This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a colorful dish packed with fresh veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something light and tasty!
I love how quick this pasta comes together—just boil the noodles, toss in the veggies, and add a splash of olive oil. Dinner is ready before you know it, leaving you more time to enjoy the sunshine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair work well for this dish. If you’re looking to cut carbs, try zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta as alternatives. They add great texture and flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: Using fresh cherry tomatoes provides sweetness. If they’re out of season, any small tomatoes like grape or even diced regular tomatoes can be used. Roasting them enhances their flavor if you have more time.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds an aromatic touch. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work, but use less (about 1 teaspoon). You might also enjoy parsley, oregano, or even spinach for a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the strong flavor it brings. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but the taste will be milder. I’d recommend using fresh whenever possible!
How Do You Make the Best Garden Pasta with Fresh Ingredients?
The theme of this recipe is using fresh, simple ingredients. To get the most out of them, consider these tips:
- Always season your pasta water with salt; it enhances the pasta flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be firm to the bite (al dente) so it holds up better when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Mix the garlic and oil quickly with the hot pasta right after draining to release the aroma of garlic.
- Gently fold in the tomatoes and basil instead of mixing vigorously—this keeps the tomatoes intact and helps preserve fresh basil flavor.
Remember, this dish is best served right away for that fresh taste. Enjoy your summer pasta with a glass of iced tea or lemonade!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy summer evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
While your pasta is cooking, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Also, roughly chop the fresh basil leaves. Set these aside as they’ll add a burst of flavor!
3. Make the Garlic Oil Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This will create a flavorful base for your pasta.
4. Toss the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta into the bowl with the garlic oil. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Veggies:
Next, gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes; you want them to stay intact for a nice bite!
6. Finish with Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss lightly again to mix everything together. The cheese adds a lovely creaminess to the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Summer Garden Pasta is ready to be served! Plate it up, and consider garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a lovely presentation. Enjoy this fresh and light meal!
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute gluten-free pasta in place of traditional spaghetti or angel hair. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
How Can I Customize This Pasta Dish?
This recipe is very versatile! You can add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
If you’d like to prepare it ahead of time, cook the pasta and prepare the garlic oil mixture in advance. Store the ingredients separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just combine everything and toss in the tomatoes and basil for a fresh finish!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid drying it out.
