Gluten-Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Red Lentil Pasta

In gluten-free dining, the quest for tasty alternatives often leads to exciting culinary discoveries. Red lentil pasta, with its hearty texture, robust flavor, and beautiful color, presents a fantastic option for those seeking gluten-free alternatives without compromising taste or nutrition. Let's dive into the realm of Mediterranean flavors to create a vibrant and satisfying gluten-free Mediterranean pasta salad featuring this versatile ingredient. I was able to find all of these fresh ingredients at my local Aldi. If you haven't checked them out yet, they carry a delicious line of gluten-free foods!

The Beauty of Red Lentil Pasta: Red lentil pasta is a game-changer for those following a gluten-free lifestyle. Made solely from red lentil flour, it boasts a remarkable nutritional profile, packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This pasta offers a delicious taste and a satisfyingly hearty texture, making it an ideal substitute for traditional wheat-based pasta in various dishes. One serving has over 22g of protein!

How to Make Gluten-Free Pasta Salad with a Mediterranean Twist

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces of red lentil pasta (whole box!)

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/2 cup cucumber, finely diced

• 1/2 red onion, chopped

• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup Mediterranean salad dressing

Instructions:

1. Cook the red lentil pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, feta

3. Add the cooked and cooled red lentil pasta to the bowl and gently toss to combine all the ingredients.

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. If desired, sprinkle extra crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad for an extra burst of flavor.

6. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Enjoying the Mediterranean Flavors: This gluten-free Mediterranean pasta salad is a celebration of vibrant colors and fresh flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy feta cheese creates a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate with each bite. The red lentil pasta serves as the perfect canvas, soaking up the delicious dressing while providing a satisfyingly hearty texture.

What sets this pasta salad apart is its versatility. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish at a summer barbecue, or a wholesome dinner option, it never fails to impress. Plus, it's effortless to customize according to personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Simply add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost, or to make a complete meal.

Bursting with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors, it's a dish that appeals to both the palate and the senses. Whether you're following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and savor the vibrant goodness of this delightful dish!

Watch the full recipe HERE!