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Tangy Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Sharp Cheddar and Red Onion

tangy dill pickle macaroni salad - featured image
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A tangy and creamy macaroni salad featuring sharp cheddar, red onion, and dill pickles that delivers a bold, refreshing flavor perfect for cookouts and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup chopped dill pickles (about 150 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 grams)
  • ½ medium red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 7 to 8 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool completely.
  3. While the pasta cools, chop the dill pickles, finely dice the red onion, shred the sharp cheddar cheese, and chop fresh dill if using.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth.
  5. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the dressing and mix well.
  6. Add the cooled macaroni, pickles, red onion, sharp cheddar, and fresh dill to the dressing. Gently fold together with a spatula or large spoon to coat evenly without breaking the pasta.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, gently stir the salad. If it seems thick, add a teaspoon of pickle juice or a splash of water to loosen it slightly.

Notes

Rinse pasta with cold water after draining to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour to develop flavors. Use fresh shredded sharp cheddar for best texture. Adjust tanginess with pickle juice or vinegar carefully. Can substitute vegan mayo and dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based version.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, dill pickle, sharp cheddar, red onion, creamy pasta salad, summer cookout, potluck side, easy recipe

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/tangy-dill-pickle-macaroni-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-sharp-cheddar-and-red-onion/