Memorial Day is just a couple of weeks away, which means BBQ season is in full swing.  One of the most popular sides at a BBQ are those delicious pasta salads.  The ideas of what to create for a pasta salad are endless.  I personally love adding fresh herbs to mine.  It makes for added freshness and taste.  To this salad I wanted to have a healthier choice on the pasta, so I found a red lentil gluten free penne pasta.  The combination of this salad is one that will make your guests keep coming back for more.  Make it in the spur of the moment or ahead of time.

Ingredients salad;

12 oz red lentil penne
10 cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1 cup pearl mozzarella balls
Salt & pepper, to taste
12 slices salami, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
14 oz can hearts of palm, chopped

Preparation:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Make sure to season the water with plenty of salt.  Follow the cooking instructions on the packaging.  Cook until AL DENTE about 10 minutes with this pasta.  Drain and cool off.

Place all the ingredients in a large bowl and set aside.

Ingredients dressing:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup lemon juice
Salt & pepper, to taste
8 pieces basil
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Preparation:

In a food processor add all of the ingredients.  Process until well combined.  Pour over salad.  Toss everything together and serve.

Check out the other great dishes from this week’s Food Network Blog #SensationalSides below

Feed Me Phoebe: Spicy Shrimp Pasta Salad with Asparagus and Sundried Tomatoes
The Lemon Bowl: Roasted Garlic Vegetable Pasta
TasteBook: Quick & Easy BLT Pasta Salad
Dishin & Dishes: Asian Noodle Salad
Weelicious: Summer Succotash Pasta Salad
Homemade Delish: Red Lentil Pasta Salad
The Mom 100: Pasta Salad and Salmon with Ramp Dressing
Napa Farmhouse 1885: Spring Pasta Salad With Sundried Tomatoes, Broccoli & Spinach
Taste with the Eyes: Lemon Ricotta Pasta Salad with Figs and Mint
FN Dish: Picnic Pasta Salad Season Is Here