavors use freshly cracked black pepper for zing
• Sharp cheddar cheese: gives rich savory depth cut into small cubes for even flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil Pasta:

Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of generously salted water until just al dente which should take about 8 minutes Stir occasionally so it does not stick to the bottom Drain immediately and rinse with very cold water This stops the cooking and ensures your salad is never mushy

Chop Pickles and Cheese:

While the pasta cooks dice the pickles into small even cubes and cubed the sharp cheddar bite sized pieces let the flavors pop in every mouthful

Make the Dressing:

In a mixing bowl whisk together mayonnaise sour cream pickle juice freshly chopped dill garlic powder salt and pepper Until smooth and creamy taste and adjust salt if needed

Combine Everything:

In a large bowl mix cooled pasta diced pickles cubed cheddar gently fold in the dressing using a spatula Make sure everything is evenly coated

Chill and Serve:

Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving Cold rest allows flavors to marry and salad to thicken Serve straight from the fridge topped with extra dill if you like

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My favorite part is the fresh dill A handful of just-chopped dill added right before serving keeps everything bright I always save a little extra to sprinkle on top and my daughter calls that the magic green confetti

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge This pasta salad keeps well for up to four days and actually improves after the first day Stir before serving to loosen up the dressing

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten free pasta if serving guests with allergies Greek yogurt can easily replace half the mayo for a lighter version Try adding a handful of finely chopped celery or red onion for another layer of crunch and bite

Serving Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken veggie burgers or any picnic favorites For a fun twist serve scooped over crisp lettuce leaves or stuff it in pita for a quick lunch

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Cultural Context

Pasta salads became American picnic staples in the twentieth century and the dill pickle version is a humble nod to old fashioned deli flavors This dish brings back memories of potlucks at my grandmother’s church and every summer I feel like I give that tradition a new spin

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta until just al dente, rinse with cold water right away, and drain well before combining with the other ingredients. This helps keep the texture firm and prevents sogginess.

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, small shapes like shells or rotini work well and hold the creamy dressing and add-ins effectively. Ensure the pasta is bite-sized for best texture.

→ Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and mix everything, then chill for at least one hour. For freshest texture, add the cheese just before serving if stored overnight.

→ Are there ways to lighten the dressing?

Swap part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light sour cream for a tangy, lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

→ What additions work well for extra flavor or protein?

Diced ham, bacon, or even shredded rotisserie chicken can be stirred in for heartiness, while chopped chives or extra herbs add brightness.