Description
This Summer Garden Pasta recipe celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors with marinated cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic tossed with delicate angel hair pasta and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s a light, refreshing dish perfect for warm weather and easy entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Marinade
- 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
Pasta
- 1 pound angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Tomatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well, then cover and let it sit at room temperature for 4 hours so all those beautiful flavors can meld.
- Cook the Pasta: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add a splash of olive oil to the water to prevent sticking, then cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions until perfectly al dente, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine and Toss: Drain the pasta thoroughly and add it directly to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and add a few more fresh basil leaves. Toss everything together gently until well combined and the cheese begins to melt into the pasta.
- Serve Fresh: Plate the pasta immediately while still warm. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh finish. This dish is best enjoyed right away for maximum freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the tomatoes for at least 4 hours enhances the flavor and softens the tomatoes slightly.
- Angel hair pasta cooks quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- If you prefer a bit less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
- Serve as a light main course or side dish during summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: summer pasta, garden pasta, cherry tomato pasta, angel hair pasta, fresh basil pasta, easy pasta recipe, Italian summer recipe
