If you’re seeking a dish that perfectly embodies the taste of summer in every bite, look no further than Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe. This sun-kissed pasta features ripe cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, extra-virgin olive oil, and ribbons of Parmesan, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta. It’s an effortless way to capture the freshness of the garden—and it’s so simple, you’ll want to make it on repeat all season long. Each forkful bursts with juicy flavor and creamy richness, making it a bright star for both casual dinners and laid-back entertaining.

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for its summery taste, texture, and color. This is the kind of recipe where freshness shines, so seek out the best produce and cheese you can find.

Cherry Tomatoes (4 cups, halved): These little jewels bring vibrant, juicy sweetness and beautiful color to the dish.
Good-Quality Olive Oil (1/2 cup): Offers rich flavor and helps meld the sauce ingredients together—choose extra-virgin for the best taste.
Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances the natural flavors and keeps the pasta perfectly seasoned.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and complexity without overwhelming the delicate tomatoes.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Delivers a gentle heat that wakes up every bite—adjust based on your preference.
Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon, about 3 cloves): Infuses the marinated tomatoes with savory, aromatic depth.
Fresh Basil Leaves (1/2 cup, chopped): The true herbaceous star, basil brings a garden-fresh perfume and splash of green.
Angel Hair Pasta (1 lb): Its delicate texture pairs beautifully with the light, saucy mixture.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Creamy and nutty, Parmesan melts into the pasta and ties all the flavors together.
Extra Basil and Cheese for Garnish: A finishing touch that adds color, fragrance, and even more flavor.

How to Make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Tomatoes

Start by combining the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), minced garlic, and chopped basil in a big mixing bowl. Give everything a good stir so the tomatoes are evenly coated in that garlicky, herby oil. Next, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours. This step is the secret: the flavors mingle and intensify, and the tomatoes become incredibly juicy during the wait. Resist the urge to refrigerate, as that can dull the vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

When you’re ready to eat, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the angel hair pasta and cook just until al dente, about 3 or 4 minutes (it cooks quickly!). Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later, then drain the pasta thoroughly. Work quickly here, as tossing pasta while it’s hot helps it absorb all the garden-fresh flavors.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Immediately add the hot, drained pasta to the bowl with your marinated tomato mixture. Use tongs to gently toss until the noodles are slicked with oil and studded with tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Sprinkle over the grated Parmesan, letting the heat from the pasta help it melt and meld into a silky sauce. If the pasta seems a little dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help everything come together.

Step 4: Serve with Finishing Touches

Spoon the finished Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe into bowls or onto a big platter. Shower the top with extra basil and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. You can serve this pasta warm or let it cool slightly to room temperature—either way, the flavors will sing. If you want to bulk it up, toss in grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial meal.

How to Serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Bright, fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan are classic, but don’t be afraid to add a drizzle of your best olive oil just before serving. Chopped fresh chives, a grind of pepper, or even a few toasted pine nuts can bring extra flair and crunch to the table.

Side Dishes

Pair this summery pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad with shaved fennel. Warm, crusty bread or a rustic baguette makes the most of every last bit of tomato-olive oil sauce—don’t let a drop go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests, mound the pasta on a large serving platter layered with colorful heirloom tomato slices underneath. For outdoor gatherings, try serving the Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe in small bowls or cups for a festive, picnic-style feel. Twirl the pasta into little nests on plates and top each with a perfect basil leaf for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the juices and flavors, making it even more robust the next day, though the texture may soften a bit.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t generally recommended for the Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe—fresh tomatoes and basil don’t hold up well to freezing and will lose their lovely texture—you can freeze any extra sauce before adding the pasta. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen things up. Or enjoy it cold, almost like a pasta salad, for the perfect lunch on a hot day.

FAQs

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of angel hair?

Absolutely! While angel hair soaks up the light, juicy sauce beautifully, regular spaghetti also works great in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it al dente and toss while hot for the best result.

How long can I marinate the tomato mixture?

For optimal flavor, allow the tomatoes to marinate at room temperature for 4 to 8 hours. This draws out their juices and deepens the flavor, giving you the signature taste of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe. Avoid marinating overnight, as the tomatoes can lose their texture.

Is it safe to leave the marinated tomatoes out for hours?

Yes, as long as you use fresh, high-quality ingredients and the tomatoes are kept covered, the acidity from the tomatoes and salt helps preserve them during the marination process. Just don’t exceed 8 hours at room temperature.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Definitely! This recipe is super versatile. Add grilled zucchini, eggplant, or a handful of baby spinach for extra veggies. Grilled shrimp or chicken are also delicious additions if you want more protein.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Fresh basil is key for getting that distinctive garden-fresh flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, substitute with a smaller amount of good-quality pesto or another soft herb like parsley. Dried basil isn’t recommended, as it lacks the vibrancy you want in this dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe that captures the absolute soul of summer—fresh, unfussy, and endlessly delicious. Let the sunshine in with this joyful bowl and share it with the people you love. Give it a try; you’ll see why it’s a recipe worth returning to year after year!

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of summer. Cherry tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese come together with angel hair pasta for a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal.

Ingredients

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Tomato Mixture:

4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup good-quality olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Additional Ingredients:

1 lb angel hair pasta
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Extra basil and cheese for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic, and chopped basil. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 4-8 hours.
Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook angel hair pasta until al dente, about 3–4 minutes. Drain.
Combine: Toss drained pasta with tomato mixture. Add Parmesan cheese and toss again to coat.
Serve: Garnish with additional basil and cheese. Serve warm or at room temperature.