Imagine a dish that combines the pillowy softness of gluten-free gnocchi, the vibrant freshness of pesto, and the burst of cherry tomatoes - all in one mouthwatering salad that's ready in just 25 minutes! This Gluten-Free Gnocchi Pesto Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that proves dietary restrictions never mean compromising on flavor. Whether you're gluten-sensitive, health-conscious, or simply a food lover looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package gluten-free gnocchi
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 package of gluten-free gnocchi, 1 cup of pesto sauce, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cup of mozzarella balls, 1/4 cup of fresh basil (chopped), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the gnocchi.
- Carefully add the gluten-free gnocchi to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent the gnocchi from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface.
- While the gnocchi is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil.
- Once the gnocchi is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it directly from the pot to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This will allow some of the pasta water to mix with the other ingredients, adding flavor and moisture.
- Drizzle the pesto sauce over the gnocchi and vegetables in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the gnocchi is well coated with the pesto and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste as you go to achieve the desired flavor balance.
- Once combined, let the pasta salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can serve it warm or refrigerate it for a chilled version.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your Gluten Free Gnocchi Pesto Pasta Salad!
Tips
- Choose high-quality gluten-free gnocchi for the best texture and taste.
- Don't overcook the gnocchi - they should be tender but not mushy. Watch for them to float to the surface.
- Reserve a little pasta water to help the pesto sauce coat the gnocchi more evenly.
- Use fresh mozzarella balls for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For extra freshness, add some lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
- This salad can be served warm or chilled, making it perfect for meal prep or summer gatherings.
- For added protein, consider mixing in some grilled chicken or pine nuts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 288kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
