This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and fun dish packed with fresh seasonal veggies. Think ripe tomatoes, crisp zucchini, and vibrant peppers tossed with pasta. Yum!
You can whip this up in just 30 minutes! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. Perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light but tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for its classic texture, but angel hair works great too! If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free pasta like brown rice or quinoa pasta. It’s just as tasty!
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add a burst of flavor! If they’re out of season, you can use diced canned tomatoes instead, but fresh provides a lovely sweetness.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a fragrant note! If you don’t have it, try parsley or oregano, though it won’t have the same sweetness. Dried basil is a last resort, but use less than fresh as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty touch. If you’re dairy-free, a nutritional yeast sprinkle can replicate a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Combine the Flavors in This Pasta Dish?
Combining the ingredients properly is key for flavor. Start by mixing the fresh tomatoes with garlic and basil in a big bowl while the pasta cooks. This allows the tomatoes to release their juices and create a fresh sauce.
- When the pasta is cooked, immediately add it to the bowl; the heat will help the flavors meld.
- Drizzle the olive oil gently so every bit of pasta is coated. If it feels dry, add a little reserved pasta water.
- Don’t forget to season as you go—taste after tossing in the cheese and adjust with salt and pepper! This step really brings the flavors forward.
Easy Summer Garden Pasta Recipe with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. A quick and easy meal perfect for any summer day!
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 your spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta but save about 1/4 cup of the cooking water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Fresh Veggies:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large bowl. Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil in the bowl. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This combination will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Combine Everything:
Next, add the drained pasta into the bowl with the fresh tomato and basil mix. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and gently toss everything together. If the pasta looks a little dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will help everything stick together nicely.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss again until the cheese is evenly distributed and everything is combined. Take a moment to taste it and see if you want to add more salt or pepper.
5. Serve with Love:
Finally, serve the pasta immediately! Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy the fresh, light flavors of summer right on your plate!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and angel hair are fantastic choices, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options like brown rice pasta would work well!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use parsley or oregano as substitutes. Dried basil is also an option, but use it sparingly—about a teaspoon should suffice, as it’s more concentrated in flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile. Consider adding sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for a boost of nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed to keep everything tender but not mushy!
