If you're looking for a fresh, healthy and easy gluten free pasta salad, this Gluten Free Caprese Pasta Salad is about to become your go-to recipe! Packed with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this summer side dish captures all the classic flavors of a traditional Caprese salad just with a hearty, gluten free twist.
Why You'll Love This Gluten Free Caprese Pasta Salad
The secret to keeping this recipe simple yet incredibly flavorful? Using Brianna's Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette. It's our favorite gluten free salad dressing and adds the perfect creamy coating on the pasta without needing to make your own dressing from scratch. Using a premade dressing keeps things simple, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your food!
- Quick and easy: prepped in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead lunches
- Fresh summer flavors with minimal ingredients
- Crowd-pleasing side dish for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks
This recipe is light but satisfying, simple but impressive, and full of wholesome ingredients you can feel good about serving your family. This gluten free pasta salad is the perfect option for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or meal prep.
Ingredients You'll Need to Make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Here's everything you need to make this easy gluten free Caprese pasta salad:
- 12 oz gluten free pasta (rotini or penne work best)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or chopped mozzarella)
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup chopped fresh spinach
- ½ cup Brianna's Balsamic Vinaigrette. Add more to taste before serving.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
If you love balsamic glaze for your caprese salad, feel free to add a drizzle on top! We love the certified gluten free balsamic glaze from Nonna Pia's.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caprese pasta salad gluten free?
Traditional Caprese salad is naturally gluten free. To make it a pasta salad, simply use certified gluten free pasta.
What is the best gluten free pasta for pasta salad?
Look for sturdy shapes like rotini or penne made from rice, corn, or chickpeas. These hold their texture better when chilled.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually tastes better after chilling for a bit, making it ideal for prepping ahead.
If you're looking for more gluten free salads for summer, I think you'll also love this Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Fresh Basil, and this Easy Broccoli Salad With Creamy Dressing
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Prep the Fresh Ingredients
Halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the basil and finely chop the fresh spinach so it blends evenly into the salad without overpowering it. If using a block of mozzarella, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooled pasta
- Tomatoes
- Mozzarella
- Chopped basil + chopped spinach
4. Add Dressing
Pour in the Balsamic Vinaigrette and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5. Chill & Serve
Season with salt and pepper. You can enjoy right away but I suggest chilling for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. Add extra dressing if needed to taste before serving.
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Add protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost
- Make it dairy-free: swap mozzarella for a plant-based alternative
- Boost flavor: add roasted garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan
- Avocado for creaminess
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch
What to Serve with Caprese Pasta Salad
This versatile side dish pairs well with so many meals!
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Burgers or hot dogs (gluten free, of course!)
- Sandwiches and wraps
It's especially perfect for summer cookouts, Easter brunch, or casual weeknight dinners.
This Gluten Free Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Dressing is the ultimate combination of convenience and fresh flavor. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, planning your weekly lunches, or just craving something light and satisfying, this recipe is delicious every time!
Have you tried this recipe? Be sure to leave a comment below and tag me on Instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out!
Let's Eat!
Gluten Free Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- While the pasta cooks, slice your cherry tomatoes in half and chop the fresh basil and spinach. If using a block of mozzarella, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach and basil.
- Pour in the Brianna's Balsamic Vinaigrette and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Can enjoy right away, but for best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Add more dressing to taste before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Comments
No Comments