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Mouthwatering Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe – Easy Summer Side Dish

This mouthwatering dill pickle pasta salad is the ultimate side dish for summer. With tender pasta, crunchy dill pickles, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, it’s tangy, refreshing, and full of flavor. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick family meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Picnic/BBQ Dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American-Inspired, Potluck classic
Servings 8
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Knife + cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese cubes (optional)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup dill pickle brine
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Prepare dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, dill, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix salad: Combine pasta, chopped pickles, cheese cubes, and onion in a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
  • Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  • Serve: Garnish with extra dill or pickle slices before serving.

Notes

  • Cheesy twist: Add cheddar cubes for extra richness.
  • Smoky flavor: Mix in crispy bacon for depth.
  • Healthier option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
  • Vegan adaptation: Swap mayo and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives.
  • Tip: Always chill before serving—this allows the dressing to infuse the pasta and pickles.
Keyword creamy pasta salad, dill pickle pasta salad, potluck favorite, summer BBQ recipe, tangy side dish