Ingredients
Marinated Tomato Mixture
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes (halved) or diced heirloom tomatoes (or a mix)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini, butter, or gigante beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 ounces sundried tomatoes packed in oil (about 1/2 cup, thinly sliced)
- 4 ounces pitted kalamata or Castelvetrano olives (about 1 cup, drained and roughly chopped)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, torn
- 12 ounces gluten-free farfalle or fusilli pasta
Instructions
- Marinate the Tomato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed and drained white beans, thinly sliced sundried tomatoes, chopped olives, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly and let the mixture marinate at room temperature while preparing the pasta, or cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the gluten-free farfalle or fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water until it reaches room temperature to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
- Toss Pasta with Tomato Mixture: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl containing the marinated tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently to combine the flavors evenly and coat the pasta well with the dressing.
- Add Fresh Basil and Season: Just before serving, add the torn fresh basil leaves to the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary. Serve the gluten-free Italian pasta salad either at room temperature or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- The salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; flavors intensify over time.
- Use gluten-free pasta varieties such as farfalle or fusilli for texture and shape that hold the dressing well.
- For a vegan version, ensure sundried tomatoes are oil-packed without animal-derived ingredients.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free