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Creamy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad (The Ultimate Potluck Side Dish)

This creamy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad combines tender rotini pasta, tangy dill pickles, sharp cheddar, and a zesty creamy dressing, making it the perfect side dish for potlucks, BBQs, and summer picnics. The refreshing acidity of the pickles and the creamy dressing create a flavor-packed experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Classic
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz Rotini Pasta
  • 1/4 cup Pickle Juice (from refrigerated dill pickles)
  • 1.5 cups Dill Pickles (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely minced)
  • 1 cup Sharp White Cheddar (cut into small cubes)
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1 tbsp Dried Dill
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • Salt & Pepper to taste Salt & Pepper

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini for 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente texture. Drain and immediately toss with 1/4 cup of pickle juice. Allow pasta to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
  2. While the pasta cools, finely chop the dill pickles, red onion, and cube the cheddar cheese into uniform pieces. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be slightly thinner than expected, as it will thicken while chilling.
  4. Combine the cooled pasta, chopped pickles, red onion, and cheddar in a large serving bowl. Add two-thirds of the dressing and gently fold together using a spatula until evenly mixed.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
  6. Before serving, add the remaining dressing and fresh dill. Toss the salad gently to combine and serve cold.

Notes

This tangy, creamy pasta salad is a crowd-pleasing dish with its crunchy pickles, fresh herbs, and savory dressing. Whether for a party, a picnic, or meal prep, it’s a guaranteed hit with its irresistible flavors and textures.

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