This Easy Summer Garden Pasta is a colorful dish filled with fresh veggies like tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for warm evenings!
I love making this pasta because it’s quick to prepare, and there’s no heavy sauce to worry about. Just toss the ingredients together, and dinner is ready in no time! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta cooks quickly, making it great for light meals. If you can’t find it, spaghetti or any short pasta like penne or fusilli work well. I prefer angel hair for this dish due to its delicate texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes burst with flavor. If they aren’t available, use diced regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes. I sometimes roast larger tomatoes for added sweetness!
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but I always opt for fresh when possible for the best flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely fragrance and taste. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated. I love using fresh basil for that garden-fresh hit!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives richness and depth. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great alternative. I like to use freshly grated cheese for the best taste.
How Do I Keep the Pasta from Sticking Together?
Keeping your pasta from sticking can make all the difference. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a large pot and plenty of salted water for boiling your pasta. The salt adds flavor and can help with sticking.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking. This keeps it separate and avoids clumping.
- After draining, toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil before mixing with other ingredients. This creates a barrier that helps prevent sticking.
Following these tips will ensure your pasta remains loose and ready to enjoy in your delicious summer garden dish!
Easy Summer Garden Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta (or spaghetti)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s super quick because the pasta cooks in just a few minutes, and you only have to mix the fresh ingredients together. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add the angel hair pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it’s al dente—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and olive oil. If you love a little spice, add the red pepper flakes! Season with salt and pepper to taste. This fresh mix is where the flavors come together beautifully.
3. Combine the Pasta and Veggies:
Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the warm pasta slightly softens the tomatoes for a flavorful burst. You want to mix it well but be careful not to break the pasta!
4. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again to make sure the cheese gets evenly distributed throughout the pasta. The cheese adds a lovely creaminess!
5. Serve It Up!
Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with additional fresh basil and top with extra Parmesan cheese for a deliciously finishing touch. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and dig into this refreshing, quick summer pasta. It’s light, colorful, and full of flavor—perfect for a warm evening!
This no-cook vegetable sauce pasta highlights the freshness of garden ingredients and is perfect for a quick, light dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair works beautifully due to its lightness, you can substitute it with spaghetti, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead. Just use about one-third of the amount (1 tablespoon of dried basil) since it’s more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, try using fresh parsley or spinach for a different twist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pasta by adding veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just chop and sauté them briefly before mixing with the pasta and tomatoes for a flavorful addition!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm gently in a pan, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help revive the dish.
