A rich and tangy pasta salad with halal-friendly bacon substitute, sharp cheddar, and a vibrant dill-pickle ranch dressing. Ideal for potlucks or picnics, with a balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors.
16 oz Rotini pasta
16 oz Crispy halal alternative bacon (see notes), cooked and crumbled
1 cup Mayonnaise
1 cup Sour cream
½ cup Pickle juice
1 packet Ranch dressing seasoning mix
2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
2 cups Dill pickles, chopped
8 oz Sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
Cook pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water. Add 16 oz rotini pasta and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
Prepare dressing: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, ranch seasoning, and chopped dill until smooth.
Combine salad: Fold cooled pasta into dressing. Add halal alternative bacon, chopped pickles, and cheese cubes. Mix gently until evenly coated.
Chill: Refrigerate 1 hour to let flavors develop. Stir before serving.
Sub for halal alternative: Use roasted chickpeas or oven-baked tofu for plant-based crunch.
Double up: Add sautéed mushrooms or steamed corn for extra texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Serving suggestion: Pair with grilled halal chicken or tandoori-style skewers for a complete meal.