Description

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that highlights fresh garden tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender angel hair pasta. The recipe features sautéed cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes, combined with al dente pasta and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect light and refreshing summer meal.

Ingredients

Vegetables & Herbs

4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons (6 cloves) garlic, minced

Pantry

Great quality extra virgin olive oil (about 1/4 cup or as needed for sautéing)
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

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Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, being careful 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 soften slightly but still hold some shape.
Combine: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce and ingredients.
Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional julienned basil leaves over the pasta and toss once again to combine all flavors.
Serve: Serve the Summer Garden Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil leaves as desired for a fresh and decorative touch.

Notes

Use the freshest cherry tomatoes and basil possible for the best flavor.
If angel hair pasta is unavailable, thin spaghetti can be substituted.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your desired heat level.
Reserve a cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick during tossing.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for summer gatherings.