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Fresh Gluten-Free Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dressing

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A fresh, lively gluten-free pasta salad featuring a bright herb-infused olive oil dressing. Perfect for quick, healthy meals or summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) gluten-free pasta (brown rice or quinoa-based recommended)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives), chopped
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
  2. While the pasta cooks, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, dice 1 medium cucumber, 1 small red bell pepper, and finely chop 1/4 cup red onion. Chop about 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives). Wash and pat dry the herbs.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, juice of 1 large lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended. Let sit for 10-15 minutes if possible to meld flavors.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Fold in optional ingredients like crumbled feta, sliced olives, or toasted pine nuts if desired.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry. Before serving, give it a light toss.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to stop cooking and remove excess starch to prevent gumminess. Let dressing sit for 10-15 minutes before mixing for best flavor. Fresh herbs are essential; dried herbs won’t provide the same brightness. Prepare salad a few hours ahead but toss dressing just before serving to avoid soggy pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free pasta salad, herb-infused dressing, easy pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, summer salad, gluten-free recipe

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/fresh-gluten-free-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-herb-infused-olive-oil-dressing/