Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta recipe has been my go-to summer dish. As with most recipes, I can’t help but tweak and experiment. Below Ina’s recipe are four delicious variations I’ve concocted.

Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (Ina uses angel hair)
• 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup good olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
• 18 large basil leaves, julienned
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Tomatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir together and let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
2. Cook the Pasta: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of water with a generous amount of salt to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.
3. Combine: Add the hot pasta to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. The heat from the pasta will gently warm the tomatoes and release their juices.
4. Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta and toss again until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves. Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful summer pasta!

Variations:

1. Chilled Caprese Pasta Salad

Swap in cooked bowtie pasta (though any shape works) and rinse it in cold water before tossing it in the tomato mixture along with tiny fresh mozzarella balls for a refreshing twist.

2. Tomato Burrata Salad 

Ditch the pasta entirely and pair the marinated tomatoes with peppery arugula, creamy burrata, and salty prosciutto for a light and indulgent meal.

3. Bruschetta-Style Grilled Sourdough

Grill thick slices of sourdough and top them with the marinated tomato mixture for a delicious appetizer.

4. Gourmet Pizza Upgrade

Breath new life into a frozen pizza by spreading leftover marinated tomatoes on top before baking.

This recipe is perfect for a hot summer day, as it features fresh, juicy tomatoes and a touch of basil, making it both light and satisfying. Let me know if you try the recipe!