This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and colorful dish full of fresh veggies! With tomatoes, zucchini, and basil, it tastes like summer on a plate.
I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for those lazy evenings when cooking feels like too much. Plus, it’s a great way to use up all those garden goodies! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair works great here, but feel free to swap in whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties. I personally love using whole wheat for added nutrition.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are perfect, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well! Sun-dried tomatoes are another tasty alternative.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that summery flavor, but if you don’t have any, try using fresh parsley or even spinach. Just keep it fresh and bright.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. It won’t be the same, but it can still bring great flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Fresh Ingredients?
To bring out the best in your fresh veggies, let them sit with the olive oil and seasonings before adding the pasta. This short wait helps the tomatoes release their juices and the garlic infuse the oil.
- Combine the chopped tomatoes, garlic, and basil with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Allow it to rest while you cook the pasta; about 5 minutes is perfect.
- This way, the flavors mix and intensify, making each bite delicious!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick summer meal. You’ll love how fast it comes together while still being fresh and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in your spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large bowl and combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and brings out the juiciness of the tomatoes!
3. Mix Everything Together:
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with those tasty ingredients.
4. Add Cheese and Final Touches:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and give it another gentle toss to mix everything evenly. It’s time to make it look pretty, so garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and more Parmesan cheese if you’d like.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
This pasta can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any summer gathering. Enjoy your refreshing meal and savor the taste of summer!
FAQ about Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just chop them up and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes. If you want to sauté them, do that for a few minutes before adding to the mix.
How Can I Make This Pasta Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available, like chickpea or brown rice pasta, which will work beautifully with the fresh ingredients!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or serve cold for a refreshing pasta salad.
Can I Prepare This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh right before serving for the best texture. Mix them together before serving for a delightful meal!
