Gluten-Free Classic Pasta Salad

Ingredients

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• 8 oz gluten-free rice pasta Shop
• 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp acid (lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or rice vinegar) Shop
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (verify GF) Shop
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 0.33 cup sliced black olives Shop
• 4 oz mozzarella pearls (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. 1 Cook the gluten-free rice pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically for about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking, then set aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. 2 While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, your chosen acid (lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or rice vinegar), gluten-free Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. If using, add the minced garlic and whisk until well combined and emulsified, about 1-2 minutes.
3. 3 Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, mozzarella if using, and herbs to the bowl with the pasta.
4. 4 Pour the prepared dressing over the gluten-free rice pasta and mix-ins. Toss everything gently for about 1-2 minutes until the pasta and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
5. 5 Allow the gluten-free pasta salad to marinate at room temperature for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the salad.

Nutrition (per serving)

Tips & Notes

• Cook the rice pasta to al dente or a minute less. It softens further as it absorbs the dressing.
• Toss the drained pasta with a little of the olive oil right away so it doesn't stick together while it cools.
• Rice pasta firms up in the refrigerator. Let leftovers sit out for 15 minutes and refresh them with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving.

Common questions