This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a fresh and colorful dish that celebrates summer veggies like zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Tossed with olive oil and garlic, it’s light and tasty!
I love making this pasta when my garden is bursting with veggies. It’s quick to prepare and so refreshing—perfect for hot days. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s mostly vegetables? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta cooks quickly and pairs nicely with the fresh ingredients. If you’re looking for a whole wheat or gluten-free option, try using whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free pasta like brown rice or quinoa pasta.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, cherry tomatoes add flavor and color. If you don’t have them, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes. For an extra twist, roasted tomatoes add a deeper flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil brings a fragrant touch that is perfect for summer. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor won’t be as bright. Parsley or arugula can also be a nice substitute for a different flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a savory touch to the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can offer a cheese-like flavor. Alternatively, pecorino or asiago can be used if you want something saltier.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right can sometimes be tricky! Here’s how to nail that al dente texture:
- Start with a large pot of water and make sure to salt it well; it should taste like the sea. This enhances the pasta flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir it a bit right after adding to prevent sticking.
- Refer to the package instructions for cooking time, but taste a minute earlier to check for doneness. You want it to be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Once done, drain the pasta but don’t rinse it. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps the sauce adhere to the noodles.
Perfect pasta is a key to a delightful dish, so pay a little extra attention here for the best results!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta (or thin spaghetti)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of just 20 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick dinner or a nice lunch on a warm day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your angel hair pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Tomato Mixture:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large bowl. Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, red pepper flakes (if using), along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined—this is where the fresh flavors start to blend!
3. Mixing the Pasta:
Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and toss everything gently to make sure the pasta is coated and all the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Adding Cheese and Final Touches:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss again until the cheese is well incorporated. You’ll start to see those delicious flavors really come together!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to plate up your garden pasta! Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh summer flavors!
This simple and vibrant pasta dish is a celebration of summer produce—just perfect for those warm, sunny days!
FAQ for Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This pasta is very versatile. You can add other summer veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook quickly and blend well with the pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works great for adding a cheesy flavor. You can also use crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different taste. Asiago or Pecorino can be used for a sharper cheese flavor if you prefer something stronger.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the tomato mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture. Just remember to mix everything together while the pasta is still warm to help meld the flavors!
