Gluten Free Dairy Free: 5 Reasons to Love This BLT Pasta Salad

Gluten Free Dairy Free

Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines wholesome ingredients and a creamy avocado dressing. This salad is not only delicious but also ideal for those following a gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyle. Whether you’re packing lunch for the week or hosting a picnic, this salad is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Dairy Free

This salad boasts numerous benefits, making it a staple for anyone on an allergy-friendly diet. First, it is entirely dairy-free, perfect for those avoiding lactose. Second, the use of gluten-free pasta ensures that it is suitable for individuals with celiac disease, making it a celiac-safe diet option. Third, it’s packed with fresh veggies, providing essential nutrients. Fourth, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Additionally, it can be served cold, making it a refreshing choice for hot days. Lastly, it is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite add-ins to create your perfect salad.

Gluten Free Dairy Free: 5 Reasons to Love This BLT Pasta Salad - Gluten Free Dairy Free - main visual representation

Ingredients for Gluten Free Dairy Free

Gather these items:

  • 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ⅓ cup dairy-free mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Gluten Free Dairy Free Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, dairy-free mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and romaine lettuce.
  4. Step 4: Pour the avocado dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Step 5: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
  6. Step 6: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve cold and enjoy.

Gluten Free Dairy Free: 5 Reasons to Love This BLT Pasta Salad - Gluten Free Dairy Free - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Perfect Gluten Free Dairy Free

Keep these in mind:

  • Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.
  • Chill the salad longer for more flavor infusion.
  • Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Best Ways to Serve Gluten Free Dairy Free

This salad is perfect as a main dish or as a side at your next barbecue. Pair it with grilled vegetables or serve it alongside gluten-free rolls. It’s also great for meal prep; divide it into containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Store and Reheat Gluten Free Dairy Free

To store, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just grab it from the fridge and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten Free Dairy Free

What’s the secret to perfect Gluten Free Dairy Free?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and allowing the salad to chill adequately. This helps all the flavors meld together perfectly, leading to a refreshing dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Can I make Gluten Free Dairy Free ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Gluten Free Dairy Free?

Avoid overcooking the pasta as it can become mushy. Also, ensure that the avocados are ripe for the best dressing consistency. Finally, adjust seasoning to your taste just before serving.

Variations of Gluten Free Dairy Free You Can Try

For a twist on this recipe, consider adding cooked bacon for a traditional BLT flavor or swap romaine for spinach for a different texture. You can also incorporate beans for extra protein or add nuts for a crunchy finish. The possibilities are endless!

For more information on the benefits of cherry tomatoes in your diet, check out this article. If you’re interested in more salad recipes, we have plenty to explore. Additionally, learn about onions and their nutritional benefits.

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Gluten Free Dairy Free: 5 Reasons to Love This BLT Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and creamy Gluten Free Dairy Free BLT Pasta Salad packed with fresh veggies, juicy tomatoes, and a rich avocado-based dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches.

  • Author: Andrew
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing and Blending
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • ⅓ cup dairy-free mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, dairy-free mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and romaine lettuce.
  4. Pour the avocado dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
  6. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve cold and enjoy.

Notes

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 cup
    • Calories: 330
    • Sugar: 2g
    • Sodium: 700mg
    • Fat: 16g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 39g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Protein: 5g
    • Cholesterol: 0mg

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    Hi! I’m Margaret!

    A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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