Description
This Classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad is a flavorful twist on a traditional pasta salad, combining tender macaroni with crunchy dill pickles, fresh herbs, and a creamy, tangy dressing. The perfect side dish for cookouts, potlucks, or meal prep!
Ingredients
Units
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Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
- 3/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Cook the macaroni: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, chopped pickles, celery, red onion, and fresh dill. Add the shredded cheddar if using.
- Combine and chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve and enjoy! Give the salad a final stir before serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill or chopped pickles if desired.
Notes
For extra tang, add 1 tbsp of pickle relish or a splash more pickle juice.- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make it a meal by adding diced ham, cooked bacon, or hard-boiled eggs!