Peggy'S Pasta Salad
A vibrant pasta salad with crunchy vegetables, sliced olives, and a tangy lemon-mayo dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings with friends or family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the vermicelli for 6 minutes, then drain without rinsing.
- Marinate the cooked vermicelli overnight in salad oil, lemon juice, and Accent.
- The next morning, add mayonnaise, chopped celery, chopped onion, sliced stuffed olives, sliced ripe or black olives, chopped pimentos, salt, and pepper to the marinated vermicelli.
- Mix well and let sit for a while to allow flavors to blend.
- Refrigerate the salad to improve the flavor before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider substituting the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version. You can also use whole wheat vermicelli for a healthier twist. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. The flavor improves with time, so making it a day ahead is ideal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, pairing it perfectly with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements a light meal alongside a refreshing drink like Apple Iced Tea. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a green salad or a bowl of Megan'S Favorite Meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, avoid reheating; instead, serve cold straight from the fridge. If the salad appears dry after chilling, add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil to refresh the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 125 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this pasta salad vegan by substituting mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, ensure that the salad oil and any olives used do not contain animal products. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dish that fits vegan recipes.
How long can I marinate the vermicelli?
Marinating the vermicelli overnight is recommended for the best flavor infusion. However, if you’re short on time, even a few hours can enhance the taste. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more robust the flavors will be.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For extra crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or toasted nuts, like walnuts or almonds. These additions will provide a delightful texture contrast to the soft vermicelli and enhance the overall flavor profile of the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).