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gluten free pasta salad

Gluten Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful gluten free pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing - perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Grain & Pasta Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz gluten-free rotini pasta brown rice or corn-based work best
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced, English or Persian preferred
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup black olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
For the Dressing
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/4 cup artichoke hearts quartered
  • 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper diced
  • 2 tbsp pine nuts toasted
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
  2. Add the gluten-free rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, checking 1-2 minutes before the suggested time for al dente texture.
  3. Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
  4. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil (about 1 teaspoon) to prevent sticking.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and any optional vegetables to the bowl with the pasta.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add optional garlic and oregano if using.
  7. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then gently toss until evenly coated.
  8. Add the crumbled feta cheese and gently fold it into the salad.
  9. Sprinkle the chopped basil and optional toasted pine nuts over the top of the salad.
  10. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  11. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

  • This salad is naturally gluten-free when made with certified gluten-free pasta, but always check all ingredient labels to ensure they're free from gluten contamination.
  • For meal prep, store the pasta, vegetables, and dressing separately, then combine just before serving.
  • The flavor improves after sitting for a few hours, making this a perfect make-ahead dish.
  • Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.