This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and colorful dish packed with fresh veggies. It’s perfect for a sunny day and quick to whip up, making it a fantastic meal choice!
I love how this pasta makes use of whatever veggies are in season. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty dinner. Plus, it’s so light, you won’t feel guilty about seconds! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love spaghetti for its classic texture, but angel hair is a great option if you prefer something lighter. If gluten-free is your goal, try using gluten-free pasta; it works just as well!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and a pop of color. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with halved grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes. Roasted tomatoes also bring a different flavor twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a wonderful fragrance. If you don’t have fresh, try garlic powder, but remember the flavor is milder—start with 1/4 tsp.
Basil: Fresh basil really enhances the dish’s summer vibe. Dried basil can work too, but use less—about 1 tsp—since dried herbs are more potent.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds richness. If you prefer a stronger flavor, Pecorino Romano is a yummy substitute. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta may seem simple, but getting it right is essential. Al dente (firm to the bite) is the goal here!
- Use plenty of water and salt it for flavor. It should taste a bit like the ocean.
- Follow package cooking times but start checking a minute or two early. Taste a piece; it should be tender, not mushy.
- Once done, drain it but don’t rinse. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps your sauce stick.
With these tips and substitutions, you’re all set to make a delicious and refreshing Summer Garden Pasta! Enjoy gathering your ingredients and happy cooking!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair pasta
- For The Veggies:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole for garnish)
- For The Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- For Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Summer Garden Pasta should take about 25 minutes total to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in your spaghetti or angel hair pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (this means it should have a slight bite to it). Once done, drain and set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large mixing bowl and combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle in the olive oil, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, if using. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all together to let the flavors marry.
3. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Now it’s time to bring your pasta and veggies together. Toss the drained pasta into the bowl with the tomato mixture and mix gently. The warmth of the pasta will slightly soften the tomatoes, creating a lovely combination of flavors and textures.
4. Add Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed and everything is well combined.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once mixed, it’s time to serve. Garnish with whole basil leaves and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Serve immediately and dig into this refreshing summer dish!
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients of your Easy Summer Garden Pasta! 🌼🍝
FAQ for Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this pasta with your favorite summer veggies, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them slightly if you prefer them tender.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist and fresh.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions for some extra protein. If you choose to add meat, cook it separately and then toss it in with the pasta and veggies.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! This pasta can be made ahead of time. Just prepare the veggies and pasta, then store them separately in the fridge. Combine and add cheese just before serving for the freshest taste!
