This Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that bursts with the flavors of summer! Loaded with colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, it’s simply irresistible.
I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy nights! Just toss everything in a pan, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time. Don’t forget to sprinkle some cheese on top for extra yum! 🧀🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for spaghetti, but any pasta you love will work! Try penne, fusilli, or even zoodles for a gluten-free option. Fresh pasta gives a great texture, too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and vibrant, these tomatoes add color and flavor. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes are a fantastic option, or you could use diced regular tomatoes instead, just be sure to cook them longer until they soften.
Fresh Basil: This herb brings a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch; just use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: This is key for taste and cooking the garlic. A good extra virgin olive oil makes a difference! If you’re out, avocado oil can be a nice alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: I love freshly grated Parmesan because it melts beautifully. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta may seem simple, but there are a few tricks for making it just right. First, always use a big pot of salted boiling water; this helps flavor the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the pasta once the water is bubbling. Stir it right away to prevent sticking!
- Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for spaghetti. Aim for ‘al dente’ – that firm bite.
- Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s starchy and helps your sauce cling to the pasta, making it creamier.
How to Make Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Other Essentials:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and delicious pasta dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a perfect option for a light summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. Once drained, return the pasta to the pot.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Tomatoes:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant; be careful not to let it brown, as it can become bitter.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to burst and soften. This will create a lovely sauce for your pasta.
4. Combine the Pasta and Tomato Mixture:
Now, combine the cooked spaghetti with the tomato mixture in the skillet. If the pasta looks a little dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Mix in the Goodness:
Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the pasta with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Toss everything together thoroughly until well combined and heated through.
6. Serve it Up:
Transfer your delicious Summer Garden Pasta to a serving bowl. Don’t forget to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before diving in. Enjoy this refreshing dish with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking durations.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead. A good rule of thumb is to use one-third of the amount; so for this recipe, about 1 tablespoon of dried basil should suffice. However, nothing quite matches the flavor of fresh basil, so try to use it if you can!
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta?
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Of course! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions for extra protein. Simply cook your choice of protein separately and toss it in with the pasta during the last step. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
