If you’re searching for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious summer dish to wow your friends and family, the Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad combines the sweetness of sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, the fragrant punch of fresh garlic and basil, and the comforting texture of delicate angel hair pasta, all tied together with a gorgeous Parmesan finish. It’s so simple yet bursting with layers of flavor, making it a perfect picnic addition or a light, refreshing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a sunny day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing to the balanced flavors, inviting textures, and vibrant colors that make this salad shine. From juicy tomatoes to fragrant basil and the luscious Parmesan cheese, every component is essential for creating that signature garden-fresh taste.
- Cherry tomatoes (900 g / 32 oz): These provide juicy sweetness and a pop of color that makes the salad visually stunning.
- Olive oil (1/2 cup): A smooth, fruity base that mellows the tomatoes and helps fuse all the flavors together.
- Garlic cloves, minced (6 tbsp): Adds an aromatic kick and depth to the marinade.
- Fresh basil leaves, julienned (18 large): Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that’s signature to summer dishes.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp): Just enough heat to brighten and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances every flavor to perfectly seasoned perfection.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle spiciness and complexity.
- Angel hair pasta (454 g / 1 lb): Its delicate strands are perfect for absorbing the juicy marinade flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 cups / 6 oz), plus extra for serving: Brings a nutty, salty richness that ties the whole dish together.
- Extra fresh basil leaves: For a bright, fresh garnish that makes every bite burst with garden goodness.
How to Make Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Create the Tomato Marinade
Start by combining your halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground pepper in a large bowl. Toss everything gently to mix. This simple marinade infuses the tomatoes with a punch of flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have the time. This slow mingling of flavors is the secret to that unforgettable taste.
Step 2: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, generously salted to season the pasta from the inside out. Add the angel hair and cook just until al dente—this ensures a tender texture that won’t get mushy once tossed in the marinade. Drain the pasta thoroughly but do not rinse it. The warmth and starch on the noodles help soak up all those delicious, garlicky juices.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Pour the hot pasta right into the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Add the generous amount of grated Parmesan and gently toss everything together. The heat from the pasta slightly melts the cheese, which beautifully coats the noodles and melds with the flavorful marinade. Don’t just stir—use a large spoon to scoop all the garlicky tomato juices from the bottom for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Finish With Fresh Basil and Serve
To bring the salad to its full summer glory, add a handful of fresh basil leaves and give it one final gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before serving. Whether you enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled for later, this salad promises freshness and vibrant flavors in every mouthful.
How to Serve Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese are classic garnishes that elevate and brighten this vibrant salad. For a little extra flair, you might also add thinly sliced green onions or a splash of extra virgin olive oil just before serving to refresh the palate and enhance the dish’s aroma.
Side Dishes
This summer garden pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crusty artisan bread, or even a light seafood dish like grilled shrimp. Its refreshing, bright flavors are perfect to complement any summer meal, making it a versatile addition to your barbecues or weekday dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this salad in individual mason jars for picnics or outdoor meals. You can also pile it atop a bed of mixed greens for a hearty pasta salad bowl or stuff it into hollowed-out heirloom tomatoes as an edible and eye-catching presentation. The possibilities are endless, and always delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad tastes fantastic chilled, but the pasta will continue to soak up the marinade, so if you prefer a firmer texture, consider slightly undercooking the pasta initially.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the fresh tomatoes and basil lose their texture and brightness after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Reheating
If you prefer to serve the salad warm, gently reheat a portion in the microwave or a skillet over low heat. Avoid overheating to prevent the fresh basil and delicate textures from wilting or turning bitter. Otherwise, it’s equally delightful served cold straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While angel hair is traditional and perfect for absorbing the marinade, you can also use thin spaghetti, linguine, or even small shapes like orzo or bow ties if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure al dente texture.
Is the salad better served warm or cold?
This salad is versatile and tastes amazing either way. Warm allows the Parmesan to melt and flavors to meld more intensely, while cold offers a refreshing and crisp bite—choose based on your mood or the occasion.
Can I prepare the tomato marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato marinade several hours ahead or even the night before. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bring it back to room temperature before adding the pasta for the best flavor absorption.
How spicy is the salad?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle hint of heat, enough to complement the sweetness of the tomatoes without overpowering the other flavors. You can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Final Thoughts
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together effortlessly for a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share. It’s a reliable staple that brightens any summer gathering and even more importantly, it’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the warm weather with loved ones. I promise once you try it, this salad will be on your regular rotation for sunny days and casual dinners alike!
Print
Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring marinated cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese tossed with tender angel hair pasta. This refreshing pasta salad can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it perfect for summer gatherings and easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Tomato Marinade
- 900 g (32 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 6 tbsp garlic cloves, minced
- 18 large fresh basil leaves, julienned
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 454 g (1 lb) angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups (6 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for serving
- Extra fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Create the Tomato Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil leaves, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to mix everything well.
- Marinate the Tomatoes: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld for a delicious base salad flavor.
- Cook the Angel Hair Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Drain the pasta well but do not rinse it to ensure the hot noodles absorb the tomato marinade.
- Assemble the Salad: Immediately add the hot, drained pasta to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently until the cheese melts and coats the pasta while the marinade is absorbed by the noodles. Use a large spoon to scoop up all the garlicky tomato juices from the bottom.
- Finish and Serve: Add a handful of extra fresh basil leaves to the pasta salad and gently toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Top with additional Parmesan cheese before serving. The salad can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a refreshing summer dish.
Notes
- Do not rinse the pasta after cooking so it can better absorb the tomato marinade flavors.
- Allow the tomato mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- This salad can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled, making it versatile for meal prep or entertaining.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer less or more heat.
