Save to Pinterest 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.
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Save to Pinterest Common Questions
- → Can gluten-free pasta be used in this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well and provides a suitable alternative for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → How long should the pasta salad chill before serving?
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and develop fully.
- → What types of pasta are best for this salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or shells hold the dressing well and provide good texture.
- → Can I make a vegan version of this dish?
Yes, substitute mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly option.
- → Is it possible to add extra crunch to this salad?
Adding chopped cucumber enhances the crisp texture and freshness of the salad.
- → How should this dish be stored after preparation?
Keep refrigerated in a covered container and consume within a couple of days for best freshness.