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Container of homemade pasta topped with fresh sauce and herbs, ready to serve for dinner.

Gluten Free Pasta Salad

Fresh, colorful, and gluten-free! This easy pasta salad is the perfect side dish for BBQs, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Gluten-free pasta Any shape you love penne, rotini, or shells.
  • Tomatoes Cherry grape, or diced roma tomatoes.
  • Red onion For color and a mild bite.
  • Bell peppers Use a mix of red yellow, orange, and green for a rainbow effect.
  • English Cucumber Crisp and refreshing.
  • Italian dressing – Store-bought or homemade check label to ensure gluten-free.
  • Olive oil Adds extra richness and smoothness.
  • Lime juice Freshly squeezed for a zesty finish.
  • Salt & pepper Season to taste.
  • Garlic powder For extra depth of flavor.

Equipment

  • Henckles kitchen knives https://amzn.to/3WNGfxN

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prep the Vegetables
  1. Dice the tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and cucumbers into bite-sized pieces.
    Ingredients used for the Pasta salad recipe
  2. For precise, safe chopping, I recommend using Henckles Kitchen Knives – sharp, durable, and perfect for prepping fresh produce.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta and chopped vegetables.
  2. Add Italian dressing, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings or dressing to your liking.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or light main course.

Video

Notes

Liquid note: Adjust Italian dressing, olive oil, and lime juice to your taste preference. Some like it lightly dressed, others love a bolder, tangier flavor.