This Summer Garden Pasta is a colorful and fresh dish packed with your favorite veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s quick to make and so tasty!
I love how every bite feels like a garden party! You can even add some cheese on top for extra yumminess. It’s perfect for those hot days when you want something light and refreshing!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: While the recipe calls for spaghetti, any pasta shape will do! I’ve enjoyed this dish with penne and farfalle. Just pick your favorite for a fun twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, try grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Their sweetness is key, so make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
Basil: Fresh basil gives the dish lovely flavor. If you can’t find it, consider using parsley or oregano as a substitute, though they’ll offer a different taste. I still love to sprinkle in some extra fresh herbs for garnish!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty touch. If you prefer a veggie option, you can use nutritional yeast. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano will also work beautifully.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient is optional, but I enjoy the depth it brings. If you want something milder, consider a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
How Do I Create a Light Sauce with the Pasta Water?
Creating a light sauce is simple with the reserved pasta water! Here’s how:
- After cooking the pasta, save about a cup of the starchy water before draining.
- When mixing the pasta with the tomato mixture, add the reserved water a little at a time, stirring until you achieve a sauce-like consistency.
- The starch in the pasta water helps everything stick together and gives a silky texture.
Don’t hesitate to add more water if needed, but go slowly to avoid making the sauce too runny. It’s all about balance!
How to Make Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Base:
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Cheese and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Summer Garden Pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. It includes around 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and delightful 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 chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to save about a cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, along with red pepper flakes if you’re looking for some heat. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the tomatoes to soften and release their delicious juices, enhancing the overall flavor.
3. Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture:
Once the pasta is cooked and your tomato mixture has set, add the warm pasta to the bowl with the tomatoes. Toss everything together well, adding some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time, just until the sauce looks nice and light but not too watery.
4. Mix in Basil and Cheese:
Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything so that the flavors combine beautifully. Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want an extra layer of flavor, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Summer Garden Pasta warm. Top with additional fresh basil leaves and more Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this fresh, vibrant dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary from spaghetti!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! You can substitute with dried basil, but use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. If you’re looking for fresh flavors, fresh parsley or arugula could also be a great alternative!
How to Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or olive oil and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just sauté them briefly before adding to your pasta to ensure they’re tender and flavorful!
