Description
A creamy, tangy pasta salad with crunchy pickles, smoky bacon, and fresh vegetables that’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (Adds creaminess to the salad)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Offers tangy flavor)
- 1/4 cup Pickle Brine (Infuses dressing with tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard (Enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Elevates taste)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (Balances tanginess)
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon (Provides smoky, crispy texture)
- 8 ounces Short Pasta (Acts as the main ingredient)
- 1 cup Pickles (Adds refreshing crunch)
- 1 cup Mini Cucumbers (Contributes fresh bite)
- 1 cup Mild Cheese (Offers creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup Red Onions (Brings color and bite)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Dill (Adds freshness)
- to taste Salt and Pepper (For adjusting seasoning)
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking. Let the pasta drain well in the colander.
- While the pasta cooks, lay the bacon slices on a sheet pan or fry in a skillet. Cook until crispy. Drain on paper towels and cool slightly, then chop into bite-size pieces.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle brine, yellow mustard, kosher salt, and sugar. Taste and adjust.
- Chop the pickles, mini cucumbers, mild cheese, and red onions into small, even pieces.
Combining
- Combine the cooled pasta, chopped pickles, cucumbers, cheese, red onions, and chopped bacon in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything coats evenly.
- Add the fresh dill and toss once more.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The pasta will soak some dressing over time. For crisper bacon, store bacon separately. Do not freeze. If the salad seems dry after sitting, stir in a splash of pickle brine or a spoonful of mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American