The Best Vegetarian Pasta Salad

Have you ever been to a church potluck? When I was a kid, I loved them. I remember the church potlucks specifically because our congregation had what seemed like a thousand people (probably less) and therefore the selection of food was out of this world. Since my childhood church potluck days, I’ve also attended work potlucks, and neighbourhood potlucks. One has remained a common denominator to all potlucks: the pasta salad.  There is always a pasta salad, if not several to choose from. 

You are either team pasta salad or not.

I’ve eaten pasta salads made so many different ways, it would be too long of a list to share. From extra rich and creamy, to loaded with meaty toppings. I know what I like and friends – I like this way the best.

In my humble (awesome) opinion, I think that a delicious pasta salad should have plenty of vegetables, a light tangy homemade dressing, and a sprinkling of sharp cheese. If you don’t eat dairy, then may I suggest a Vegan Parmesan? 

With that combination, you can create a winning pasta salad that complements many main meals and is a guarantee show stopper at your next potluck.

Which pasta cut works well for pasta salads? My preference is either spiral (rotini) or penne. For this recipe, I used a gluten-free vegetable rotini pasta for the taste and appearance; colourful pasta sure makes a lovely presentation! 

I’m serving this up as our main meal for a delectable meatless monday. Try it and tell me if it isn’t the very best pasta salad you’ve ever had! 

Sssshhhhh…..I promise I won’t tell Grandma.

The Best Vegetarian Pasta (gluten-free)

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• Author: Emily Smith

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Ingredients

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• 1 (12-oz) package of gluten-free vegetable rotini pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 (8-oz) package sliced mushrooms, halved
• 1 (12 oz) jar marinated artichokes, cut into thirds (save the juice for dressing)
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 can black olives, sliced
• 6 oz feta cheese

DRESSING

• Reserved marinade from artichokes
• 1/2 c. olive oil
• 4 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
• 2 tsp. fresh cilantro, chopped finely
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Cook and drain pasta, no need for rinsing.
2. Prepare all vegetables, toss in a large mixing bowl. Add the pasta.
3. In a large jar, mix dressing ingredients. Close top and shake well to incorporate. Pour over pasta and chopped vegetables. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Add in feta before serving and stir to combine.
5. Serve and enjoy this fresh, healthy salad!

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6

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Emily Smith

Emily Smith, Editor of The Best of This Life, has been crafting lifestyle content and delicious recipes for over a decade. Featured on platforms like BRIT + CO, Today's Parent, and Chatelaine, she writes about family, food, home, and wellness, inspiring readers to live well and savour life's beauty. Based in Ottawa, she shares her adventures with her husband, two beautiful kids, and their mischievous cat, Zoro.

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