If you’re searching for a dish that captures the very heart of summer on a plate, look no further than Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta. This vibrant recipe is a true celebration of sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and delicate angel hair pasta, all brought together with silky olive oil and a shower of Parmesan. It’s effortlessly elegant and utterly delicious—perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply savoring those garden-fresh flavors at their peak.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is its simplicity—every ingredient matters! Each one shines, lending bold flavor, cheerful color, or comforting texture to create magic in every bite.
- Cherry Tomatoes (4 pints, halved): Use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find, as they create the base of the sauce and bring natural sweetness and acidity.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (½ cup): The foundation of the dressing, a quality olive oil adds a fruity lushness and smooth mouthfeel.
- Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon, or 3 cloves): Garlic infuses warmth and depth; mince it finely for even flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon): Just enough to lift all the other flavors and add a happy tingle without overwhelming the dish.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning; start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste for balance.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a savory edge and rounds out the flavors—freshly cracked is best.
- Angel Hair Pasta (1 pound): Its fine texture soaks up the tomato juices beautifully, creating the perfect bite every time.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1½ cups): Brings a salty, nutty note that ties everything together—grate just before tossing for maximum flavor.
- Chopped Fresh Basil Leaves (1 cup): The soul of summer itself! Basil adds freshness, fragrance, and glorious green color.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta
Step 1: Marinate the Cherry Tomatoes
Start by placing all those gorgeous, halved cherry tomatoes into a large bowl. Drizzle them generously with extra virgin olive oil, then toss in your minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. It’s amazing watching the tomatoes soften and mingle as they sit—cover the bowl and let this magical mixture marinate at room temperature for 4 hours. Be patient! This time lets the tomatoes release their juices and blend flavors for that signature summery taste.
Step 2: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to eat, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the angel hair pasta and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Because angel hair cooks quickly, keep a close eye on it—you want it tender with a slight bite so it can soak up every drop of your tomato marinade.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture
As soon as your pasta is ready, drain it well and immediately add it to the marinated tomato bowl while it’s steaming hot. This helps the pasta absorb the flavorful juices. Toss everything together thoroughly, so the pasta and tomatoes unite into a luscious, colorful tangle.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Basil
Now, shower over the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and all that vibrant basil. Toss again so the cheese melts slightly and the basil’s fragrance infuses the dish. The result is a dreamy, creamy, herb-packed bowl that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta can be served warm or at room temperature—you get flexibility and delicious results either way! Spoon into bowls and add a little extra Parmesan, basil, or even a drizzle of olive oil to finish. It’s pure joy with every forkful.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta
Garnishes
For a restaurant-worthy finish, sprinkle extra Parmesan or add a handful of small mozzarella pearls for creamy pockets of goodness. A final shower of fresh basil ribbons is always welcome. And for spice lovers, an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or even a drizzle of good olive oil elevates each serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta is wonderfully versatile! Pair it with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon, or roasted summer vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers. Crusty grilled bread is perfect for soaking up all the tomato juices. For protein, grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu slide in effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta family-style in a large, colorful platter surrounded by garden flowers for a festive table. For a fancier feel, present in individual shallow bowls and top each portion with an edible flower or lemon zest. Leftovers can be tucked into lunchboxes (great cold!) or even wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (rare, but possible!), transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making the next-day bites even brighter and richer.
Freezing
While the pasta’s fresh ingredients are best enjoyed right after making, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Store in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir before reheating for the best result.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water to help loosen the pasta, then warm gently in a skillet over low to medium heat. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to keep everything moist and evenly heated. Add fresh basil or Parmesan just before serving if available.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While angel hair delivers that delicate texture classic to Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta, you can swap in spaghetti, linguine, or even penne if you like a heartier bite. Just adjust cooking times to keep the pasta al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Swap the Parmesan cheese for a vegan alternative or use nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy touch. All the remaining ingredients are plant-based, making this an easy dinner for vegan guests.
What if I only have larger tomatoes?
No worries. You can use ripe Roma or heirloom tomatoes—just chop them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same steps. The dish will be just as delicious and colorful.
Can I marinate the tomatoes for longer than 4 hours?
Definitely. If you’re busy or prepping ahead, the tomato mixture can marinate overnight in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature before tossing with the pasta, so the flavors really shine and the olive oil isn’t solidified.
What are some tasty add-ins for more flavor?
Toss in sliced olives, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes for briny depth. For extra protein, try grilled shrimp or small cubes of fresh mozzarella. Fresh herbs like oregano or chives make lovely additions to complement the basil.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tasted Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta, it’s sure to become a staple for every sun-soaked meal and easy weeknight craving. The blend of fresh ingredients and simple preparation highlights everything wonderful about seasonal cooking. Don’t let another summer pass by without trying this joyful, breezy pasta—your tastebuds will thank you!
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Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of summer. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory Parmesan cheese, this pasta is a perfect way to enjoy the season’s bounty.
Ingredients
Cherry Tomatoes:
4 pints (halved)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
½ cup
Minced Garlic:
1 tablespoon (3 cloves)
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
½ teaspoon
Kosher Salt:
to taste
Black Pepper:
to taste
Angel Hair Pasta:
1 pound
Parmesan Cheese:
1½ cups (freshly grated)
Fresh Basil Leaves:
1 cup (chopped)
Instructions
- Marinate Tomatoes: Combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cover and marinate for 4 hours.
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Combine: Add pasta to tomatoes, mix in Parmesan and basil.
- Serve: Toss well and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes for the best taste.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil for added richness.
- Optional: Add mozzarella pearls or grilled shrimp for protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 72 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
