Welcome to our kitchen where we’re celebrating the peak of summer with a delightful pasta dish inspired by none other than Ina Garten. This Summer Garden Pasta recipe is a testament to using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. Join us as we dive into how to make this pasta masterpiece step-by-step, and discover tips and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
Gather the ingredients needed for Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta:
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil leaves, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Roast the Tomatoes:
- Spread the seasoned cherry tomatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and begin to caramelize slightly. The roasting process intensifies their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Combine Pasta and Tomatoes:
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta with the roasted cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine, ensuring to scrape any flavorful juices and bits from the baking sheet into the bowl.
- Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Gradually sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and tomatoes. Toss gently to allow the cheese to melt and coat the pasta evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up and create a silky sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the Summer Garden Pasta immediately while it’s still hot. Garnish with additional julienned basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. The fresh basil adds a burst of herbaceous flavor and complements the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes.
Cooking Notes
- Tomato Varieties: Experiment with different varieties of cherry tomatoes for varied colors and flavors. Heirloom cherry tomatoes or mixed-color varieties can add visual interest to the dish.
- Fresh Basil: To preserve the fresh aroma and flavor of basil, tear or slice the basil leaves just before using them. This ensures they retain their vibrant color and herbaceous essence.
- Pasta Cooking Water: The starchy pasta cooking water not only helps to loosen the pasta and create a silky sauce but also enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Use it sparingly as needed.
Variations
Add Protein:
- Incorporate grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or Italian sausage slices to make this dish more substantial and protein-rich. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it with the pasta and tomatoes before serving.
Vegetarian Option:
- For a vegetarian version, skip adding meat and focus on enhancing the flavors with additional vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts.
Creamy Twist:
- For a creamy variation, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or cream cheese into the pasta along with the Parmesan cheese. This adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish while still highlighting the fresh flavors of the garden ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the stove to the table. Serve it as a main dish for a light summer dinner or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing summer cocktail to complete the meal.
In conclusion, Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta embodies the essence of summer with its simple yet flavorful ingredients. From the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes to the aromatic basil and creamy Parmesan cheese, each bite is a celebration of the season’s bounty. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta dish promises to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Embrace the spirit of summer in your kitchen and indulge in this delightful pasta creation!
