Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a bold and flavorful twist on a classic side dish, this Spicy Pickle Pasta Salad is it! Packed with tangy pickles, a creamy yet zesty dressing, and a touch of heat, it’s perfect for pickle lovers and spice fans alike. It’s easy to make, great for BBQs, potlucks, or weekday lunches, and it only gets better the next day. The crunch of the pickles mixed with al dente pasta and the kick from hot sauce makes every bite memorable.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup dill pickles, diced
- 1/2 cup pickle juice
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh dill or parsley
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced pickles, red onion, celery, and cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8 as a side dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked, chopped bacon, grilled chicken, or even hard-boiled eggs for a heartier salad.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan mayo and sour cream substitutes and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Different Pickles: Try spicy pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or a mix for unique flavor twists.
- Pasta Swap: Use rotini, bowties, or shells depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even tastier the next day.
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating is needed, but if you want to take the chill off, let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better when made a few hours or a day ahead to let the flavors blend.
How spicy is this salad?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to your taste.
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes, but it will change the flavor profile. If you like a sweet and tangy combo, go for it!
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like elbows, rotini, or shells hold the dressing well and are best for pasta salad.
Is this gluten-free?
Not unless you use gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are generally gluten-free—just check the labels to be sure.
Can I freeze this pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta and mayo-based dressing will change once thawed.
Conclusion
This Spicy Pickle Pasta Salad is a bold, tangy, and creamy dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s super easy to customize, can be made ahead, and is perfect for summer gatherings, lunches, or whenever you’re craving something zesty and fun. Whether you’re team dill or just love a little spice, this salad brings a punch of flavor you won’t forget.
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