Dill Pickle Pasta Salad – Looking for the perfect, rich, crunchy, creamy and refreshing cold pasta salad recipe? This dill pickle pasta salad has a crunchy and creamy texture, is full of bacon, dill pickles, pasta, dill and cheddar cheese, and is tossed together with a creamy dill pickle dressing. This perfect side dish is great for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, and family reunions.
If you’re looking for a new easy dinner idea, try making our Dill Pickle Pasta Salad! This recipe combines simple ingredients that blend together super well. Create a unique dish with familiar flavors. Hint – this is a dreams come true recipe for real dill pickle lovers! This easy pasta salad is perfect for barbecues, summer parties or anytime you want something crunchy and comforting.
This post is about how to make Dill Pickle Pasta Salad.
CRUNCHY AND CREAMY COLD DILL PICKLE PASTA SALAD
If you’re a fan of easy side salad recipes, or just want a refreshing pasta dinner recipe, try out this dill pickle pasta salad. It’s the ultimate BBQ side dish, potluck or easy lunch and dinner idea everyone will obsess over.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Perfect for Parties. You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch for a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough bowl to toss it all together. Perfect for Memorial Day, July 4th and any other summer gatherings.
Cold and Crisp. Pickle lovers, this recipe is for you! This easy dill pickle pasta salad is extremely simple, but truly big on taste. You have to try it!
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here’s everything you need to make this recipe –
HOW TO MAKE DILL PICKLE PASTA SALAD
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with 1/4 cup of dill pickle juice. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up the flavor, then remove any excess liquid.
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, 2 1/2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice, 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
In a large mixing bowl, add the pasta, chopped dill pickles, red onion, cheddar cheese (if using), and fresh dill. Mix well to combine. Spoon the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend together.
Garnish with extra fresh dill, if desired, and serve chilled.
Optional Add-Ons
Sliced hard-boiled eggs
Crumbled cooked bacon
Shredded or diced grilled chicken for added protein
This creamy and tangy pasta salad is perfect for pickle lovers and makes a refreshing side or main dish!
RECIPE FAQ’S
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
A: Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as bow tie, elbow macaroni, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions.
Q: Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt offers a thicker, creamier texture.
Q: How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
A: It lasts up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Yes, grilled chicken, bacon, or even hard-boiled eggs are great additions.
Q: Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
A: While it’s best to use dill pickles for the tangy flavor, you can substitute sweet pickles if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, this salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day. It’s best served chilled to allow the flavors to meld.
Q: Is there a substitute for dill pickle juice in the dressing?
A: If you don’t have pickle juice, you can use white vinegar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A: Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, bell peppers, or tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: No, the recipe isn’t gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Q: Can I use a store-bought dressing instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use a store-bought dill or ranch dressing if you prefer a shortcut.
Q: How can I make this salad spicier?
A: You can add some sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spicy pickle variety to give it some heat.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even feta cheese for a different flavor.
Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
A: Fresh dill works best for flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried dill instead.
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt (like almond or coconut-based) and skip the cheese for a vegan version.
Q: Can I substitute sour cream for the Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, sour cream is a good alternative and will give the dressing a slightly tangy flavor.
Q: Do I need to peel the pickles before chopping?
A: No, you don’t need to peel dill pickles. Just chop them with the skin on for added texture and flavor.
Q: What type of pasta is best for this salad?
A: Rotini or shells are great choices because their shape helps the dressing cling to the pasta.
Q: Can I serve this pasta salad warm?
A: This salad is best served chilled to enhance the flavors and textures.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure you have a large enough bowl to toss it all together.
Q: What should I do if the salad is too dry after refrigerating?
A: You can add a bit more pickle juice or a splash of water to loosen the salad if it thickens too much in the fridge.
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad - Looking for the perfect, rich, crunchy, creamy and refreshing cold pasta salad recipe? This dill pickle pasta salad has a crunchy and creamy texture, is full of bacon, dill pickles, pasta, dill and cheddar cheese, and is tossed together with a creamy dill pickle dressing. This perfect side dish is great for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, and family reunions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or shells work well)
- 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickle juice (for soaking the pasta and the dressing)
For the Dressing
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or full-fat based on preference)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 1/2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with 1/4 cup of dill pickle juice. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up the flavor, then remove any excess liquid.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, 2 1/2 tablespoons of dill pickle juice, 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the pasta, chopped dill pickles, red onion, cheddar cheese (if using), and fresh dill. Mix well to combine. Spoon the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill, if desired, and serve chilled.
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