Simple dill pickle pasta salad is the ultimate easy side dish! Packed with creamy dressing, tangy dill pickles, and tender pasta, this vibrant salad is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you, because simple dill pickle pasta salad is a delicious twist on a classic and it’s ready in minutes. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner, get ready to fall in love with this flavorful and simple pasta salad.
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Why You Will Love This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
This simple dill pickle pasta salad recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting. Think creamy, tangy goodness coating perfectly cooked pasta. What’s not to love? It takes just minutes to throw together, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
And the flavor? Oh, the flavor! The combination of dill pickles, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs is simply irresistible. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be coming back for seconds. Plus, this recipe is super adaptable. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or protein for a truly personalized dish.
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Ingredients Needed for This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
- Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions and cooled
- Dill Pickles: 1 1/2 cups dill pickles, chopped (about 6 medium pickles)
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
- Dill Pickle Juice: 1/4 cup
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
How to Make This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
- 2. Prepare the Pickles and Onion: Chop the dill pickles into small, bite size pieces. Finely chop the red onion.
- 3. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, dill pickle juice, fresh dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of sugar if I want a slightly sweeter flavor.
- 4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, chopped dill pickles, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- 5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for the best flavor.
- 6. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss. Garnish with extra fresh dill, if desired. Enjoy this delightful simple dill pickle pasta salad!
How to Serve This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
This simple dill pickle pasta salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or chicken. It also makes a refreshing addition to a picnic spread.
For a complete meal, try serving it with grilled shrimp or chicken. You can even add cubed cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for extra flavor and texture. Heart Shaped Caprese Salad also makes a great addition! To elevate the presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a few extra pickle slices.
How to Store This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
This simple dill pickle pasta salad stores incredibly well, making it a perfect make ahead side dish. To refrigerate, transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly.
I don’t recommend freezing this pasta salad, as the mayonnaise and sour cream can separate and become watery upon thawing. Reheating is not necessary as this dill pickle pasta salad is best served cold.
Tips to Make This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
To customize this simple dill pickle pasta salad, consider these helpful tips. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise or sour cream. Want more flavor? Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing.
If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, dried dill can be used but be sure to use a smaller amount (about 1 teaspoon) as dried herbs are more concentrated. A common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Be sure to cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad. For best results, allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Helpful Notes for This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
A few extra notes to guarantee success with this simple dill pickle pasta salad. The key ingredient here is, of course, the dill pickles! I recommend using high quality dill pickles for the best flavor. You can even experiment with different types of pickles, such as spicy or sweet pickles, to customize the taste to your liking.
For the pasta, elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but you can also use other small pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. As an alternative, why not try my Dense Bean Salad Recipe? As for equipment, all you need is a large bowl, a whisk, and a knife for chopping.
Variation of This simple dill pickle pasta salad Recipe
There are many ways to put a unique twist on this already delicious simple dill pickle pasta salad recipe. For a seasonal twist, add fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes during the summer months. In the fall, try adding roasted butternut squash or chopped apples.
Optional versions could include adding protein such as shredded chicken, chopped ham, or hard boiled eggs. For a vegetarian version, add chickpeas or white beans. Creative modifications could involve adding crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Consider pairing this dish with my Easy Simple Banana Pudding Recipe for dessert!
What goes well with dill pickle pasta salad?
Dill pickle pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats like burgers and chicken, BBQ ribs, or hot dogs. It’s also a great accompaniment to sandwiches and wraps.
How long does dill pickle pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
Dill pickle pasta salad will generally last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, when stored properly in an airtight container. The dressing may separate slightly, so give it a good stir before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to simple dill pickle pasta salad?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to simple dill pickle pasta salad, such as diced celery, red onion, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots. These additions will provide extra flavor and texture.
What is the best type of pasta to use for pasta salad?
Smaller pasta shapes such as rotini, farfalle (bowtie), elbow macaroni, or penne work great for pasta salads. These shapes hold the dressing and other ingredients well.
Conclusion
I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this simple dill pickle pasta salad as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues. The creamy, tangy flavors are sure to be a hit with everyone. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
