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Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Amanda Peterson

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

A creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive pasta salad loaded with dill pickles, fresh dill, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a simple make‑ahead side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta (rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
  • 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup celery, finely chopped (optional)
  • 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.5 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 0.25 cup pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot For cooking pasta
  • Colander For draining pasta
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl For dressing
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Shake off excess water and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped pickles, red onion, celery (if using), and cheddar cheese (if using). Pour dressing over the top.
  4. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Fold in fresh dill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
  5. Before serving, stir salad. If dry, add a splash of pickle juice or more mayonnaise. Garnish with additional fresh dill and pickle slices. Serve cold.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a splash of pickle juice or additional mayonnaise before serving.