Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta: A Vibrant Recipe Delight

Name: Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 28, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful summer garden pasta offers effortless preparation, allowing you to whip it up in no time
The fresh flavors burst with every bite, making it an unforgettable meal
Its colorful presentation will wow guests at any gathering or dinner party
Perfectly versatile, you can swap ingredients based on seasonal produce or personal preferences

I remember one summer evening when I made this dish for my family. Everyone was raving about how delicious it was, and my niece even asked for seconds—an impressive feat considering she usually subsists on mac and cheese.

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta

Essential Ingredients

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

Pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti or penne works best for holding onto sauce. creamy spinach spaghetti.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for a burst of flavor that screams summer.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely crunch and lightness to the dish.
Basil: Use fragrant fresh basil for the best flavor profile; dried won’t cut it here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides depth; avoid pre-minced varieties if you want true flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra-virgin olive oil elevates the entire dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and enhances the overall taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your palate.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do the trick.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then toss in halved cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini until tender. roasted garlic herb vegetables.

Add Herbs: Once your veggies are beautifully soft, mix in freshly chopped basil along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together while inhaling that glorious aroma—it’s like summer in a skillet!

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta but reserve a cup of cooking water just in case you need it later. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with veggies, mixing well so every strand is coated in goodness.

Add Finishing Touches: If your dish seems dry, slowly add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Finally, sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before giving it one last good toss.

Taste it; if it doesn’t scream “summertime perfection,” then maybe add more cheese or herbs until it does! Serve warm with extra Parmesan on the side—because why not?

Enjoy every delicious bite!

You Must Know

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a vibrant dish, perfect for showcasing seasonal veggies
It’s a quick, refreshing meal that can be customized based on what you have in your fridge
The combination of fresh ingredients creates a delightful explosion of flavors

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while you sauté the vegetables in olive oil for optimal timing and flavor retention.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out seasonal vegetables or add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to personalize your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use the freshest vegetables for maximum flavor; don’t overcook them to maintain their crunch
Remember to reserve some pasta water when draining; it helps bind the sauce perfectly
Taste as you go; seasoning can make all the difference in this dish

Sometimes, my friends will insist that I make this dish for every gathering because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their compliments always warm my heart!

FAQ

What vegetables work best in Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta?

For more inspiration, check out this strawberry spinach salad recipe.

Use colorful summer vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for freshness.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, just store it in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available on the market.

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📖 Recipe Card