As the temperature rises and summer officially arrives, our minds start wandering to lighter, fresher, and more flavorful dishes that can help us beat the heat. And what better way to do so than with a delicious and satisfying pasta dish? In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing summer pasta recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for warm weather meals.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic shrimp pasta and tomato basil spaghetti, to innovative twists like avocado pesto pasta and peach and prosciutto farfalle, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty cold noodle salad or a hearty grilled vegetable orzo, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned as we dive into each recipe, sharing the secrets to making these dishes perfect for your summer gatherings, potlucks, or just a quick weeknight meal.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful lemon garlic shrimp pasta recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of choice (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Combine with cooked pasta, tossing to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Spaghetti
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant basil is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce, tossing gently to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of fresh basil and the comfort of pasta. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti. Add the reserved water to the avocado mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and avocado pesto in a large serving bowl. Toss until coated evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad
This colorful salad combines the flavors of grilled vegetables with the creamy texture of orzo, perfect for a quick and easy summer meal. With minimal preparation time, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you still want to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, onions)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, grilled vegetables, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of sesame dressing with the satisfying crunch of noodles and vegetables, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1/2 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame dressing and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
3. Add cooked noodles, red bell pepper, cucumber, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, making it a quick and easy option for any occasion.
Caprese Pasta with Balsamic Glaze
Combine the flavors of Italy’s famous Caprese salad with al dente pasta and a rich balsamic glaze for a deliciously simple yet impressive dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Add sliced mozzarella cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with tomato-mozzarella mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of summer with this light and refreshing recipe that combines zucchini noodles, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with cherry tomatoes and garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peach and Prosciutto Farfalle
This refreshing pasta dish combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the salty crunch of prosciutto, all wrapped up in a delicate farfalle (bow-tie) shape. Perfect for a light summer dinner or a romantic evening in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced peaches and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in prosciutto slices and cook until crispy, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, peach-prosciutto mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber Mint Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and mint with al dente pasta for a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, chopped mint leaves, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Spicy Mango Chicken Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines succulent chicken, sweet mango, and spicy peppers to create a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add soy sauce, ginger, red bell pepper, and yellow onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add diced mango to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and vegetable mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Pasta with Fresh Herbs
This recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes. Perfect for warm weather or as a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with yogurt mixture until well coated.
4. If desired, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Watermelon Feta Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese for a light and satisfying summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallop Linguine
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the richness of garlic butter and the classic Italian pasta dish, linguine. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 8 oz linguine
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Add white wine (if using) to the skillet and stir to deglaze. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and garlic butter sauce in a large serving dish. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of pesto with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and olive oil over medium heat. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chilled Soba Noodles with Edamame
This refreshing summer dish combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the creamy sweetness of edamame, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced edamame and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, grated ginger, and salt. Add cooked soba noodles and toss to combine.
4. Add the cooked edamame to the noodle mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Pasta
A refreshing twist on classic shrimp pasta, this recipe combines the brightness of lime and cilantro with succulent shrimp and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add lime juice, cilantro, and garlic to skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to skillet, tossing to coat with the lime-cilantro sauce.
5. Return shrimp to skillet and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Corn and Bacon Penne
Roasted Corn and Bacon Penne Recipe
Savor the sweetness of roasted corn and the smokiness of crispy bacon wrapped up with penne pasta for a delightful one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add olive oil to the skillet and sauté diced onion until translucent.
5. Add corn kernels to the skillet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted corn mixture, and crispy bacon in a large bowl. Toss with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, feta cheese, and pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Peanut Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Cold Peanut Noodle Salad combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut butter mixture, scallions, and peanuts.
4. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking noodles) + chilling time
Herbed Goat Cheese Pasta with Arugula
A light and refreshing pasta dish perfect for a spring evening, this recipe combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the peppery flavor of arugula. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful pasta in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, mix goat cheese, olive oil, garlic, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until well combined. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Divide arugula leaves among plates or bowls. Top with herbed goat cheese pasta and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Stay cool this summer with these refreshing pasta recipes! From classic combinations like tomato basil spaghetti and caprese pasta, to innovative twists like peach and prosciutto farfalle and cucumber mint pasta salad, there’s something for every taste. Spicy mango chicken pasta and garlic butter scallop linguine add a savory kick, while chilled soba noodles with edamame and herbed goat cheese pasta with arugula provide a light and satisfying bite. Plus, sweet treats like strawberry spinach pasta salad and watermelon feta pasta salad offer a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes.
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