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Simple Dill Pickle Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Favorite

A refreshing Simple Dill Pickle Pasta Salad that's tangy, creamy, and perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chilling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta or substitute with penne or shells
For the Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup Dill Pickles chopped; can be substituted with sweet pickles
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill or substitute with dried dill at one-third the amount
  • 1/2 cup White Onion minced; green onions are an acceptable alternative
  • 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese diced; cheddar can be used as an alternative
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise or substitute with Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream or substitute with plain yogurt
  • 1/3 cup Dill Pickle Brine adjust to taste
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper season to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by gathering and prepping your ingredients. Dice the Colby Jack cheese, mince the white onion, and chop the dill pickles.
  2. Bring salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add rotini pasta and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Rinse the drained pasta under cool running water for about 30 seconds to prevent mushiness. Drain again.
  4. Transfer the warm pasta to a mixing bowl, add 1/3 cup dill pickle brine, and toss gently.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and remaining dill pickle brine. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Fold the dill pickles, diced cheese, and minced onion into the pasta. Pour the dressing over and combine gently.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, preferably 3 hours, to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Salad flavors deepen over time.