Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

This creamy dill pickle pasta salad is my ultimate summer potluck dish crispy cold pasta, tangy pickles, sharp cheddar cubes and a creamy herbed dressing that never fails to get everyone asking for seconds The salty crunch of pickles and fresh dill are the twist that set it apart from all those plain pasta salads

My family begged for this on repeat after I brought it to a backyard BBQ When my kids help chop the pickles and cheese cubes I know it will actually disappear from the bowl

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta: This spiral shape grabs onto the creamy dressing for maximum flavor If you choose another type pick one with lots of nooks for the sauce like cavatappi or bow ties
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds texture and a tangy contrast to the pickles For best flavor cube it yourself from a block so it stays firm in the salad
• Dill pickles: The star ingredient Pick cold deli style pickles for crunch and plenty of briny punch Bread and butter pickles will make the salad sweet which changes the whole flavor
• Fresh dill: For bright herbal notes Chop finely for even distribution If using dried start with a smaller amount and taste as you go
• Mayonnaise: The main source of creaminess Choose a rich brand you like the flavor of I always reach for Duke’s or Hellman’s
• Sour cream: Balances out the mayo with a slight tang Substitute with plain Greek yogurt if needed
• Pickle juice: This seasons the dressing and boosts the dill pickle flavor Save the juice from your favorite jar for this
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle background savoriness It is optional but deepens the overall flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil water and salt it well Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until just al dente Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking Rinsing keeps the salad from getting gummy

Make the Dressing:

In a medium bowl combine mayonnaise sour cream pickle juice onion powder and a cracked black pepper Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and creamy This is your flavor base so taste and adjust salt or pickle juice if needed

Prep the Salad Mix-ins:

Dice sharp cheddar into small cubes Cut dill pickles into bite sized pieces and finely chop the fresh dill Measure and have these ready so the salad comes together fast

Assemble the Salad:

Add cooled pasta cubes of cheese pickles and dill into a large mixing bowl Pour dressing over everything Gently toss from the bottom up until each piece of pasta and mix in is thoroughly coated Try a spoonful and adjust seasonings if needed

Chill and Serve:

Cover and refrigerate salad for at least 30 minutes before serving Chilling lets the flavors meld and dressing thicken Serve cold straight from the fridge

The pop of dill is what first made this dish memorable for me A summer picnic is not the same without a giant bowl of this pasta salad Everyone in my family has their own favorite way to make it extra tangy by adding an extra splash of pickle juice

Storage Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in a tightly sealed container This salad keeps well for up to three days If the dressing thickens over time stir in a little more pickle juice or milk before serving Avoid freezing as both pasta and creamy dressing lose texture after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Cavatappi or bow tie pasta work well in place of rotini Shredded cheese is fine but cubes add a heartier bite If fresh dill is unavailable dried dill works nicely For a lighter twist sub half the mayo for Greek yogurt or use all yogurt for a tangier dressing

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad alongside burgers grilled chicken or your favorite barbecue meats It also makes a great lunch with sliced tomatoes on the side Garnish the top with extra chopped dill and a few slices of pickle for color

Potluck and Family Roots

Dill pickle pasta salad has deep Midwest roots with picnic tables stacked high in the summer My aunt always brought her own batch to reunions and I still remember the competition over which bowl emptied first That tangy crunch is nostalgic for me

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What types of pasta work best?

Rotini is ideal for holding the creamy dressing, but fusilli, farfalle, cavatappi, or elbow macaroni are also good choices due to their shapes.

→ Is it possible to substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Sharp cheddar provides nice contrast, but colby jack, regular cheddar, or even pepper jack can be used. Pre-cubed cheese is a time-saver.

→ Can dried dill replace fresh dill?

Yes, you can use about one tablespoon of dried dill if fresh isn't available. Adjust to your flavor preference.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid leaving the dish out longer than 2 hours due to dairy in the dressing.

→ What if the dressing thickens after chilling?

Simply stir in a splash of pickle juice or milk to loosen and restore the creamy consistency before serving.