Description
Ina's Summer Garden Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish featuring organic cherry tomatoes marinated with garlic, basil, and olive oil, tossed with whole wheat angel hair pasta and topped with grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Perfect for a light summer meal, this recipe showcases simple, wholesome ingredients combined for bright, delicious flavors.
Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 2 pints organic cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup good olive oil
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 9 large organic basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- Fresh ground pepper to taste
Pasta & Garnish
- 8 ounces organic whole wheat capellini or angel hair pasta (half of a 1 lb. package)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil leaves, crushed red pepper, Kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the tomatoes and seasonings evenly.
- Marinate at room temperature: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it out at room temperature for about 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to release their juices, creating a fresh sauce base.
- Cook the pasta: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat capellini or angel hair pasta (do not add oil to the cooking water) and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and tomato mixture: Drain the pasta well and immediately transfer it to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and cheese.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of Parmigiano cheese before serving.
Notes
- Do not add oil to the pasta cooking water as it prevents the sauce from sticking to the noodles.
- Letting the tomato mixture marinate at room temperature enhances the flavor and texture.
- If Parmigiano Reggiano is not available pre-grated, grate it freshly from a block using a food processor or grater for best flavor.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
- This recipe can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled, making it ideal for summer dining.
