If you have a love for vibrant, fresh flavors that scream summer, then Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish. This recipe captures the essence of a sun-ripened garden with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a perfect hint of garlic and heat, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta. It’s like a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to something truly special, bringing a burst of color and freshness to your table that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a balance of flavor, texture, and visual delight that makes this dish so satisfying and inviting.
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved: These bring a juicy sweetness and vibrant color essential for that fresh summer vibe.
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil: The backbone of the sauce, it adds richness and helps marry the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons (6 cloves) garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic depth that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving: Fresh basil introduces a peppery, sweet note that truly brightens the whole pasta.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Just enough to add a gentle kick without overpowering the freshness.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: The seasoning that brings out every nuance of the other ingredients.
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta: Thin and delicate, it soaks up the flavors while keeping the dish light and elegant.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving: Adds a creamy, savory finish that rounds out the fresh ingredients beautifully.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. Draining the pasta well is key because you want it to absorb the luscious sauce without becoming watery. Angel hair’s delicate strands really allow the flavors of the sauce to shine through, so getting this step just right is important.
Step 2: Sauté the Tomatoes
Heat a generous splash of your extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant and golden, releasing that amazing aroma that gets your mouth watering. Immediately add the halved cherry tomatoes, the julienned basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir everything gently and cook until the tomatoes soften slightly and start to release their juices, giving you a vibrant, fragrant sauce base.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your tomatoes have softened just right, add the drained angel hair pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything carefully but thoroughly to ensure every delicate strand is coated in the garlicky, basil-infused tomato sauce. This is where all those summer flavors meld into a harmonious, colorful burst of freshness.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Basil
Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and throw in some extra basil leaves for a flavor boost. Toss once more so the cheese melts slightly into the pasta, creating a creamy texture that complements the bright acidity of the tomatoes perfectly. This final step transforms the dish from simple to sublime.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For serving, don’t be shy with extra Parmesan shavings and fresh basil leaves. These little touches not only add beauty but also a fresh, aromatic lift that makes each bite feel like a celebration of summer in your mouth.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as a centerpiece, but it pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread to sop up any leftover sauce. You can also add a chilled glass of crisp white wine to round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve this in wide, shallow bowls so the pasta spreads out and the colors pop under the basil and cheese. A sprinkling of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add an unexpected twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the bright texture of the tomatoes and basil.
Freezing
Because this dish features fresh ingredients like basil and tomatoes, it is not ideal for freezing. The texture of the tomatoes and herbs can become mushy and lose their vibrant flavor after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a small amount of water to prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pasta mushy and unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While angel hair pasta is recommended for its delicate texture that complements the light sauce, you can definitely try thin spaghetti or linguine if you prefer something a bit sturdier. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste, or even add a dash of cayenne pepper. Just be cautious so it doesn’t overpower the fresh garden flavors that make this dish special.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan-friendly cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without any dairy.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can halve and prep the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and combine everything just before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh and the basil bright.
What wine pairs best with Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio works beautifully with this pasta, as their acidity balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and complements the freshness of the basil and olive oil.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe that makes you appreciate the beauty of seasonal ingredients and simple cooking techniques. It’s a dish that feels elegant yet completely approachable, perfect for a sunny family dinner or entertaining friends. Give this recipe a try and let the fresh flavors of summer brighten your dining table and your day!
Print
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a light and fresh dish featuring halved cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic, basil, and red pepper flakes, combined with perfectly cooked angel hair pasta and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This recipe celebrates summer flavors with its simple yet vibrant ingredients, perfect for a quick and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil (about 1/4 cup)
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (6 cloves)
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta
Toppings
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well to remove all excess water and set aside.
- Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, julienned basil leaves, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook the mixture while stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften slightly but still hold their shape, about 6-8 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked and drained angel hair pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta evenly with the flavorful tomato sauce.
- Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to incorporate the cheese into the dish. Add extra basil leaves for garnish and mix gently.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.
Notes
- For best flavor, use the freshest cherry tomatoes available.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be kept warm for a short period.
- Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
