If you’re looking for a dish that screams sunshine and freshness, then this Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad is just what you need! Picture this: tender gluten-free pasta mingling beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty Kalamata olives. It’s a flavor explosion that transports you straight to a sun-kissed Mediterranean beach. The tangy feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess, while a simple olive oil dressing ties everything together. Trust me, every bite is a burst of flavor that leaves you feeling light and satisfied. Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is your go-to for a refreshing meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and the best part? It’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it! Ready to dive in?

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free pasta (any shape you like, just make sure it’s labeled gluten-free!)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (bursting with sweetness!)
• 1 cucumber, diced (for that refreshing crunch)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (adds a lovely bite)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (for a briny kick)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (creamy and tangy goodness)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and flavor)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (adds the perfect tang)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (a classic Mediterranean herb)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this for flavor!)

How to Prepare Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Making this Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love every step of it! Here’s how to bring all those vibrant flavors together.

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your gluten-free pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it, as gluten-free pasta can get mushy quickly! Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and give it a good rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps cool it down for the salad.

Mixing the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley. Don’t be shy—use your hands or a spatula to gently toss everything together. This ensures that each ingredient gets mixed well, and all those delicious flavors meld beautifully!

Preparing the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste it! If you want more zing, add a little extra vinegar or a pinch more salt. The dressing is what brings everything to life, so adjust it to your liking before pouring it over the salad.

Chilling the Salad

Once you’ve dressed the salad, cover it and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is key—it allows the flavors to deepen and blend together. Plus, it makes the salad super refreshing when you serve it. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Refreshing and vibrant flavors that will brighten up any meal.
• Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free option.
• Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added variety.
• Great for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days!
• Gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.

Tips for Success

To make the perfect Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad, don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap out the feta for goat cheese if you prefer a creamier texture, or toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. For a zesty twist, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice. Serving it on a bed of greens not only looks gorgeous but adds extra freshness. And remember, you can always adjust the dressing to suit your taste—more vinegar for tang, or a dash of honey for sweetness!

Nutritional Information

This Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad is not just a delicious treat; it’s also nutritious! Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, 18g of fat, 9g of protein, and 32g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Absolutely! If gluten isn’t a concern for you, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad stays fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving.

What can I add for extra protein?
Great question! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some diced turkey for a protein boost.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out, and you’ve got a tasty lunch ready to go!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store leftovers, simply transfer the Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, I recommend serving it cold for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy that refreshing taste straight from the fridge!

For more information on the health benefits of Mediterranean diets, check out this Healthline article.

For additional tips on preparing gluten-free meals, visit Gluten Free Living.

And if you’re interested in more delicious pasta recipes, check out this creamy garlic pasta recipe.

Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad: 5 Flavorful Secrets

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A refreshing gluten-free pasta salad with Mediterranean flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups gluten-free pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use any gluten-free pasta of your choice.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
• This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing and chilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad