If you’re craving a dish that feels like a vibrant celebration of summer in every bite, Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe is a brilliant symphony of fresh cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and perfectly al dente angel hair pasta, all brought together with the richness of extra virgin olive oil and the subtle heat of crushed red pepper flakes. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want a light yet satisfying meal, this pasta captures the essence of garden-fresh produce and Italian simplicity, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to come back to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe plays a starring role, yet none overpower the others. The freshness and quality of these simple components truly make this dish shine, creating a colorful and flavorful plate that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet, these burst with summer flavor and create a natural sauce as they cook.
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil: Adds a luscious, fruity richness that ties the whole dish together.
- 2 tablespoons (6 cloves) garlic, minced: Builds a fragrant foundation and a bit of savory warmth without overpowering.
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving: Brings herbaceous brightness and freshness to each bite.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and elevate the natural flavors.
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta: Delicately thin noodles that soak up all the lovely tomato and basil goodness beautifully.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving: A savory, nutty finish that adds depth and a touch of indulgence.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the angel hair pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. The pasta acts as the canvas for all the delicious flavors, so don’t overcook it. Drain well and set it aside, allowing it to be ready for the magic to happen in the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Tomatoes
While your pasta cooks, heat a generous amount of your best extra virgin olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until it releases its irresistible aroma – this only takes a minute or so, so watch carefully. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, julienned basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Let the tomatoes gently cook and soften just enough to release their natural juices without turning to mush — this creates the base of the luscious summer sauce.
Step 3: Combine
Now comes the fun part: add the drained angel hair pasta straight into the skillet with your softened tomatoes and basil. Toss everything together carefully but thoroughly, ensuring that every tender strand of pasta is coated with the fragrant, colorful sauce that captures summer on a plate.
Step 4: Finish
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese atop your pasta along with a few extra basil leaves. Toss again with gentle enthusiasm to marry the flavors and introduce that creamy, salty dimension only Parmesan can provide. This final step turns the dish into a comforting yet elegant meal ready to impress.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate presentation and flavor, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a generous shave or sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of olive oil right before serving adds a beautiful sheen and subtle richness.
Side Dishes
Because this pasta highlights fresh, garden-focused ingredients, it pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or grilled vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic-rubbed baguette slices can complement the dish without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family-style meal, serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe in a large, rustic bowl decorated with whole basil leaves and cherry tomatoes on the vine. Individual portions can be plated with a basil sprig and a Parmesan crisp for a restaurant-worthy touch that feels personal and indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, making the flavors even more concentrated, so give it a gentle stir when reheating.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze particularly well because the tomatoes can become watery and lose their vibrant texture. For optimal flavor and texture, avoid freezing.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of water as needed to loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out. A quick toss and warm serve bring it back to life beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair is traditional for its delicate texture, you can substitute linguine or thin spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times to maintain the perfect al dente bite.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep the flavor savory and satisfying while respecting vegan preferences.
How spicy is this recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes without overwhelming the palate. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance to make it milder or a bit more lively.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time?
You can halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic a few hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook and combine the ingredients just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.
What wine pairs well with Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe?
A crisp, refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully. These wines enhance the bright tomato and basil flavors without overpowering the delicate pasta.
Final Thoughts
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a colorful celebration of summer’s freshest flavors, delivered in a way that feels both comforting and refined. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and bursting with garden goodness that will brighten any meal. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and discover the joy of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way possible.
Print
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a vibrant and fresh dish that highlights the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes combined with fragrant basil and garlic, tossed with delicate angel hair pasta and finished with grated Parmesan. This easy-to-make recipe celebrates summer flavors and comes together quickly for a delightful, light pasta meal perfect for warm weather dining.
Ingredients
Produce
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving
Pantry
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta
Dairy
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving (approximately 1/2 cup plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
- Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn it. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, julienned basil leaves, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Combine: Add the drained angel hair pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss well to combine, letting the pasta absorb the flavors. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly and create a light sauce.
- Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional julienned basil leaves over the pasta. Toss thoroughly so the cheese melts slightly and the basil flavor infuses throughout the dish.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves as desired for a bright and flavorful presentation.
Notes
- Use the freshest cherry tomatoes possible for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if the dish feels dry.
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed within 1-2 days.
