Three Day Pasta Salad
A flavorful and colorful pasta salad featuring vermicelli, fresh vegetables, and a tangy lemon-mayonnaise dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Day 1: Cook vermicelli as directed and drain.
- Mix cooked vermicelli with oil, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and Accent seasoning in a large bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Day 2: Add chopped green pepper, green onions, celery, and chopped olives to the pasta mixture.
- Stir in mayonnaise until evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the oil with a flavored olive oil or adding herbs like basil or oregano. You can also use gluten-free vermicelli for a gluten-free version. If you prefer a tangier taste, increase the lemon juice slightly. Chopped cherry tomatoes or cucumbers can also be added for extra freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad chilled as a refreshing main dish or a side at barbecues and picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Sourdough Breadgroves, Texas for a delightful contrast in textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit more mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Day Pasta Salad contains roughly 885 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1286mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
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 ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it's best when allowed to sit in the refrigerator overnight to let the flavors develop. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative for a healthier twist. These options will provide creaminess while reducing calories, making it suitable for various diets.
Is this recipe customizable?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is highly customizable. You can add ingredients like diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even proteins like chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. Adjust the seasonings and vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
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).