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Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer side dish bursting with tangy flavors, creamy dressing, and crunchy dill pickles. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a bright lunch, this easy-to-make salad combines tender rotini pasta, dill pickles, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and herbs for a deliciously balanced dish that pleases any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz rotini pasta

Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup dill pickles, diced (reserve some for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Veggies & Herbs

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill weed, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the rotini pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool completely.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, diced dill pickles (reserve some for garnish if desired), apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Chop the veggies: Dice the red onion finely to avoid overpowering bites, and roughly chop fresh dill to release its fragrant oils, keeping both ready for mixing.
  4. Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the dressing, chopped onions, dill, and a bit of the reserved pickle pieces, ensuring everything is evenly coated and flavorful.
  5. Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let the flavors meld beautifully. Serve cold for the best refreshing taste.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm to hold up well in the salad.
  • Choose crunchy dill pickles (not sweet or bread-and-butter varieties) for authentic tang and texture.
  • Whisk the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt first before adding other ingredients for a smooth dressing.
  • Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Add some fresh dill just before serving for a fresh aroma and bright color.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dill pickle pasta salad, summer side dish, creamy pasta salad, tangy pasta salad, picnic salad, barbecue side dish