I am gluten free and allergic to almonds. So it is so important to me to provide easy gluten free recipes without tree nuts. When I first found out about my allegies I found it hard to find recipes that cater to more than one food allergy or restriction. Since then, it is so important that all my recipes cater to people with multiple dietary restrictions and/or food allergies! This recipe is gluten free, nut free and vegetarian. It can be made low fat, dairy free or vegan.
This easy gluten free pasta salad recipe is perfect for warm summer days and is made with simple ingredients. Pre-cooked ingredients like gluten-free tortellini and mozzarella balls minimize prep time.
Dinner’s ready in under 15 minutes, leaving you more time to relax or tackle other tasks. This classic italian pasta salad is also a perfect side dish or the perfect easy recipe for a summer picnic or summer bbq. This gluten-free pasta salad recipe is perfect as a main dish or as a side dish in place of a macaroni salad, just like my high protein gluten free pasta salad!
why you’ll love this recipe
- Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder! Boil the tortellini, drain it, and assemble the salad right in the same pot.
- Minimal cleanup means more time doing things you actually enjoy.
- Weeknights are a breeze with this recipe. It’s light enough for a satisfying summer meal but has enough substance to keep you going.
- Pack it up for a picnic or potluck and watch it disappear!
- Gluten-free friends and family rejoice! This recipe uses readily available gluten-free tortellini, so everyone can enjoy the deliciousness.
- For a low-fat option, simply use light olive oil and low-fat mozzarella balls, or skip the cheese altogether.
- Looking for a dairy-free twist? Swap the mozzarella for crumbled tofu or dairy-free cheese shreds, and use plant-based milk in a homemade vinaigrette.
- Want to save even more time? Wash and halve your tomatoes and chop the red onion in advance. Then, when hunger strikes, assembly takes mere minutes.
- This flexible cold pasta salad is your new go-to for easy, flavorful meals.
ingredients & substitutions
Tortellini: Use pre-cooked, gluten-free options for convenience. Spinach & ricotta or cheese fillings work well. You can also use your favorite brand of gluten-free pasta like lentil pasta. My favorite is jovial brown rice pasta. If you are not gluten free you can use regular pasta.
Cherry tomatoes: Add a sweet and juicy pop to this classic pasta salad.
Mozzarella balls: Creamy and mild, mini balls are easiest, but chopped fresh mozzarella cheese works too. For dairy-free, try crumbled tofu or vegan cheese shreds.
Red onion: Adds a bit of crunch and sharp flavor. Not a fan? Skip it, or use green onion for a milder bite.
Olive oil: Light and flavorful, the extra virgin olive oil keeps the salad from feeling heavy. Use any olive oil you have on hand or sub italian dressing. Feel free to use extra dressing if needed.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil is a great way to bring brightness to the salad. Don’t have them? Dried versions work in a pinch, or try other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
Oregano: Earthy and subtle, adds a touch of complexity. Can be omitted if you prefer simpler flavors.
Salt & pepper: Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
taste & texture
Bite into a chewy tortellini filled with ricotta or spinach, then pop a juicy cherry tomato. The creaminess of the easy gluten free pasta salad cheese meets the freshness of the tomatoes in a fun contrast. Red onion gives a great texture and peppery zing. The herbs add a bright, almost minty taste. Light olive oil keeps it from feeling heavy, and oregano whispers a hint of earthiness. Simple, refreshing, and perfect for a hot day!
directions
Step 1
Cook the tortellini: Follow the package directions to cook the gluten-free tortellini. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the tortellini cool completely.
Step 2
Prepare the vegetables and herbs: While the tortellini cools, halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes, depending on their size. Chop the fresh mozzarella balls, if using. Dice the red onion and mince the fresh parsley and basil.
Step 3
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, red onion, parsley, basil, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 4
Season and serve: Season the easy gluten free pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
expert tips & tricks
- For a richer flavor in your easy gluten free pasta salad, use a flavored olive oil, like garlic or lemon infused.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a brighter taste.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and basil.
- If you prefer a heartier salad, add cooked protein like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
- This easy gluten free pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make this your own, feel free to add fresh basil, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, snap peas, extra protein or garbanzo beans.
how to make this low carb
For a low-carb easy gluten free pasta salad, swap the tortellini for spiralized zucchini or low-carb shirataki noodles.
how to make this low fat or healthier
For a low fat easy gluten free pasta salad, tyou can also omit the mozzarella balls entirely or use a small amount of grated parmesan cheese for a touch of cheesy flavor. To keep it low-fat, use light olive oil and opt for low-fat mozzarella balls or skip them altogether.
how to make this vegan
You can also use crumbled tofu or a similar low-fat cheese alternative for a vegan easy gluten free pasta salad. Also use vegan tortillini for a vegan option.
how to serve, store and meal prep
Chill your assembled easy gluten free pasta salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve it cold alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or enjoy it on its own. For longer storage, pack leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing the salad isn’t recommended as the thawed texture of the tortellini and vegetables might become mushy.
For meal prep, assemble the easy gluten free pasta salad individual portions in containers and store them in the fridge. You can reheat them quickly in the microwave on low power, but be sure to stir frequently and avoid overcooking to preserve the texture. Alternatively, enjoy the salad chilled right from the fridge, making it a grab-and-go lunch option for busy weekdays.
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Easy Gluten Free Pasta Salad (Nut free, Vegetarian)
Ingredients
- 3-4 cups cooked gluten-free tortellini spinach & ricotta, cheese, or your favorite flavor
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved or quartered
- 1 cup mozzarella balls mini or chopped fresh mozzarella
- 3 tablespoons diced red onion
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions to cook the gluten-free tortellini. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the tortellini cool completely.
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs: While the tortellini cools, halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes, depending on their size. Chop the fresh mozzarella balls, if using. Dice the red onion and mince the fresh parsley and basil.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, red onion, parsley, basil, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season and serve: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
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