Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish that showcases the best summer flavors with sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes. This light olive oil-based pasta is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and simple preparation for maximum taste.
Ingredients
Tomato Sauce Mixture
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
Garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Additional fresh basil leaves, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 4 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to infuse the olive oil with vibrant flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a splash of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of salt to the water to season and prevent the pasta from sticking. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 2 to 3 minutes, being careful not to overcook for the perfect bite.
- Combine: Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and immediately add it to the bowl containing the tomato mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat the pasta with the flavorful sauce. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir to incorporate evenly.
- Serve: Divide the pasta into large serving bowls. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its freshest and most vibrant.
Notes
- Allowing the sauce mixture to rest for 4 hours at room temperature is crucial to develop deep, balanced flavors.
- Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it maintains texture when tossed with the sauce.
- You can substitute the pasta with any preferred shape like penne or linguine for personal preference.
- For a vegan or dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal with extra protein.
- The olive oil in both the sauce and pasta water enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 4 hours resting time)
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
