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    Chopped Wedge Layer Salad

    This easy recipe for chopped wedge layer salad is made with chopped iceberg lettuce and ranch dressing. It is a healthy option for parties and barbecues. This is the best wedge salad variation made without blue cheese.

    a glass trifle dish of chopped wedge layer salad next to a stack of white plates.

    Wedge salads are a popular light meal and this option makes them easy to serve to a crowd. Instead of individual wedges of iceberg lettuce it is chopped and layered. I used my Gluten Free Homemade Ranch to top this salad.

    The Chopped Wedge Layer Salad is a visually striking and flavor-packed dish that takes the traditional wedge salad and reimagines it in a layered, trifle-style presentation.

    Perfect for gatherings and parties, this salad combines crisp iceberg lettuce with a medley of fresh vegetables and toppings, all arranged in distinct, colorful layers.

    It's a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead option that showcases the satisfying crunch and refreshing taste of a classic wedge salad while offering a modern twist suitable for larger servings.

    You may also enjoy my Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad, this Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad or my Gluten Free Green Goddess Pasta Salad. All are great summer lunch options!

    a white plate of chopped wedge layer salad.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Iceberg Lettuce
    • Black Beans
    • Sweet Onion
    • Roma Tomatoes
    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Ranch Dressing

    Instructions

    This is the easiest salad to put together! I've variated from a classic wedge salad and added beans, onion, tomato and cheese. You can omit any of these ingredients, but they make for a delicious salad.

    I used a glass trifle serving bowl for this salad, but you could use any large serving bowl. This clear serving bowl would also be really pretty.

    Simply chop up the lettuce, onion and tomato. Then drain and rinse the beans. Shred the cheddar cheese and then layer all of the ingredients into the bowl. Top with my Homemade Ranch Dressing or a dressing of your choice. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

    Substitutions

    • Black Beans - you can omit the black beans, use kidney beans or another bean of your choice to add some protein to this recipe.
    • Sweet Onion - you can use a white onion, yellow onion or red onion in this recipe.
    • Roma Tomatoes - vine ripened tomatoes or cherry tomatoes cut in half would also work nicely.
    • Cheddar Cheese - you can omit the cheese all together or you could substitute with Monterey Jack cheese or another variation of cheese.

    Supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I prepare lettuce for a chopped wedge salad?

    Remove the outer leaves and any brown spots from the head of iceberg lettuce. Cut the core and stem from the head of lettuce. Rinse the lettuce under cold water and flip with the open core facing down to let drain. Shake any excess water off.

    On a cutting board cut the head of lettuce in half. Slice the half into long rows and then chop those into squares. Repeat for the second half. If there is still too much water from rinsing place the chopped lettuce in a salad spinner to dry.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Seven Layer Salad
    • Southwestern Style Coleslaw
    • Gluten Free Caesar Dressing
    • Gluten Free Kale Caesar Salad

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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    Chopped Wedge Layer Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    4 from 1 review

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 15 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    This easy recipe for chopped wedge layer salad is made with chopped iceberg lettuce and ranch dressing. It is a healthy option for parties and barbecues. This is the best wedge salad variation made without blue cheese.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 head Iceberg Lettuce, cleaned and chopped
    • 15.5 ounce can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 large Sweet Onion, chopped
    • 4 Roma Tomatoes, seeded and chopped
    • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup Ranch Dressing

    Instructions

    Clean and chop the lettuce, onion and tomatoes. Shred the cheddar cheese. Make my gluten free ranch dressing or use store bought ranch dressing.

    In a trifle serving bowl or large serving bowl add the chopped lettuce, the beans, the chopped onion, the chopped tomatoes and the shredded cheese in layers. Top with ranch dressing.

    Serve immediately or refrigerate after assembly for up to 4 hours.

    Notes

    Since the dressing is already on this salad it will get soggy if left in the refrigerator for too long.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Chopped
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Storage

    The ingredients for this salad can be chopped up ahead of time. You can either store them separately in sealed containers in the refrigerator or place the lettuce, beans, onion and tomatoes in the trifle dish. Wait to add the cheese and dressing until right before serving so the salad doesn't get soggy.

    Once the dressing has been added the salad is only good for a day. If you have leftovers you can place them in an air tight container in the refrigerator, but they will only be good for about 24 hours.

    Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad

    This easy recipe for gluten free pesto pasta salad is a delicious summer side dish. It is a cold Italian pasta salad that uses creamy basil pesto. This healthy salad includes arugula, Cannellini beans and walnuts.

    a white bowl of gluten free pesto pasta salad next to a grater with a small block of parmesan cheese on it.

    This is one of my favorite summer lunches! If you want more protein than just the beans you can add tuna fish, canned sardines or chicken breast.

    If you are looking for more summer salad ideas you might also enjoy my Pineapple Coleslaw, Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad or my Gluten Free Green Goddess Pasta Salad.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]
    a bowl of gluten free pesto pasta salad next to a small wooden bowl of coarse salt.

    Ingredients

    • Gluten Free Elbow Pasta
    • Basil Pesto
    • Cannellini Beans
    • Baby Arugula
    • Parmesan Cheese
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • Walnuts

    Instructions

    Cook the past per the instructions on the package. Drain and rinse in cold water.

    In a large serving bowl add the pasta, pesto, beans, arugula, cheese, salt, pepper and walnuts. Stir to combine.

    Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

    Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    Supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you use pesto straight from the jar?

    Yes, you can use pesto cold right out of the refrigerator straight from the jar or if it's a shelf stable pesto right from the cupboard and out of the jar. You will want to stir the pesto if any oil has risen to the top.

    Is basil pesto gluten free?

    There are several store bought basil pestos you can purchase. I haven't seen any that state they are gluten free, but the ingredients don't include anything that contains gluten. This of course doesn't eliminate the possibility of cross contamination. I haven't had any issues using Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce.

    You can also make your own pesto pretty easily. Try my recipe: Gluten Free Homemade Walnut Pesto

    Substitutions

    • Elbow Noodles - you can use any gluten free pasta in this salad. I like the size of the elbow noodles, but penne, rotini or shells would also work nicely.
    • Basil Pesto - I love the flavor of basil pesto and find it easy to purchase at my local grocery story. However, you can use whatever basil you would like.
    • Walnuts - you could omit the walnuts for a nut free version of this salad, but I like the crunch they add.
    • Baby Arugula - you can replace this with spinach if you like.

    Storage

    You can store this salad in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an air tight container. If the salad gets dry add 1 teaspoon of olive oil or a bit more pesto if you have it.

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    Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 18 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    This easy recipe for gluten free pesto pasta salad is a delicious summer side dish. It is a cold Italian pasta salad that uses creamy basil pesto. This healthy salad includes arugula, cannellini beans and walnuts.


    Ingredients

    Scale

    16 ounce bag Gluten Free Elbow Pasta
    8 ounce jar Basil Pesto
    2 - 15.5 ounce cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed
    5 ounce package Baby Arugula, rinsed and dried
    ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated
    ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
    ¼ teaspoon Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    ⅓ cup Walnuts, chopped


    Instructions

    Cook the past per the instructions on the package. Drain and rinse in cold water.

    In a large serving bowl add the pasta, pesto, beans, arugula, cheese, salt, pepper and walnuts. Stir to combine.

    Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

    Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 8 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Stove Top
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Pineapple Coleslaw

    This pineapple coleslaw is the summer side dish that goes with absolutely everything and takes just 15 minutes to throw together. Fresh pineapple, coleslaw mix, cilantro, and diced jalapeno get tossed in a simple homemade dressing made with lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, and a touch of honey for a light, tropical, and completely mayo free slaw that is bright, fresh, and full of flavor.

    It is naturally gluten free, healthy, and so much better than anything from a store bought bag or bottle.

    a white serving bowl of pineapple coleslaw next to a bowl of fresh pineapple chunks.

    What makes this pineapple coleslaw so versatile is how well it pairs with so many different meals. It is the perfect topping for pulled pork sandwiches and Hawaiian style dishes, a fresh and crunchy addition to fish tacos and shrimp tacos, and a light and refreshing side dish for summer BBQs, cookouts, and potlucks.

    You can make it the day before and store it in the refrigerator overnight which actually makes it even better as the flavors develop and meld together.

    If you are looking for a crowd pleasing summer coleslaw recipe that is a little different from the classic mayo version this is the one you are going to keep coming back to all season long.

    It pairs well with my Slow Cooker Hawaiin Pork Tenderloin, my Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Bites or my Gluten Free Slow Cooker Hawaiin Meatballs.

    You can find all my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]
    a white serving bowl of pineapple coleslaw next to a white bowl of fresh pineapple chunks.

    Ingredients

    • Coleslaw Mix
    • Fresh Pineapple
    • Cilantro
    • Jalapeno
    • Lime Juice
    • Olive Oil
    • Lime Zest
    • Honey
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper

    Instructions

    Add the coleslaw mix, pineapple, cilantro and jalapeno to a large serving bowl. 

    In a small bowl whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, honey, salt and pepper. 

    Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and stir to combine.

    Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

    Supplies

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Southwestern Style Coleslaw
    • Gluten Free Coleslaw
    • Thai Style Cabbage Salad
    • Easy Apple Slaw with Poppyseed Dressing

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Pineapple Coleslaw


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 15 minutes
    • Yield: 8 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    This easy pineapple coleslaw is a light and tropical summer side dish made completely without mayo! Fresh pineapple, coleslaw mix, cilantro, and jalapeno are tossed in a simple homemade lime juice and honey dressing that is zesty, refreshing, and naturally gluten free. Ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for pulled pork, fish tacos, summer BBQs, and potlucks!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 2 bags Coleslaw Mix
    • 2 cups Fresh Pineapple, diced
    • ½ cup Cilantro, finely chopped
    • 1 small Jalapeno, finely diced
    • ¼ cup Lime Juice
    • ¼ cup Olive Oil
    • 2 Tbsp Lime Zest
    • 1 tsp Honey
    • ½ tsp Sea Salt
    • ¼ tsp Coarse Ground Black Pepper

    Instructions

    Add the coleslaw mix, pineapple, cilantro and jalapeno to a large serving bowl. 

    In a small bowl whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, honey, salt and pepper. 

    Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and stir to combine.

    Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Chopped
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you make this Pineapple Coleslaw I would love to hear what you served it with! Leave a star rating and a comment below and let me know how it turned out.

    Don't forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest boards so you can find it again all summer long!

    Top Tip

    Use fresh pineapple rather than canned for the best flavor and texture in this coleslaw. Fresh pineapple is sweeter, less watery, and holds up much better in the dressing without making the slaw soggy. Canned pineapple contains excess liquid that will water down the dressing and make the coleslaw wetter than it should be. If fresh pineapple is not available drain canned pineapple chunks very thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the bowl but fresh pineapple will always give you the best result.

    Substitutions

    • Coleslaw Mix - instead of using a pre-made mix you can cut up a head of cabbage, but be sure to follow the steps above if you make this substitution.
    • Fresh Pineapple - you can use drained pineapple chunks, but the salad won't have as much flavor. I highly recommend using fresh pineapple.
    • Olive Oil - you can substitute avocado oil if that's what you have.

    Storage

    Store this pineapple coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. This slaw actually gets better the longer it sits as the flavors develop and the dressing soaks into the cabbage and pineapple. Make it the day before you plan to serve it for the best possible flavor. Give it a good stir before serving as the dressing will settle to the bottom of the container as it sits. Because this coleslaw is made without mayo it holds up much better in the refrigerator than a traditional creamy coleslaw and is a great option for make ahead summer entertaining.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this pineapple coleslaw ahead of time?

    Yes and I actually recommend it! This coleslaw gets better the longer it sits in the refrigerator as the flavors develop and the dressing soaks into the cabbage and pineapple. Make it the day before you plan to serve it for the best possible flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. It keeps well for up to 3 to 5 days.

    Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

    Fresh pineapple is strongly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Fresh pineapple is sweeter, less watery, and holds up much better in the dressing without making the slaw soggy. If you cannot find fresh pineapple you can use canned pineapple chunks but make sure to drain them very thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the bowl. Too much liquid from canned pineapple will water down the dressing and make the coleslaw wetter than it should be.

    How do you keep coleslaw from getting soggy?

    This recipe uses pre made coleslaw mix which is less likely to release excess water than freshly chopped cabbage. If you prefer to chop your own cabbage, toss it with 2 teaspoons of salt and let it stand for 15 to 20 minutes to draw out the excess moisture. Rinse the salt off thoroughly and spin the cabbage dry in a salad spinner before adding the dressing.

    Can I make this coleslaw without cilantro?

    Yes! If you are not a fan of cilantro or simply do not have it on hand you can leave it out entirely or substitute fresh flat leaf parsley for a similar fresh herb flavor without the distinctive cilantro taste. The coleslaw will still be delicious and flavorful without it thanks to the fresh pineapple, lime dressing, and jalapeno.

    Can I make this coleslaw less spicy?

    Absolutely. The jalapeno adds a mild to medium heat level to this coleslaw depending on how spicy your particular pepper is. If you prefer a milder version simply reduce the amount of jalapeno or leave it out entirely. You can also remove the seeds and white membrane from the jalapeno before dicing it which significantly reduces the heat while keeping a hint of jalapeno flavor in the dressing.

    What do you serve pineapple coleslaw with?

    This pineapple coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many different dishes. It is the perfect topping for pulled pork sandwiches and Hawaiian style dishes like slow cooker Hawaiian pork tenderloin and Hawaiian meatballs. It is also wonderful on fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and grilled chicken. As a standalone side dish it is a refreshing and crowd pleasing option for summer BBQs, cookouts, and potlucks all season long.

    Black Beans and Corn Salad

    This easy recipe for black beans and corn salad is the perfect summer side dish! It's a zesty cold salad that you can make ahead. The vegan recipe is full of colorful veggies with a lime dressing.

    This Black Beans and Corn Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that's perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or as a fresh side for tacos.

    It's a refreshing combination of beans and corn salad flavors, offering a boost of plant-based protein in every bite.

    Whether you're looking for a vegetable potluck dish or a healthy lunch side, this colorful salad is easy to make and ideal for warm-weather meals.

    You can find all of my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    a small white bowl of black beans and corn salad next to a silver bowl of corn tortilla chips.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Black Beans
    • Whole Kernel Sweet Corn
    • Tomatoes
    • Sweet Onion
    • Cilantro
    • Minced Garlic
    • Olive Oil
    • White Vinegar
    • Lime Juice
    • Granulated Sugar
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • Ground Cumin

    Instructions

    In a large serving bowl add the beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, cilantro and garlic.

    In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, pepper and cumin. Pour over the salad veggies and stir to coat.

    Refrigerate in an air tight container for at least 1 hour before serving. I prefer to refrigerate overnight.

    Supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between black beans and corn salad and salsa?

    There is very little difference between this black beans and corn salad and a fresh black bean salsa. I love to eat this recipe on it's own as a salad side dish or as a dip with gluten free corn tortilla chips.

    How long does this salad last in the fridge?

    This salad will last in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I love to make it the day before I want to serve the salad or as a dip with tortilla chips. Making it the day before ensures it's really cold when you serve it and the flavors have time to meld together.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Healthy Mexican Street Corn Salad
    • Cheesy Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
    • Easy Fried Frozen Corn
    • Gluten Free Zucchini Squash and Corn Casserole

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Black Beans and Corn Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 15 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    This easy recipe for black beans and corn salad is the perfect summer side dish! It's a zesty cold salad that you can make ahead. The vegan recipe is full of colorful veggies with a lime dressing.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 15 ounce can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
    • 15.25 ounce can Whole Kernel Sweet Corn, drained
    • 2 Vine Ripe Tomatoes, chopped (about 1 cup)
    • 1 large Sweet Onion, finely chopped
    • ½ cup Cilantro, minced
    • 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
    • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
    • 2 Tbsp White Vinegar
    • 1 Tbsp Lime Juice
    • 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
    • ½ tsp Sea Salt
    • ½ tsp Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • ¼ tsp Ground Cumin

    Instructions

    In a large serving bowl add the beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, cilantro and garlic.

    In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, pepper and cumin. Pour over the salad veggies and stir to coat.

    Refrigerate in an air tight container for at least 1 hour before serving. I prefer to refrigerate overnight.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads, Dips
    • Method: Mixing
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Top Tip

    I love to serve this recipe as a side dish or with chips as a dip. Either way it is a delicious hit at gatherings! When serving it as a dip I like to use round gluten free corn tortilla chips. It is so refreshing on a hot day!

    Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad

    This gluten free BLT pasta salad is the cold pasta salad recipe you are going to want to make all summer long. It has everything you love about a classic BLT: crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed with tender gluten free fusilli pasta and a creamy homemade dressing made with mayo, sour cream, garlic, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

    Shredded cheddar cheese takes it completely over the top. It is hearty enough to serve as a lunch on its own and easy enough to throw together in about 30 minutes.

    a large white serving bowl of gluten free BLT pasta salad with wooden serving spoons.

    This is one of those gluten free side dishes that travels well, feeds a crowd, and disappears fast at every BBQ, potluck, and summer gathering I bring it to.

    The homemade dressing is the secret weapon here. It is tangy, creamy, and so much better than anything from a bottle.

    If you are looking for a cold pasta salad with bacon that everyone at the table can enjoy, gluten free or not, this is the recipe to bookmark.

    If you are looking for more pasta salad recipes try my Gluten Free Green Goddess Pasta Salad, my Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad, my Easy Gluten Free Bow Tie Pasta Salad, or my Easy Gluten Free Macaroni Salad.

    You can find all of my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    a white plate of gluten free BLT pasta salad next to a small wooden bowl of salt.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Gluten Free Fusilli Pasta
    • Bacon
    • Minced Garlic
    • Green Onions
    • Romaine Lettuce
    • Cherry Tomatoes
    • Sour Cream
    • Mayonnaise
    • Apple Cider Vinegar
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • Cheddar Cheese

    Instructions

    Cook the bacon and let it cool. Chop the bacon into small chunks. Set aside.

    Cook the pasta per the instructions on the box. Drain the pasta and rinse in cold water. Add to a large serving bowl.

    In the large serving bowl also add the bacon, onions, lettuce, tomatoes and shredded cheese.

    In a small bowl whisk together the minced garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the salad. Stir the salad to coat with the dressing.

    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

    This salad is best served the same day, but will keep for up to 2 days before the lettuce gets too soggy.

    Supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does gluten free pasta salad last in the fridge?

    This salad keeps in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. After that the lettuce will begin to wilt and the texture will suffer. Because the dressing contains mayonnaise, be sure to refrigerate the salad promptly after serving and do not leave it sitting out for more than two hours.

    How do you keep gluten free pasta from getting hard in a cold pasta salad?

    Cook your gluten free pasta slightly past al dente. You want it a little softer than you would for a hot pasta dish because it will firm up as it chills. Rinsing it in cold water immediately after draining stops the cooking and prevents clumping. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing as it sits, drizzle a little extra mayo or a splash of apple cider vinegar over the top and toss before serving.

    Can I make this BLT pasta salad ahead of time?

    You can make this salad a few hours ahead, but because it contains romaine lettuce, it is best assembled and served the same day. If you want to get ahead, cook the pasta, bacon, and dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Toss everything together with the lettuce and tomatoes right before serving for the freshest result.

    What gluten free pasta works best for this recipe?

    Gluten free fusilli is ideal because the spiral shape holds onto the creamy dressing really well. You could also use gluten free rotini, penne, or shells. Whatever you choose, stick with a rice based or rice and corn blend pasta for the best texture in a cold salad. Avoid bean based pastas here as they tend to get mushy and fall apart once chilled

    Can I add protein to make this a main dish?

    Absolutely. Grilled or rotisserie chicken is a great addition if you want to turn this into a heartier meal. Diced ham also works beautifully with the BLT flavor profile. Just add your protein when you assemble the salad and toss everything together with the dressing as usual.

    Can I use a different dressing?

    The homemade mayo and sour cream dressing is what makes this salad special, but you can swap in a bottled ranch dressing if you are short on time. Just make sure to check the label to confirm it is certified gluten free. My creamy Caesar dressing would also be delicious here and plays nicely with the romaine and bacon.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • The Best Old Fashioned Chicken Salad
    • Gluten Free Green Goddess Pasta Salad
    • Sugar Free Broccoli Salad
    • Easy Pea Salad

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    This gluten free BLT pasta salad is a creamy, crowd-pleasing cold pasta salad loaded with crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar, and tender gluten free fusilli, all tossed in a tangy homemade mayo and sour cream dressing. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and summer gatherings.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 12 ounce box Gluten Free Fusilli Pasta, cooked and drained
    • 8 slices Bacon, cooked and chopped
    • 6 Green Onions, chopped
    • 4 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped (approximately one head of lettuce)
    • 10 ounces Cherry Tomatoes, cut in half
    • 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
    • ½ cup Sour Cream
    • ½ cup Mayonnaise
    • 2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
    • ½ tsp Sea Salt
    • ¼ tsp Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded

    Instructions

    Cook the bacon and let it cool. Chop the bacon into small chunks. Set aside.

    Cook the pasta per the instructions on the box. Drain the pasta and rinse in cold water. Add to a large serving bowl.

    In the large serving bowl also add the bacon, onions, lettuce, tomatoes and shredded cheese.

    In a small bowl whisk together the minced garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the salad. Stir the salad to coat with the dressing.

    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

    This salad is best served the same day, but will keep for up to 2 days before the lettuce gets too soggy.

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 10 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish, Salads
    • Method: Mixing
    • Cuisine: American

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    Storage

    Store leftover BLT pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the romaine lettuce will begin to wilt after the first day, so this salad is always best eaten the same day it is made. Because the dressing contains mayonnaise, do not leave the salad sitting at room temperature for more than two hours. This salad is not suitable for freezing.

    Top Tip

    Rinse your cooked pasta thoroughly in cold water and let it drain completely before adding it to the bowl. Gluten free pasta soaks up dressing faster than regular pasta, so giving it a good rinse and a few extra minutes to drain means your dressing stays creamy and coats every bite instead of disappearing into the noodles.

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