Quick and Easy Gluten-free Pasta Salad: Perfect for Meal Planning

I have been making this quick and easy gluten-free pasta salad recipe for my family for years – it’s a hit every time. Funny enough, it wasn’t until I moved to Canada that I discovered the wonders of pasta salad. Back in Romania, where I was born and raised, it wasn’t a common dish at all.

But thanks to my Canadian boyfriend (who’s now my husband), I learned the ropes of making this delicious pasta salad. Over the years, I’ve put my own twist on it by adding some extra nutritious ingredients—I just love experimenting with recipes! And voilà, my very own pasta salad was born, a perfect blend of flavors and healthiness (this is totally a word!). 

What I love about this pasta salad is not only its deliciousness, but also how easy it is to prepare. Plus, the leftovers taste just as yummy, making it a fantastic option for quick, satisfying meals.

Whenever I serve this pasta salad, I love pairing it with some delicious roasted chicken and a refreshing green salad. I’m curious – how do you enjoy your pasta salad? Do you have a favorite combo or a secret ingredient that takes it to the next level? I’d love to hear all about it, so feel free to share your pasta salad secrets below! Let’s swap ideas and make our pasta salads even more special together! 🍝🥗

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Good To Know

I like to use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, corn or chickpeas. These alternatives are delicious and they also come with some awesome brain-boosting perks. They’re loaded with B vitamins, magnesium and fiber, which play a crucial role in supporting brain health. Plus, the slow release of energy they provide keeps the mind sharp and focused throughout the day.

Now, here’s a little secret to elevate your dishes—drizzle some olive oil! Besides adding a delightful flavor, olive oil is a true brain champion. Its monounsaturated fats, a sprinkle of omega 3s and amazing antioxidants all work wonders for the gray matter. 

Who knew that something as simple as garlic could be a brain-boosting superstar? With its awesome antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adding garlic to different dishes is a smart choice for keeping the brain in top-notch shape.🧠

Substitutions

Great substitutes to feta cheese are:

Marinated chickpeas – roast or pan-fry chickpeas and marinate them with lemon juice, olive oil and your favorite fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, etc).

Cashew cheese – soak cashews, blend them with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic and a bit of salt to create a creamy cashew cheese that works amazingly well as a feta cheese replacement.

Marinated tofu – extra-firm tofu can be cubed and marinated with lemon juice, olive oil, oregano and a touch of salt to mimic the tangy flavor of feta cheese.

Make it

Gluten free – Use gluten free pasta.

Dairy free – Omit feta – see the many delicious options under substitutions.

Vegetarian – Omit feta – see the many delicious options under substitutions.

Extra health points

I love preparing a wholesome and delicious pasta salad meal for my family of four. I sometimes roast a big, juicy chicken and even add a fresh green salad on the side.

And the best part: leftover chicken becomes the star of the show in a whole new set of dishes. Chicken sandwiches, chicken wraps or Caesar salad are real crowd-pleasers. What’s your favourite way to enjoy chicken leftovers?

Quick and Easy Pasta Salad: Perfect for Meal Planning

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• Author: HY Team
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 6–7 servings 1x

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Description

This easy pasta salad is a delightful combination of cooked pasta, crisp veggies and savory dressing. It’s a refreshing and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal. The vibrant colors and flavors of the ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something to bring to a barbeque, picnic or potluck, this summer pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Salad ingredients

• 3 cups gluten-free pasta, uncooked
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and quartered
• 1 cup feta, crumbled
• green onions (optional)

Dressing (see notes)

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the instructions provided on the package.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the rest of the salad ingredients.

3. Make the dressing by mixing together the olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes in a jar with a lid.

4. Add the dressing to the salad ingredients, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined.

5. Taste the pasta salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more garlic or chili flakes if desired.

6. Garnish the salad with green onions.

7. Refrigerate the pasta salad for a minimum of one hour to allow the flavors to meld

 

Enjoy!

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Notes

For young guests who may not appreciate yet the spiciness of chili flakes and the pungency of garlic, you can omit these ingredients and use only olive oil as a milder dressing option. This adjustment ensures a kid-friendly version of the dish.

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What To Cook Next

Oh my goodness, you are going to love this heart-healthy chicken salad recipe with grapes and pecans because it’s another recipe perfect for meal prep. Not only is it rich in nutrients and absolutely delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. It’s creamy, bright and fresh – definitely a keeper!