This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and colorful dish filled with fresh veggies like tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. It’s perfect for warm weather and super quick to make!
I love when summer yields fresh produce; it makes this pasta so tasty! Just toss everything together, and dinner is served. Who says cooking can’t be easy and fun? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks quickly and pairs well with fresh veggies. If you don’t have it, spaghetti is a great substitute. You could even use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties if you prefer.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy! If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, use diced regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes for similar flavor. Any fresh, ripe tomato will do.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder works as a substitute, but use less than the recipe calls for since it’s more concentrated.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that summer taste. If you don’t have any, consider using parsley or another fresh herb like oregano for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You could also use another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano if you prefer its sharper taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta doesn’t have to be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right. The key is to watch it closely.
- Use plenty of water when boiling pasta—this helps it cook evenly.
- Salt the water generously before adding the pasta; it enhances the flavor.
- Follow the package directions for cooking time, but start checking for doneness a minute or two early.
- Look for a texture known as “al dente,” which means the pasta should be firm yet tender when bitten.
- Once cooked, drain it but do not rinse, as you want to keep the starch that helps the sauce stick.
Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta or spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Summer Garden Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for busy summer evenings or when you want something fresh and light. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and it’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the angel hair pasta or spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. After cooking, carefully drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Veggie Mix:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Gently stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Now that you’ve drained the pasta, add it to the bowl with the veggie mixture. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the fresh ingredients. You want the flavors to blend nicely!
4. Add Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. Toss it all lightly again so the cheese gets mixed in with the pasta and veggies.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your beautifully mixed pasta to a serving bowl. If you want, garnish with a few more basil leaves and some extra Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch. This dish can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
Enjoy this light, fresh, and colorful pasta that celebrates summer garden flavors!
FAQ: Easy Summer Garden Pasta with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair and spaghetti work best, feel free to substitute any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use fresh parsley or even a little dried oregano. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of what you would with fresh herbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Veggies?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add other summer veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or even asparagus. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they mix well with the pasta.
Enjoy your cooking, and feel free to experiment with the recipe to make it your own!
