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If you’re looking for the perfect summer side dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this Gluten Free Greek Pasta Salad checks every box. Tender gluten-free penne pasta is tossed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, salty Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and a simple homemade Greek vinaigrette that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Whether you’re heading to a backyard barbecue, packing lunch for work, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an easy side dish for grilled chicken or burgers, this pasta salad is guaranteed to disappear fast.

The best part? It comes together in about 20 minutes and actually tastes even better after it has chilled, making it the perfect make-ahead recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally gluten free
• Ready in about 20 minutes
• Perfect for meal prep
• Great for potlucks and barbecues
• Made with simple, fresh ingredients
• Easy to customize
• Tastes even better the next day

If you love Mediterranean flavors, this is one recipe you’ll find yourself making all summer long.

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What Makes Greek Pasta Salad So Good?

Traditional Greek salad is famous for combining fresh vegetables with feta cheese, olives, oregano, and olive oil. This recipe transforms those same bright flavors into a satisfying pasta salad that’s hearty enough for lunch yet light enough to serve as a side dish.

Using gluten-free pasta means everyone at the table can enjoy it, whether you have celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or simply prefer eating gluten free.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gluten-Free Penne Pasta

I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free penne that holds its shape well after cooking.

Some of my favorites include:

• Jovial Brown Rice Penne
• Barilla Gluten-Free Penne
• Banza Chickpea Penne (for extra protein)

Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become too soft after mixing.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A good quality olive oil creates a rich, flavorful dressing.

Red Wine Vinegar

Adds brightness and the classic Greek salad tang.

Dried Oregano

The signature Mediterranean herb that gives this pasta salad its authentic flavor.

Salt & Pepper

Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Feta Cheese

Creamy, tangy feta is one of the stars of this recipe.

For the best flavor, buy a block of feta and crumble it yourself.

Kalamata Olives

These briny olives add incredible depth of flavor.

Tomatoes

I love using Cherub or grape tomatoes because they’re naturally sweet and juicy.

English Cucumber

English cucumbers have fewer seeds and stay crisp longer, making them perfect for pasta salads.

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How to Make Gluten-Free Greek Pasta Salad

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the gluten-free penne according to the package directions until al dente.

Drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to drain well before transferring it to a large mixing bowl.

While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing.

In a small bowl whisk together:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Add the cooled pasta to a large serving bowl along with:

• Crumbled feta cheese
• Kalamata olives
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers

Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently until evenly coated.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

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Tips for the Best Greek Pasta Salad

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Gluten-free pasta can become soft quickly, so cook it just until al dente.

Rinse with Cold Water

Cooling the pasta immediately prevents it from sticking together.

Use Block Feta

Freshly crumbled feta has a creamier texture and better flavor than pre-crumbled cheese.

Chill Before Serving

The flavors become even better after sitting in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

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Easy Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile.

Try adding:

• Grilled chicken
• Grilled shrimp
• Chickpeas
• Roasted red peppers
• Banana peppers
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh dill
• Spinach
• Artichoke hearts

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Make It a Complete Meal

Pair this Greek pasta salad with:

• Grilled chicken
• Burgers
• Steak
• Grilled salmon
• Chicken kabobs
• Greek meatballs
• Shawarma chicken

It’s also delicious served alongside my Greek Meatballs with Spinach & Feta or Ground Chicken Shawarma Tacos.

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Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing overnight, simply drizzle in a little extra olive oil before serving.

This recipe is not recommended for freezing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better after chilling for several hours.

What gluten-free pasta works best?

Penne, rotini, and fusilli all hold the dressing beautifully.

Can I make this dairy free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta or substitute your favorite dairy-free feta.

Can I add protein?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, chickpeas, or even grilled salmon are delicious additions.

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Expert Tips

• Salt your pasta water well for maximum flavor.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing.
• Toss gently so the feta stays in larger crumbles.
• Refrigerate before serving for the freshest flavor.

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More Gluten-Free Mediterranean Recipes You’ll Love

• Greek Meatballs with Spinach & Feta
• Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
• Mediterranean Bowls
• Ground Chicken Shawarma Tacos
• Easy Homemade Hummus