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 A refreshing, easy-to-make salad perfect for summer gatherings.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or shells hold dressing well and complement the chopped ingredients.
- → Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, chilling for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor melding, and it can be made a day ahead for convenience.
- → How do the dill pickles affect the flavor?
Dill pickles add a tangy, crunchy bite that contrasts nicely with creamy dressing and fresh vegetables.
- → Is there a recommended substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used to lighten the dressing while maintaining creaminess and tang.
- → How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based mayonnaise, sour cream alternatives, and vegan cheese to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
- → What garnishes complement the dish?
Additional chopped fresh dill and sliced pickles add extra flavor and visual appeal.