Name: Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus more for serving; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 pound angel hair pasta; 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

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Introduction

This Summer Garden Pasta is a light and fresh way to enjoy the peak flavors of the season. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for warm-weather meals.

A close-up view of a plate of spaghetti with three main layers: at the bottom, yellow, slightly shiny cooked spaghetti noodles are spread evenly; on top of the noodles, bright red cherry tomatoes are scattered all over, some whole and some slightly cooked, showing a shiny surface; the top layer features fresh, green basil leaves placed randomly, and a sprinkling of fine, light yellow grated cheese covers parts of the dish, adding texture. The plate is white, and the background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
6 cloves garlic, minced
18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus more for serving
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound angel hair pasta
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well, cover, and let it sit at room temperature for 4 hours to meld the flavors.
Step 2: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add a splash of olive oil, then cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: Drain the pasta thoroughly and add it directly to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and a few extra basil leaves over the top.
Step 4: Toss everything together gently to combine. Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a bright, flavorful finish.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try using a mix of heirloom tomatoes along with cherry tomatoes.
Substitute angel hair pasta with spaghetti or linguine if preferred.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomato marinade for a subtle tang.
For a protein boost, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if reheating, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a pasta dish with three main layers: a base of cooked yellow spaghetti noodles, a middle layer of bright red whole and halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh green basil leaves scattered on top. There are fine white shreds of cheese sprinkled evenly over the pasta and tomatoes, giving a light texture contrast. Small dark specks of black pepper and chopped green herbs add small color details. The dish is inside a container with a silvery shine, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the tomatoes up to 4 hours in advance as suggested, but it’s best to mix with the pasta just before serving to maintain the fresh texture.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.