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colorful gluten free pasta salad in a serving bowl

My #1 Ultimate Gluten Free Pasta Salad: So Fresh!

This gluten-free pasta salad is a vibrant combination of pasta, veggies, and creamy Italian dressing. Packed with artichoke hearts, black olives, and mozzarella, it’s a flavorful side or main dish perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6-8 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

1 (12-ounce) box gluten-free Rotini or Penne pasta (Barilla gluten-free recommended)

1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (water- or brine-packed)

1 cup black olives, halved or sliced

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced (or fresh mozzarella pearls)

1 cup roasted red peppers, diced (from a jar)

Fresh chopped basil, optional, for garnish

For the Creamy Italian Dressing:

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram

1 1/2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons sugar

1 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s recommended)

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, artichoke hearts, black olives, grape tomatoes, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil (if using).

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients: garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, dried marjoram, salt, black pepper, sugar, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and Parmesan cheese.

  • Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

 

  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan.

  • Add grilled chicken, salami, or chickpeas for extra protein.

  • Feel free to substitute veggies like cucumber, carrots, or snap peas for variety.

  • Author: Alana
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: gluten free pasta salad, creamy Italian dressing, easy summer salad, gluten free recipes