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Creamy Cold Dill Pickle Pasta Salad with Cheddar Cubes

creamy cold dill pickle pasta salad - featured image

A tangy and creamy pasta salad featuring crunchy dill pickles and sharp cheddar cheese cubes, perfect for potlucks and warm-weather dinners. This salad balances tartness and richness with a refreshing, satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup finely chopped, drained dill pickles
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese cubes (mild or sharp)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini or elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Fold in 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles and 1 cup cheddar cheese cubes, ensuring pickles are well-drained.
  5. Gently toss the cooled pasta with the dressing mixture using a spatula or large spoon to coat evenly without breaking the pasta.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, gently stir the salad and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Use crunchy dill pickles for best texture and flavor. Rinse pasta with cold water to prevent mushiness. Chopping pickles finely ensures flavor in every bite without overpowering texture. Salad tastes better after chilling at least 1 hour. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute vegan mayo, sour cream, and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, dill pickle, cheddar cubes, creamy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, summer salad, potluck recipe, easy pasta salad