This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and colorful dish full of fresh veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s the perfect way to enjoy summer flavors!
I love tossing everything together in just a few minutes. It’s like a party on your plate! Plus, if you’re like me, having an excuse to eat pasta makes any day better! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair are great options here. I love using angel hair for a lighter feel, but feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add freshness. If they’re out of season, try using canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for depth of flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a lovely aromatic quality. If you don’t have fresh basil, Italian seasoning or dried oregano can work as substitutes, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds creaminess and a savory kick. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good alternatives if Parmesan is not on hand.
How Do I Combine the Ingredients for Great Flavor?
Mixing the ingredients correctly is key to a successful dish. Here’s how I do it to ensure every bite is packed with flavor:
- Make sure the pasta is still warm when adding it to the tomato mixture. This helps the flavors meld.
- Reserve some pasta water. This starchy water is golden for adjusting the sauce’s texture if it’s too thick.
- Toss everything gently but thoroughly. You want the tomatoes and basil to coat the pasta nicely without crushing the cherry tomatoes.
Remember, the secret to a fantastic pasta dish lies in the seasoning. Taste as you combine, adjusting salt, pepper, and Parmesan as you go. Happy cooking!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, and about 5 minutes to mix everything together. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a warm summer evening!
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 the spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta but remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Veggies:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, chopped basil, and if you like a little heat, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly into the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently to combine. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again, making sure it coats evenly. The cheese adds a lovely creaminess to the dish.
5. Garnish and Serve:
To finish off, garnish your pasta with whole basil leaves and add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a tasty touch. Serve your pasta warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this delicious summer delight!
This easy garden pasta recipe captures the vibrant flavors of summer and is quick enough to whip up on a busy day. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and angel hair work great, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just follow the package directions for cooking time!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water, stirring occasionally to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is very versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté any harder vegetables briefly before mixing in with the pasta.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a tasty cheese substitute that adds a nice umami flavor without dairy!
