Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz farfalle pasta; 2 cups ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped; 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 21, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile bursts with freshness from garden veggies and aromatic herbs
Its beautiful presentation adds color to your table, impressing guests effortlessly
This versatile dish can be served warm or chilled, adapting to any occasion beautifully

I remember the first time I made Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta for my family. They devoured it so quickly that I almost thought they had forgotten their manners.

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta of Your Choice: I love using farfalle for its fun shape, but spaghetti or penne works beautifully too.
Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe heirloom tomatoes for a juicy burst of flavor; they are worth the splurge!
Zucchini: Select firm zucchinis; they add a nice crunch and balance out the dish.
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal; red, yellow, or orange will brighten up your plate.
Fresh Basil: Always opt for fresh basil; it infuses the pasta with an irresistible aroma and flavor. crispy cauliflower patties.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this one. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds richness and depth.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; the fresh cheese elevates the entire dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Veggies and Pasta: Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, slice the zucchini into half-moons, and dice those bell peppers into colorful squares. Meanwhile, boil salted water in a large pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Sauté Those Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil until it shimmers. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do the trick. Be careful not to burn it; nobody likes burnt garlic!

Add in Your Veggies: Toss in chopped zucchini and diced bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch—this keeps things interesting!

Mix in Tomatoes and Basil: Now it’s time to add those juicy tomatoes along with fresh basil leaves. Cook everything together until the tomatoes start breaking down—around 3 minutes should suffice—creating a lovely sauce that coats every noodle.

Combine Pasta with Sauce : Drain your al dente pasta but save a little bit of pasta water (about half a cup). Toss the pasta into the skillet with your veggie mixture and stir well. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Finish with Cheese : Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese—don’t be shy! Toss everything together until combined perfectly. Serve immediately while it’s warm—your taste buds will thank you!

Enjoying Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta means relishing each bite as summer unfolds on your plate—a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance!

You Must Know

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a delightful dish that marries seasonal veggies with pasta
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be tailored to your liking, ensuring each bite is fresh and satisfying
The vibrant colors and flavors will impress everyone at your table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while sautéing the vegetables in olive oil. This multitasking approach saves time and keeps everything fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to revive the flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always undercook your pasta slightly; it will continue cooking when mixed with the hot sauce
Fresh herbs elevate the dish, adding brightness and flavor
Don’t forget to season generously with salt during each step for maximum taste!

Cooking this dish always reminds me of summer evenings spent with friends, sharing laughter over plates of colorful pasta and glasses of chilled wine. Those moments are what make cooking truly special.

FAQ

What vegetables are best for Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta?

Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for optimal freshness.

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance; just store it properly to maintain flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa.

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