Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Recipe

This Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is light and fresh, which includes cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s a great choice for summer dinners, ready in about 15 minutes.

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Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 pound angel hair or spaghetti
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: fresh mozzarella balls or burrata for serving

How To Make Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Recipe

1. Marinate the tomatoes: In a large bowl, mix halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir, cover, and let sit at room temperature for 4 hours to marinate.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
3. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the hot pasta directly to the marinated tomato mixture. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly.
4. Add cheese and herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan and torn basil. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as desired.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, warm or at room temperature. Top with more Parmesan or fresh mozzarella, if using.

Recipe Tips

• How long should the tomatoes marinate? Let them sit for at least 4 hours at room temperature for best flavor.
• Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini work well with this sauce.
• What’s a good substitute for Parmesan? Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar sharpness.
• How to make it spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Can I serve this cold? Yes, it’s great at room temperature or lightly chilled for summer gatherings.

What To Serve With Summer Garden Pasta

This fresh pasta pairs beautifully with light, seasonal sides:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Caprese salad with balsamic glaze
• Grilled zucchini or eggplant
• Chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade
• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

How To Store Summer Garden Pasta

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak freshness.

Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or let sit at room temperature before serving.

Summer Garden Pasta Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~480
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: ~550mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the tomatoes in advance. Cook the pasta just before serving for best texture.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended, but in a pinch, use 1–2 teaspoons dried basil.

What type of tomatoes work best?
Sweet cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for their flavor and juiciness.

Can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent add-ins.

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it’s vegetarian as written. Omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives for vegan.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Engagement Roast Chicken Recipe
• Ina Garten Filet Mignon In Oven Recipe
• Ina Garten Skillet Roasted Chicken Thighs And Potatoes Recipe