Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to indulge in refreshing and light pasta dishes that are perfect for hot days. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a show-stopping dinner party dish, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite summer pasta recipes that incorporate fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic shrimp and tomato basil spaghetti to more adventurous options like mango coconut noodle salad and spicy Thai peanut noodles, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? These dishes are all perfect for serving at a summer gathering or enjoying as a quick weeknight dinner.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and beat the heat with these delicious and easy-to-make summer pasta recipes!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A bright and citrusy take on classic shrimp pasta, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and parsley with succulent shrimp and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and stir to deglaze any browned bits.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and lemon sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Spaghetti
A classic Italian dish that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss well to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of basil pesto, all wrapped up in a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, basil leaves, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the pesto mixture to the cooked pasta, tossing to combine. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Preparation time: 5-7 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of grilled summer vegetables with the creamy texture of orzo and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
3. Grill bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, grilled vegetables, feta cheese (if using), lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a hot summer day. With the combination of chewy noodles, crunchy vegetables, and nutty sesame flavor, you’ll be craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, mixed greens, and sesame dressing. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Pasta with Balsamic Glaze
A twist on the classic Caprese salad, this pasta dish combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (see below)
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add sliced mozzarella and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet with tomato-mozzarella mixture.
5. To make balsamic glaze, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Toss pasta with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes
This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the zucchini noodles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. While the noodles are roasting, heat the cherry tomatoes in a separate pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
7. Combine the roasted zucchini noodles and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mango Coconut Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines sweet mango, creamy coconut, and savory noodles for a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mango, coconut, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the mango mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Pasta Salad with Feta
Greek Pasta Salad with Feta: A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this dish combines the bold flavors of Greece with the comfort of a classic salad.
Peach and Prosciutto Linguine
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this refreshing twist on a classic pasta dish. Thin slices of prosciutto and juicy peaches combine in perfect harmony to create a taste experience that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine 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.
3. Add diced peaches and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to caramelize.
4. Add prosciutto slices to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until crispy.
5. Toss cooked linguine with peach-prosciutto mixture, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles Recipe
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a creamy noodle dish. Spicy Thai peanut noodles are a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha sauce until smooth.
3. Add water and whisk until combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until coated with the peanut sauce.
5. Top with chopped peanuts and diced scallions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, with a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber Mint Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and mint with al dente pasta, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 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 sliced cucumbers, chopped mint leaves, and cooked pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Watermelon Feta Farfalle
This unique pasta dish combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, creating a refreshing and light summer meal. Perfect for a hot day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 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 farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
3. Add cooked farfalle to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad
Pesto Tortellini Salad: A Colorful and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Salad
This Pesto Tortellini Salad is a refreshing take on the traditional pasta salad. With the creamy pesto sauce, tender tortellini, and crunchy vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Drizzle pesto sauce over the salad and toss until well coated.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallop Linguine
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet elegant recipe, featuring succulent scallops, garlic butter, and linguine pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 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 linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked linguine pasta, reserved pasta water, and garlic butter sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn and Bacon Bucatini
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bucatini
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the corn kernels to the same skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked bucatini, bacon, and corn cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chilled Soba Noodles with Edamame
This refreshing summer salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the sweetness of edamame, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar.
3. Add cooked edamame and noodles to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking noodles)
Sun-Dried Tomato and Arugula Penne
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes with the peppery bite of arugula. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne 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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add arugula leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-arugula mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing with a twist – it’s all tossed with al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the bowl with the lettuce mixture.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and toss to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
This sweet and savory pasta salad combines fresh strawberries with the earthy flavor of spinach, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine 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 cooked pasta, spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, feta cheese (if using), and nuts (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing pasta recipes! From light and zesty to cool and creamy, there’s something for everyone. Try the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a bright and citrusy twist, or go for a classic Tomato Basil Spaghetti. For a vegetarian option, the Avocado Pesto Pasta is a game-changer. And don’t forget the Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad for a satisfying and healthy meal. With so many options to choose from, you’ll never get bored of pasta this summer!
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