This Summer Garden Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that brings the flavors of the season to your table. With colorful veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!
It’s quick to prepare, which means you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine! 🍅 I love tossing in some basil for that extra burst of flavor. Perfect for a light dinner or a picnic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli! They’ll all work well in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness. If you’re short on cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces. Canned tomatoes in a pinch can also work, though fresh is best for that summer flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that aromatic touch. If you can’t find it, try using parsley or even dried basil. Dried herbs are stronger, so cut down the amount to about 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor. Regular cheese alternatives can also fit if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is key to bringing out its flavor, but it can burn quickly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat—this prevents the garlic from cooking too fast.
- Keep stirring the garlic as it cooks to ensure even heating.
- Watch for a turn to golden brown—this is when it’s fragrant but not burnt. If you smell it burning, remove it from heat right away!
Enjoy the wonderful aroma! Starting on the right foot with garlic sets the tone for the rest of your dish.
How to Make Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Summer Garden Pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and bringing everything together. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for warm days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it. This will help to make your sauce just right!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same pot, pour in the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Heat it over medium heat and let it sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be lightly golden.
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the pot. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their delicious juices. This is where the flavor starts to build up!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Return the drained pasta to the pot along with the reserved pasta water. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together over low heat until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Add Basil and Cheese:
Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well so that the cheese melts into the pasta and everything blends beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Summer Garden Pasta warm. If you like, you can garnish it with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves on top. Enjoy this fresh and colorful dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, following package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead of the fresh. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help loosen up the pasta.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Pasta?
Yes! Feel free to add seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to this dish. Just sauté them along with the garlic and cherry tomatoes until they’re slightly softened for a delicious and colorful twist!
