This Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and fresh dish filled with vibrant veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a light meal on a warm day!
The best part? It’s super quick to make! I love tossing everything together with olive oil and herbs for a tasty meal that feels like summer in a bowl. 🍅🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti is the classic choice, but you can switch it up! Try penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh is best for bright flavor, but if out of season, swap with canned diced tomatoes or sundried tomatoes for a different twist.
Basil: Fresh basil adds great aroma. If you don’t have it, dried basil works in a pinch, but reduce the amount as dried is more concentrated, about 1 tablespoon should do.
Parmesan Cheese: While grated Parmesan is traditional, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can be great substitutes. They each bring their unique flavor to the dish.
How Do I Get the Right Flavor From the Garlic?
Garlic adds depth to this pasta. For the best taste, use fresh garlic and remember not to overcook it. Here’s how:
- Minced garlic should be added to the tomatoes right away so it infuses the oil. If sautéing, do so for just 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Be cautious not to let garlic burn, as it turns bitter. Stir it in quickly and then combine with the tomatoes.
How to Make Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes mixing everything together. Enjoy making this quick and refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, and then sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are well coated in the oil and seasonings.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure the pasta is well coated with the tomato and garlic mix. Be careful not to break the pasta!
4. Fold in the Fresh Ingredients:
Now, add the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese into the mix. Gently fold these in until they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Summer Garden Pasta is ready to be served! Plate it up and feel free to garnish with extra basil and Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this fresh and delicious dish!
Can I Substitute Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta to achieve the desired al dente texture.
How Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
To make the Summer Garden Pasta vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option to add a cheesy flavor without dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep the pasta moist, and warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add other summer vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Simply sauté them briefly before mixing them with the pasta to enhance their flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time to keep everything tender yet vibrant!
