Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets Summer Garden Pasta apart from typical tomato pasta recipes is its uncooked, marinated tomato sauce. Instead of heating or cooking the tomatoes, they are marinated with garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil, resulting in a sweet, juicy sauce that is full of flavor. This method highlights the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, making it a bright and fresh summer dish. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite pasta shape and adjust the spice level to your liking.

Summer Garden Pasta

Ingredients

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon salt (plus more for finishing)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or less for a milder version)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 ounces angel hair pasta (or your favorite pasta)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, chopped basil, salt, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of black pepper.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture marinate at room temperature for at least 4 hours. This allows the tomatoes to release their juices and absorb the flavors of the garlic and basil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it, reserving some pasta water.
Toss the cooked pasta with the marinated tomatoes and their juices. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 4 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours, 20 minutes

Variations

Pasta Shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer—angel hair is great, but spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well too.
Cheese: While Parmesan is traditional, you can try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or even a dollop of ricotta for a creamy twist.
Vegetarian: To keep it vegetarian, this dish is already meat-free. However, if you’d like to add some protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas.
Herbs: If you don’t have basil, fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley can provide a nice alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb more of the tomato juices over time.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to keep it moist. However, the dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the marinated tomatoes lose their vibrant flavor when stored.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of tomato for this recipe?

Yes! While cherry tomatoes are ideal because of their sweetness, you can use any ripe, in-season tomatoes. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy marination.

2. How long can I marinate the tomatoes?

The tomatoes should marinate for at least 4 hours, but you can let them sit for up to 6 hours for even more flavor. Avoid marinating for too long, as the tomatoes may become too mushy.

3. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic if you prefer. The dish will still be delicious, though garlic does add a depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes nicely.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

5. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

You can marinate the tomatoes in advance, but it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

6. How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat to the dish. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it entirely.

7. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use dried basil. Use about 1/3 of the amount if substituting dried herbs for fresh ones.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing the leftovers may cause the tomatoes to lose their texture and flavor.

9. What’s the best pasta to use for this dish?

Angel hair pasta is ideal for this recipe because it pairs perfectly with the light, fresh sauce. However, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.

10. How do I add more protein to this dish?

To add protein, you can serve the pasta with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is the perfect dish for warm weather, offering a burst of fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, this recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!