Fresh Summer Pasta

This Fresh Summer Pasta is packed with basil, tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. A quick and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather, easy dinners, and backyard gatherings. Ready in just 20 minutes!

When the sun is shining and fresh produce is in abundance, there's nothing better than a light, flavorful pasta that lets the ingredients speak for themselves. This Fresh Summer Pasta is a celebration of simple ingredients: juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, crunchy pine nuts, and just the right amount of garlic and spice. Tossed with al dente linguine and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is as refreshing as it is satisfying.

Whether you're hosting a backyard dinner or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this pasta comes together fast and makes the most of summer's best flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Summer Pasta

• Fresh, vibrant flavors from real seasonal ingredients

• Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes

• Vegetarian-friendly and easy to adapt

• Perfect for warm weather meals and picnics

• Great for meal prep or make-ahead entertaining

This dish is all about the beauty of simplicity. When you start with high-quality ingredients, you don’t need much to make a meal that shines.

Ingredient Breakdown

1 lb Linguini Pasta

• A long, flat pasta that holds the olive oil and basil beautifully.

• Cook until al dente to maintain texture.

• You can sub with spaghetti, angel hair, or even gluten-free pasta.

Roma Tomatoes (2, diced)

• Fresh and juicy, they add brightness and acidity.

• Roma tomatoes are less watery, making them ideal for pasta dishes.

• Optional: swap in cherry tomatoes for a sweeter bite.

Fresh Basil (3 cups, chopped)

• The heart of this recipe. Use fresh only, dried basil won't do it justice.

• Chop just before using to retain its vibrant color and aroma.

Toasted Pine Nuts (½ cup)

• Adds buttery crunch and depth.

• Toasting enhances the flavor dramatically.

• Can be swapped with slivered almonds or chopped walnuts.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

• Aromatic and flavorful, gives the dish a savory base.

• Use fresh garlic for the best taste.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp)

• Adds subtle heat.

• Adjust to taste based on your spice preference.

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

• Simple seasoning brings out the natural flavors.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp)

• Extra virgin olive oil is best for its fruity, robust flavor.

• Acts as the sauce and ties all the ingredients together.

Freshly Grated Parmesan (¼ cup)

• Adds richness and salty balance.

• Grate it fresh for maximum melt and flavor.

Full Recipe: Fresh Summer Pasta

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguini pasta, cooked and drained

• 2 roma tomatoes, diced

• 3 cups fresh basil, chopped

• ½ cup toasted pine nuts

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place in a large mixing bowl.

2. Toss Ingredients: While the pasta is still warm, add the chopped basil, diced tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic. Toss well.

3. Season: Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss again until everything is well coated.

5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan just before serving.

6. Serve: Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a pasta salad-style variation.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients. The basil and tomatoes are the star here, so freshness matters.

• Don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente texture gives structure to this light dish.

• Toast the pine nuts. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet makes all the difference.

• Let it sit. If you have time, let the pasta sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully.

Ways to Customize

• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

• Go dairy-free: Skip the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

• More veggies: Add zucchini ribbons, arugula, or roasted red peppers.

• Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of ricotta or goat cheese.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Great served cold or at room temperature. Perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Serve cold: Toss with a little extra olive oil if serving chilled.

Yield: 4

Author: CookSnapBake.com

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Fresh Summer Pasta

This Fresh Summer Pasta is packed with basil, tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. A quick and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather, easy dinners, and backyard gatherings. Ready in just 20 minutes!

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 20 Min

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguini pasta, cooked and drained
• 2 roma tomatoes, diced
• 3 cups fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup toasted pine nuts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Toss Ingredients: While the pasta is still warm, add the chopped basil, diced tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic. Toss well.
3. Season: Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss again until everything is well coated.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan just before serving.
6. Serve: Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a pasta salad-style variation.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @cooksnapbake on instagram and hashtag it #SummerPasta

Craving something light, fresh, and summery? Save this Summer Pasta recipe for your next weeknight win or picnic plan!

If you make it, be sure to tag me on Instagram @cooksnapbake so I can see your delicious plate.

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