Get ready to transport your senses to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with this incredibly delicious and easy-to-make Gluten-Free Pasta Salad! Imagine a vibrant, refreshing dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary adventure packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a healthy twist that will make your weekday lunches or summer gatherings absolutely unforgettable. Whether you're gluten-sensitive, health-conscious, or simply a food lover looking for a mouthwatering recipe, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz gluten free pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the gluten free pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as gluten free pasta can become mushy quickly.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red onion, and slice the Kalamata olives.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always check your gluten-free pasta package for exact cooking times, as they can vary. Aim for al dente texture by testing a piece a minute before the recommended cooking time.
- Cooling Technique: Rinsing pasta with cold water immediately after cooking not only stops the cooking process but helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Flavor Boost: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the herbs and dressing to fully infuse the ingredients, creating a more complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best taste and crunch. If cherry tomatoes aren't in season, you can substitute with regular diced tomatoes.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this a more substantial main course.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
