This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a tangy and refreshing dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or quick weeknight dinners. It combines whole-wheat rotini pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dill dressing for a flavor-packed experience. You can even make it a hearty meal by adding chicken or tuna. Follow this easy recipe to create a dish that’s healthy, satisfying, and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
For the Creamy Dill Dressing:
- ⅓ cup sour cream or whole-milk plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons pickle juice (from the jar)
- 1-3 teaspoons hot sauce (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large saucepan and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or yogurt), mayonnaise, pickle juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix the Salad
- Add the celery, bell pepper, pickles, red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the cooled pasta into the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Let It Rest
- Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours if you prefer a chilled pasta salad.
Tips for Success
Choosing the Right Pasta
- Rotini pasta is ideal for this salad because its spirals hold the creamy dressing well. If unavailable, use alternatives like fusilli, bow tie, or cavatappi.
Make It Creamier
- Stick with full-fat mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a richer texture and better flavor.
Add Protein
- Transform this salad into a main dish by adding flaked tuna, shredded chicken, or even chickpeas.
Store Properly
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate for a fresher taste.
Nutritional Highlights
Whole-Wheat Pasta
- Packed with gut-friendly fiber and antioxidants, whole-wheat pasta helps manage blood sugar and keeps you feeling full longer.
Veggie Boost
- Bell peppers and celery add a satisfying crunch and provide vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants to support your immune system.
Dill Pickles
- Fermented pickles offer probiotics for gut health. However, they are high in sodium, so enjoy in moderation if needed.
Conclusion
This Dill-Pickle Pasta Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing is a versatile recipe perfect for any occasion. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tangy pickles, and creamy dressing will delight your taste buds. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and can be customized with your favorite proteins. Whether it’s for a picnic, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
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