Classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad
Classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad combines tangy, crunchy dill pickles with tender elbow macaroni and a creamy mayo and sour cream dressing. This refreshing and flavorful salad is a perfect side for summer cookouts, picnics, and casual gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional macaroni salad that delights both kids and adults.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Salad
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Cook the macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just tender but still firm to the bite. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the vegetables and pickles: Finely chop the dill pickles, onion, and celery into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Mix the dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and thick, achieving a balanced tang and creamy texture.
- Combine all ingredients: Gently fold the cooled macaroni, chopped vegetables, and pickles into the dressing, coating every piece evenly without breaking the pasta.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and to chill thoroughly.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp dill pickles to maintain crunch.
- Do not overcook the macaroni to avoid mushiness.
- Chill well to let flavors develop fully.
- Adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, mustard) at the end for perfect balance.
- Use mild onion varieties like sweet or vidalia onions if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad, Macaroni Salad, Pickle Salad, Summer Side Dish, Creamy Salad, Picnic Salad