Gluten-Free Pasta Salad: An Easy Vegan Recipe

Enjoy a refreshing gluten-free pasta salad, perfect for any occasion. This vegan-friendly dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it ideal for picnics or as a side dish to any meal.

I remember the first time I made this gluten-free pasta salad. It was for a potluck barbeque, and I needed something everyone could enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions. Our social group includes gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarians, and vegans.

I was allocated a side dish, and I wanted to create something a bit different from the traditional potato salad or coleslaw that everyone brings. I do not believe pasta needs to be slathered in tomato sauce; in fact, my vegan gluten-free pasta salad doesn’t even have a red sauce.

Over the years, it’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Not only is it delicious and easy to prepare, but it brings back memories of sunny days, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with friends.

What you need to make our gluten-free pasta salad

This recipe includes two parts: the gluten-free pasta salad and the vegan dressing. Here’s what you need for each:

Gluten-free pasta salad ingredients

• Gluten-free pasta
• Cherry tomatoes – I like to get the heirloom variety
• Bell pepper
• Kalamata olives – you can use any type of olive but I think Kalamatas are the best
• Red onion – I use red onions because they’re sweeter
• Parsley

Vegan pasta salad dressing ingredients

• Olive oil
• White balsamic vinegar (regular dark balsamic vinegar works too but is not as pretty)
• Raw sugar
• Minced garlic (or garlic-infused olive oil)
• Spices: basil, oregano, salt, black pepper

Optional add-ins to our gluten-free Mediterranean pasta salad

While I love the pasta salad exactly as is, I have been known to add extras. Either because one of us is craving a flavor, we want more protein, or simply because we have the ingredients and want to use them. Being that we are not vegan, we divided the options into those that keep the salad vegan, those that make it vegetarian, and other options.

Optional add-ins that keep it a vegan gluten-free pasta salad

• Chickpeas – for a protein boost and other health benefits.
• Artichoke hearts – for a tangy flavor.
• Avocado – for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – for a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Roasted red peppers – for sweetness and a smoky touch.
• Sweet peas, corn, roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or pretty much any veggie for color and variety.
• Cucumber – for extra crunch and freshness.
• Toasted pine nuts, cashews, or almond slivers – for a nutty texture.
• For a green, leafy addition, chopped fresh spinach, beetroot leaves, or arugula.
• Diced tofu or tempeh – for more protein.

Add-ins that are not dairy-free but still vegetarian

• Feta cheese – for a salty, tangy bite.
• Shaved Parmesan – for a nutty, savory flavor.
• Mozzarella balls – for a soft, creamy texture.
• Goat cheese crumbles – for a mild, earthy flavor.
• Blue cheese crumbles – for a strong, piquant flavor.
• Halloumi – grilled and cubed for a chewy texture.

Still more optional add-ins

You might want to add some cooked chicken if you are neither vegan nor vegetarian. This would elevate the salad to a whole new level and make it more of a meal.

Tips for making this gluten-free pasta salad recipe

1. Opt for high-quality gluten-free pasta to ensure it holds up well after cooking. We use a penne or fusilli made from rice and quinoa and found it to be a combination that works well for salads.
2. Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking.
3. I like to add the dressing in advance and let the salad sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a delightful meal, serve it on a mezze platter with hummus, GF pita bread, and grilled vegetables.

Complementary foods that go well with this salad include grilled chicken, simple grilled fish, or corned beef.

Some readers have asked . . .

Can I make this salad a day ahead?

Absolutely. I find that dressing soaks into the pasta, making it a bit softer and more flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?

We store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It usually keeps well for up to three days.

Our gluten-free pasta salad recipe

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