This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and tasty dish filled with fresh veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s perfect for a warm day!
Making this pasta is a breeze! Just cook, toss in your favorite veggies, and drizzle with olive oil. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or angel hair for a light texture. If you’re gluten-free, you can opt for a gluten-free pasta like quinoa or brown rice pasta, which work well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are key for sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes, but reduce cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives that fresh garden flavor. If you don’t have basil, consider using parsley or arugula, though the taste will differ.
Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy finish, Parmesan is fantastic. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that still offers a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta may seem simple, but timing is essential. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use plenty of salted water—don’t skimp on salt! It enhances flavor.
- Follow package instructions and keep an eye on the clock for al dente texture; it should be firm yet tender.
- Before draining, reserve a cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help adjust sauce consistency later.
- Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it. This keeps the starch that helps sauce stick.
With these tips, you’ll have delightful pasta every time!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Summer Garden Pasta will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, light meal perfect for summer evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before you drain the pasta. This starchy water can help to bring everything together later!
2. Prepare the Summer Veggies:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, and if you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix everything together. The combination of fresh tomatoes and garlic will create a lovely aroma!
3. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is coated in the olive oil and combined with the tomatoes. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will also help to create a nice sauce.
4. Add Fresh Basil:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped fresh basil! This adds a fantastic garden-fresh flavor to your pasta. Toss everything again to mix the basil evenly throughout the dish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your pasta to a serving bowl or plate. Top it with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately, while it’s fresh and warm. Enjoy your delicious summer garden pasta!
This dish highlights delightful summer ingredients and is light enough for warm weather, making it the perfect quick meal for any occasion!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any of your favorite summer veggies, like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just sauté them briefly before adding the tomatoes to ensure they’re tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to restore moisture.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative, like nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What Can I Serve with Summer Garden Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread. For a more filling meal, serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp on the side!
