Can this pasta salad be made gluten-freeu003cbr/u003e

Yes, simple use a gluten-free pasta for this recipe.

How can I meal-prep this recipe for the week ahead?u003cbr/u003e

Meal-prepping this vegan pasta salad is a breeze. Simply chop the veggies, cook the pasta, and whisk up the dressing ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, mix them together for a fresh salad in minutes. This method keeps everything crisp and prevents sogginess.

How can I make this vegan pasta salad ahead of time?u003cbr/u003e

Sure, it's easy to prepare this vegan pasta salad ahead of time. Cook the pasta and prep the veggies, then store them in the fridge. Make extra dressing because the pasta absorbs it over time. Before serving, mix it all with a fresh splash of the reserved dressing to rejuvenate flavors. It can sit for up to 2 days, but check for freshness if stored longer.

How should I store leftovers?

u003cbr/u003eLeftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness and to maintain texture. If you've already dressed the salad, it'll keep well for up to 5 days—though the first 3 days will have the crispest veggies. If possible, keep some dressing aside to refresh the salad if needed when serving again.

How long is pasta salad good for?

u003cbr/u003eYour vegan pasta salad, when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, will stay fresh and tasty for about 4-5 days. If you've mixed in the dressing, give it a good toss before serving to redistribute flavors and moisture.

How long is pasta salad good out of the fridge?

u003cbr/u003ePasta salad should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Beyond that, bacteria can multiply quickly, so if your salad has been sitting out for a while at a picnic or party, it's best to discard any leftovers to avoid foodborne illness. Always play it safe with perishable foods!

Best Vegan Pasta Salad: Quick, Easy & Delicious Recipe

Description

You won't believe how quick, easy and delicious our vegan pasta salad is. It is an awesome meal prep recipe, an elegant party pleaser or the perfect for your beach picnic. A few basic ingredients and 15 minutes, is all you need to put this together. So what are you waiting for, let's get started.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Fusilli Pasta 16 oz.
Cherry Tomatoes, halved 8 oz.
Red onion 1, medium sliced
Bell Pepper 1, sliced
Large half cucumber, slived & halved
Black olives drained, 1 can
Banana Peppers, 1/2 cup
Parsley or Basil chopped 1/2 cup

Dressing

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp agave
2 tbsp dijon mustard
1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning mix
1-2 tsp crushed black pepper
salt (optional)

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Instructions

Begin by cooking the pasta to al-dente consistency, as per the instructions on the package.
Meanwhile, prepare the dressing in a jar by adding olive oil, fresh lemon juice, agave, dijon mustard, Italian mix seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley, basil or dill. Lastly add the crushed black pepper, and shake the jar thoroughly to mix the ingredients well.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain the water, coat it with a drizzle of olive oil and add it to a large bowl, followed by halved cherry tomatoes, onion slices, cucumber slices, olives, banana peppers, freshly chopped basil or parsley, and pour the dressing.
Mix the ingredients and refrigerate for atleast 30 minutes before serving.
Serve cold. [mv_img id="35373"]

Notes

Tips to make the best Pasta Salad

Choose the Right Mixing Tools: Use a large mixing bowl to give yourself plenty of room to stir without spilling. Tongs or large spoons are great for tossing ingredients gently.

Toss Gently: Combine your cooled, drained pasta with the vegetables, protein, and any herbs first. You want to distribute these evenly before adding the dressing.

Dress It Up: Pour your homemade dressing over the pasta mix and use your tossing tools to coat every piece without breaking the pasta.

Let It Marinate: This could be the most crucial step. Chilling your salad in the fridge for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Prep Time: 0 hours
Additional Time: 0 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American