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Fresh Dill Pickle Pasta Salad with Creamy White Cheddar Dressing

fresh dill pickle pasta salad - featured image
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A bright, tangy, and creamy pasta salad featuring crunchy dill pickles and a smooth white cheddar dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 1 cup chopped dill pickles (choose crunchy, firm pickles)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons pickle juice

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, chop 1 cup of dill pickles into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill. Set both aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Add 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese and stir until well combined. If desired, stir in 2 tablespoons pickle juice for extra tang.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped dill pickles, and fresh dill. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently toss until every piece of pasta is coated. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and the dressing thicken slightly.
  6. Before serving, give it a quick stir. If the salad seems too thick, add a splash of milk or pickle juice to loosen it up. Garnish with extra dill sprigs if desired.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Shred your own white cheddar for better melting and flavor. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour for best flavor. Adjust dressing quantity gradually to avoid sogginess. Drain pickles on paper towels for extra crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, dill pickle, creamy dressing, white cheddar, easy recipe, potluck, picnic, side dish

Find it online: https://milaspoon.com/fresh-dill-pickle-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-creamy-white-cheddar-dressing/