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If you want to bring vibrant, fresh flavors to your next gathering, look no further than the Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe. This radiant dish is an ode to summer’s bounty, combining juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and sharp Parmesan cheese with delicate angel hair pasta. The magical part? It’s dressed with a garlicky olive oil marinade that seeps into every bite, creating a pasta salad that’s bursting with brightness and just a little kick. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a family dinner, or craving a refreshing side, this recipe feels like a warm hug from Ina herself.

Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this pasta salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is a superstar on its own but comes together to create a dish that’s layered with texture, color, and flavor. Every element—from the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes to the fresh herbal notes of basil—is essential to achieving that perfect summer taste.

Cherry tomatoes (900 g or 32 oz): Halved for a burst of sweet juiciness that lightly marinates into the pasta.
Olive oil (1/2 cup): Rich and fruity, it forms the luscious base of the marinade.
Garlic cloves (6 tbsp, minced): Packed with aromatic punch, balancing the freshness with a hint of heat.
Fresh basil leaves (18 large, julienned): Bright and fragrant, adding vibrant green color and herbal flavor.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp): Just enough to add a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors and ties everything together.
Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a warm spiciness and depth.
Angel hair pasta (454 g or 1 lb): Delicate and thin, perfect for soaking up the garlicky tomato marinade.
Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 cups or 6 oz, grated, plus extra for serving): Creamy and salty, it melts into the pasta for an irresistible finish.
Extra fresh basil leaves: For garnish, adding a fresh, aromatic touch to the final dish.

How to Make Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Create the Flavor-Packed Tomato Marinade

Begin by tossing your halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, julienned basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix so that every tomato is kissed by the flavorful marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and let this medley sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, up to 4 hours, the deeper the flavors meld into a juicy, aromatic base that will wonderfully infuse the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta to Perfection

While your tomato mixture marinates, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until just al dente, following package instructions. Remember, angel hair cooks rapidly, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly but do not rinse. Keeping it warm and starchy allows it to soak up every drop of that luscious tomato marinade.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Marinade

Immediately toss the hot, drained pasta into the bowl with your tomato mixture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently toss everything together. The cheese will melt on contact and create a silky coating that clings to each strand of pasta. Use a large spoon to scoop up the garlicky tomato juices, making sure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Add Fresh Basil and Finish

Finish by adding a handful of extra fresh basil leaves for another hit of vibrant herbaceousness. Give the salad one gentle final toss, taste for seasoning, and add more salt or pepper if needed. Before serving, top with some extra grated Parmesan cheese to elevate your presentation and taste. This pasta salad is delightful warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a refreshing summer meal.

How to Serve Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Garnish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few whole fresh basil leaves. Not only do they add an elegant and colorful touch, but their aroma enhances the bright flavors already present. For an extra flourish, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving brings a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal. Imagine serving it alongside a fresh green salad or even roasted vegetables for a medley of textures. It also shines brightly as a stand-alone dish at picnics and barbecue buffets.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out cherry tomatoes or mini bell peppers for individual bites. You can also layer it in clear glass jars for a vibrant picnic presentation. Using a rustic wooden bowl adds warmth, perfectly complementing the earthy flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the delicate tomatoes and fresh herbs can lose their texture and vibrancy upon thawing. To maintain the best flavor and consistency, it’s better to enjoy fresh or refrigerated leftovers.

Reheating

If you prefer your pasta salad warm, gently reheat leftovers in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan to refresh the flavors and texture without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is perfect because it delicately absorbs the marinade, you can use other thin pasta types like linguine or spaghetti. Just avoid very thick or chunky pasta to keep the dish balanced.

How long should the tomatoes marinate for best results?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes gives a great flavor infusion, but letting it sit for up to 4 hours at room temperature really deepens the taste and softens the tomatoes into a juicy relish.

Is this salad better served warm or cold?

It’s wonderfully versatile! Enjoy the salad warm or at room temperature for fresh, juicy flavor, or chill it for a refreshing dish on hot days. Both ways highlight different aspects of the salad’s charm.

Can I prepare this pasta salad vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for that signature umami kick. The rest of the salad remains deliciously fresh and flavorful.

What kind of olive oil works best for this recipe?

Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity, peppery note. It truly elevates the marinade and complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Give the Ina Garten Summer Garden Pasta Salad Recipe a try and you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved summer staple. Its perfect balance of fresh, garlicky, and cheesy flavors, combined with the juicy tomatoes and bright basil, makes it a dish that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whip it up for your next meal, and enjoy a true taste of summer in every bite!