Tell the truth. Sometimes “everyday life” and “summer” are not always compatible. At least for me, I can spend one day working on my entire to-do list and the next day doing almost nothing. That means dinner on day two isn’t at the top of your priority list. One of my favorite ways to enjoy a carefree day is with summer pasta recipes that satisfy every hot-season craving. These picks are a super easy solution for lunches and dinners at home or on the go, and the whole family is sure to love them. It would be difficult not to.
Pasta is a staple in our kitchen all year round. I’ve never turned down a cheesy lasagna in the summer, but I often opt for summer pasta recipes with bright, light flavors like citrus and olive oil. Combine with protein to create a heartier bowl or simply enjoy as a complement to a main dish. Whichever you choose, these summer pasta recipes are a no-brainer.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
13 summer pasta recipes to color summer
In this relaxing moment of summer, I realized that with the passing of time (time seems to be passing faster and faster, I’m not the only one), they pass us by if we’re not in tune with what makes us happy.it definitely no summer mantra. Rather, it’s much more fun when we can recognize what excites us and find ways to make it more present in our lives.
If we are not attuned to what makes us happy, they will pass us by.
But you may be wondering what this has to do with pasta. What else brings me joy is cooking simple dishes, celebrating seasonal flavors and savoring the moments of relaxation that accompany meals. These summer pasta recipes are perfect for enjoying the sweet spontaneity of the season and elevating every day. It’s time to relax and have fun. That’s what summer is all about.
Lemon Spring Pasta Salad with Olives, Artichokes and Bacon
Why we love it: When I want to incorporate lemon into my pasta recipe, I turn to this dish. There’s a lot to love about the combination of crunchy arugula and bacon that accentuates the sweet citrus flavor of lemon.
Hero Ingredients: Artichokes are a highly underrated yet versatile ingredient.
green goddess pasta salad
Why we love it: this lean, green, fighting machine The pasta is vegan, full of vegetables and very tasty. It’s the easiest way to get your day’s worth of vegetables while enjoying a flavorful lunch or dinner and feel refreshed. Please register.
Hero Ingredients: I’d be lying if I said the green goddess dressing wasn’t the star here, but props have to be given to Avocado. Creamy and definitely worth indulging in.
lemon cream pasta
Why we love it: Creamy things may not be at the top of your summer food vocabulary, but this pasta defies the rules and brings a fresh approach to indulgence. Yes, the base of the sauce is butter and cream (which is really drinkable), but the addition of lemon lightens the taste and makes it more suitable for summer.
Hero Ingredients: A firm hand is key when it comes to herbs and red pepper flakes.
Creamy vegan pasta with tomato and basil
Why we love it: This recipe continues to be on my rotation, and every time I make it, it amazes me with its flavor. The walnut sauce is exquisite, the freshly popped tomatoes are unparalleled, and the whole dish is ready in about 15 minutes. Too good to be real? Make your own and find out.
Hero Ingredients: Layer the decorations again. Lemon zest, basil and red pepper flakes make this pasta shine.
Brussels sprouts and kale pesto rigatoni
Why we love it: Stuffed with green veggies, this kale pesto, brussel sprout encrusted pasta is packed with flavor and goodness. Think walnuts, olives, and lots of vegetables. We all work together to deliver pasta that tastes like heaven.
Hero Ingredients: WARNING: Pour silky kale pesto on anything.
spaghetti alla nerano
Why we love it: Thinly sliced, golden-yellow zucchini are the centerpiece of this dish inspired by the traditional spaghetti alla nerano. He’s ready in just 15 minutes, so it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or dinner party. And with zucchini in abundance this time of year, there’s never been a better time to make this simple but impressive dish.
Hero Ingredients: Basil, basil, more basil.
Spaghetti with Garlic Shrimp, Asparagus and Tomatoes
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a more substantial, protein-focused pasta, look no further than this Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti. Inspired by the Mediterranean diet, some healthy vegetables are incorporated into the mix. Perfect for a satisfying summer lunch or dinner that fills you up without weighing you down.
Hero Ingredients: These tomatoes simmer beautifully to an almost jam-like consistency. Hmm.
One-pot pasta primavera with summer vegetables and ricotta cheese
Why we love it: More vegetables! I really can’t get enough of summer pasta recipes that celebrate seasonal ingredients. In this case, it’s all about asparagus, broccolini (a personal favorite), peas, and cherry he tomatoes. All come together to create a delicious pasta primavera.
Hero Ingredients: Ricotta cheese brings all kinds of creaminess to the table. (Rather noodles.) It’s like a cheesy blanket that’s light enough to make up a great summer pasta recipe.
Lemon pasta carbonara with peas and zucchini
Why we love it: This carbonara is a little lighter than the traditional pancetta-filled dish popular this time of year. Substituting peas and zucchini for salty meat, this creamy vegetarian version is best enjoyed outdoors.
Hero Ingredients: Peas, of course. The time has come for these small but mighty superstars to get the recognition they deserve.
Photo: processed in VSCO with s2 preset
summer pasta salad
Why we love it: Caramelized grilled veggies and swirled pasta go well together. This is the type of pasta salad you’ll want to keep on hand all summer long, and it’s a popular all-around menu item for barbecues. It’s also packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats. Victory on all fronts.
Hero Ingredients: Kalamata olives bring a salty saltiness that makes everything else pop.
Summer spaghetti with tomatoes, burrata and basil
Why we love it: A mega-creamy burrata carefully coats each noodle to create a perfect dish for breakfast, lunch or dinner. seriously. If you think it sounds a little heavy for summer nights, think again. The “sauce” is made with tomatoes, olive oil and garlic. Please give me the biggest bowl you have.
Hero Ingredients: For simple pasta, use fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and good olive oil. The proof is in pudding, no, pasta.
One Pot Garlic Mushroom Pasta with Sausage and Arugula
Why we love it: I know what you are thinking. Sausage is not exactly a “light” summer pasta. But I don’t think so. This is why. This recipe uses only a small amount of Italian he sausage to basically mimic a sausage and mushroom pizza (delicious), and the sauce is just lemon zest and juice, arugula, parmesan cheese, and a little butter. I call it “light” because you can eat it for lunch without prolonging the rest of your day, or enjoy your dinner without feeling too full. Please do not ask any further questions.
Hero Ingredients: I have always been a mushroom person. Very nutritious and always delicious.
Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese and Lemon Tahini Dressing
Why we love it: Too hot to eat hot noodles? No problem. This summery pasta salad is loaded with all kinds of vegetables and herbs, and topped with a miso tahini dressing that makes it even more delicious. Healthy, balanced and easy to savor on a hot summer day.
Hero Ingredients: It’s really delicious with plenty of salty feta cheese in every bite. Try picking some cubes with your finger. I know you do.
This post was originally published on May 28, 2022 and has since been updated.
