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Simple Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Simple Dill Pickle Pasta Salad – A Tangy Summer Favorite

A delightful mix of tender rotini, crisp dill pickles, and a creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Substitute with penne, bow ties, or shells for variety.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles Choose your favorite brand for the best brine experience.
  • 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese Can be swapped with cheddar or a non-dairy cheese for a twist.
  • 1/2 medium White Onion Replace with green onions for a milder profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill Use 1/3 the amount of dried dill if fresh isn't available.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Can be replaced with more mayonnaise or a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Dill Pickle Brine Can be increased for extra tangy goodness.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by gathering your ingredients. Dice the Colby Jack cheese into small cubes, mince the white onion finely, and chop the dill pickles into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander, then rinse it under cold water.
  3. Transfer the warm pasta into a large mixing bowl. Pour in a few tablespoons of dill pickle brine while the pasta is still slightly warm. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, remaining dill pickle brine, freshly chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.
  5. Add the chopped pickles, diced cheese, and minced onion to the brined pasta. Pour the creamy dressing over this mixture and gently toss everything until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 1-2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is best served cold and can be made a day in advance for deeper flavors.

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