Sunkissed Summer Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Table of Contents
Sun-Kissed Summer Pasta : Your New Go-To Dish
Fancy a taste of the Med without leaving your kitchen? Ever wondered how to make a summer pasta dish that's both quick and impressive? This cherry tomato pasta is it! It’s seriously bursting with flavour and is one of my favourite easy summer dinners .
A Taste of the Mediterranean
This Mediterranean pasta recipe takes inspiration from those sun-drenched Italian gardens. It's super simple, yet feels incredibly special. Think vibrant colours and fresh flavours that scream summer.
It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal and a posh picnic.
This basil pasta recipe is dead easy. We're talking beginner friendly. It takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, and it serves four.
It's a delightful way to get your veggies in. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up those summer pasta recipes you have been eyeing.
Why This Summer Pasta Is a Winner
Honestly, the best thing about this pasta with vegetables ? It's healthy and delicious. Bursting with antioxidants from the tomatoes and heart healthy olive oil.
Plus, it's perfect for those days when you want something light pasta dishes . Or maybe when you are after quick pasta meals .
The al dente pasta recipe makes it feel like a true Mediterranean dish
What makes it special? The burst cherry tomatoes! That little bit of sweetness and juiciness is heavenly. My nonna used to make something similar, and honestly, it always reminds me of summers in Italy! This version uses linguine recipes summer , but you can use spaghetti or penne, too!
Ready to dive in? Let's gather our ingredients...
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need to make this unreal summer pasta . This is gonna be dead easy, I promise! It's perfect for easy summer dinners .
We're making cherry tomato pasta at its finest, and the fresh basil pasta will blow your mind. Honestly, this pasta with vegetables is just sunshine on a plate.
Getting Your Kit Together: Ingredients & Gadgets
Here’s the lowdown on what you need. Don't worry, it's all pretty standard stuff.
Main Ingredients for Sun-Kissed Pasta
Okay, so, first up is the pasta! We're using 1 pound (450g) of pasta. Linguine recipes summer are my go-to, but spaghetti or penne works a treat too.
Olive oil is next. You will need 2 tablespoons (30ml) of extra virgin olive oil. This stuff needs to be good quality.
Seriously, it makes all the difference. Then, 2 cloves of garlic, minced of course. Fresh is best, you know? We're also grabbing 1 pint (approx.
500g) of cherry tomatoes, halved. Make sure they smell amazing. Finally you will need ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine.
Also ¼ cup (60ml) pasta water, reserved after cooking the pasta. And some ½ cup (approx. 15g) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped.
I love that.
Quality Check: If your olive oil smells funky, bin it! And your cherry tomatoes needs to be firm and shiny!
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Bombs
Don't skimp on the seasoning! ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) red pepper flakes is ideal if you like a bit of a kick.
Salt and pepper are essential, obviously! I like to use sea salt. If you don't have fresh basil, dried will do in a pinch.
Use only 1 teaspoon . This is key for a Mediterranean pasta recipe . I find that light pasta dishes are all about getting the seasoning spot on.
For cheese some ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese,
Spice Tip: Play around with different herbs. A pinch of oregano is lush, too!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple, Stupid!
Right, onto the gear. You'll need a big pot for the pasta. Obvious, I know! A large skillet is also a must.
This is for the cherry tomatoes to get all nice and blistered. Don’t forget a colander for draining the pasta.
A chopping board and knife are obviously required. Finally a garlic press is needed. A decent frying pan is essential for creating a delicious summer pasta .
Handy Hack: If you haven't got a garlic press, just finely chop the garlic. Job done! We're all about quick pasta meals here.
Oh, and definitely don’t forget a wooden spoon, as that's basically my wand in the kitchen! Getting that al dente pasta recipe perfect is really about timing and a good set of tools.
Right then, let's talk about the magic of cooking. It's not just about following a recipe. It's about bringing joy.
It is about creating something delicious with your own two hands. Especially when we're talking about dishes perfect for summer.
Like a killer summer pasta , you know?
Sun-Kissed Summer Pasta : Cooking it Right
Honestly, nailing a pasta dish is easier than you think. The key is understanding a few simple steps. And not being afraid to experiment a little.
This ain't rocket science, ducks! Now, let's get to it and make some easy summer dinners . This cherry tomato pasta is a great start.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
First, mise en place , darling. It's French, but just means get everything ready. Chop your garlic, halve your tomatoes, and measure your wine.
It saves a ton of time later. Time saving tip? Use a garlic press. Oh my gosh, it's a game changer. Now the sauce won't burn.
Safety reminder: don't cut yourself! We want yummy summer pasta recipes , not a trip to A&E.
step-by-step: From Hob to Heaven
Here's the plan:
- Cook your al dente pasta recipe . Bring water to a rolling boil. Then add your pasta.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil ( 30 seconds , don't burn it!).
- Blister those cherry tomatoes until they burst.
- Deglaze with white wine and simmer for 2 minutes .
- Add pasta and pasta water.
- Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan (optional).
- Serve.
Done, simple, delicious basil pasta ! Visual cue for doneness? The cherry tomatoes should be soft and juicy. The pasta with vegetables should be coated in sauce.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Game
Want to impress your mates? Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. It brightens everything up. Common mistake? Overcooking the pasta.
Nobody likes mushy linguine recipes summer ! make-ahead option? You can prep the tomato sauce earlier. Just add the pasta when you're ready to serve.
It is a Mediterranean pasta recipe , that screams summer!
This light pasta dishes is so fresh. It's a summer must have. If you need quick pasta meals , look no further.
Recipe Notes
Right, let's talk serving suggestions , storage tips , and how to make this summer pasta your own. Plus, a bit about why it's actually good for you, 'cause balance, innit?
Plating and Presentation - Show it off!
Honestly, this cherry tomato pasta practically begs to be shown off. I like to pile it high in a big bowl.
Then I drizzle a bit of extra olive oil. Garnish with extra basil. Serve alongside a vibrant green salad. It adds freshness.
For drinks, think crisp white wine or even homemade lemonade. Simple, but classy.
Storage Tips - Make It Last
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Mediterranean pasta recipe keeps well.
- Refrigeration: Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to three days.
- Freezing: Not really recommended, as the pasta can get a bit mushy. But, if you must, portion it out. Freeze it in freezer safe containers.
- Reheating: Microwave is fine for a quick lunch. But a skillet with a splash of water is even better. It keeps it from drying out.
Variations - Make it Yours
Fancy a tweak? Go for it!
- Dietary Adaptations: Need a vegan option? Easy! Just skip the Parmesan. Use a vegan cheese alternative. It will still taste amazing.
- Seasonal Swaps: Out of cherry tomatoes ? Don't fret. Use other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. It makes a brilliant pasta with vegetables . This dish really lends itself to easy summer dinners .
Nutrition Basics - Goodness Inside
Okay, so here's the lowdown. This summer pasta has around 500 calories per serving. It gives you good protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
The tomatoes are packed with antioxidants. And the basil? Well, it's basically sunshine in a herb. It's a tasty way to get some nutrients in.
Perfect for light pasta dishes .
So there you have it. All the extra bits and bobs to make your sun-kissed summer pasta perfect. Now, get cooking and enjoy! This basil pasta is bound to become one of your favorite summer pasta recipes .
Oh my gosh, and if you have a great al dente pasta recipe from Nonna, please, share it!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pasta works best for this summer pasta recipe?
For this Sun-Kissed Summer Pasta, I recommend using longer pasta shapes like linguine or spaghetti. They're fantastic for twirling and really soak up that lovely tomato sauce. Penne or farfalle also work well, especially if you fancy a more rustic vibe.
Ultimately, it's down to personal preference use whatever you've got lurking in the pantry, darling!
Can I make this summer pasta ahead of time?
While this summer pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements ahead of time. You can blister the tomatoes and make the sauce in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, I'd recommend cooking the pasta just before serving to avoid it becoming soggy.
No one wants a mushy pasta, now, do they?
I'm not a wine drinker is the white wine essential in this recipe? What can I substitute?
The white wine adds a lovely acidity and depth of flavour to the summer pasta sauce, but it's not strictly essential. If you're not a wine drinker, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can provide a similar tang.
Just remember to simmer it down for a minute or two to reduce the acidity slightly!
Any tips for making this summer pasta even more flavourful?
Absolutely! Don't be shy with the salt season generously throughout the cooking process, especially the pasta water. A little bit of parmesan cheese adds a salty richness to this pasta. And always, always use the best quality olive oil you can get your hands on it makes a huge difference.
Finally, consider adding a pinch of sugar to the tomatoes if they lack sweetness. It balances the acidity beautifully.
How should I store leftover summer pasta, and how long will it last?
Store any leftover summer pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as the pasta tends to absorb it. A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle simmer in a pan will do the trick.
But I'll be honest, it's so good you likely won't have any leftovers!
Is this summer pasta healthy? What about nutritional information?
This summer pasta can be part of a healthy diet. It's packed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and basil. For more nutritional benefit, you could use whole wheat pasta. Nutritional information is provided in the recipe, but this will depend on your portion size and the ingredients you use.
Remember, everything in moderation, even a good thing like this delicious pasta!
Sunkissed Summer Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoe
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |