Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes a craving for light, refreshing, and delicious meals that showcase the best of the season’s produce. One of our favorite ingredients to feature in these warm-weather dishes is arugula – its peppery flavor and tender texture make it the perfect addition to countless pasta recipes. In this article, we’ll be sharing 19 fresh arugula pasta recipes that are sure to become a staple on your summer menu. From classic combinations like lemon garlic and parmesan to more adventurous pairings featuring sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, these dishes are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling cool and refreshed.
Lemon Garlic Arugula Pasta with Parmesan
This recipe combines the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and parmesan with the peppery kick of arugula, all on a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with arugula mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Top with grated parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Arugula Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
Transform a simple pasta dish into a flavorful masterpiece with this creamy arugula pesto recipe, featuring toasted pine nuts and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups fresh arugula
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine arugula, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add heavy cream and process until well combined.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if desired for a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Spicy Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta: A flavorful and refreshing pasta dish that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in arugula leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-arugula mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta
This salad is a perfect blend of peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all tied together with a light vinaigrette. It’s an ideal side dish for summer gatherings or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Add cooked pasta to the salad bowl and toss with the dressing until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Arugula Pasta with Lemon Zest
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the pungency of roasted garlic, the peppery bite of arugula, and the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 4-6 cloves garlic
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated lemon zest (about 1 tsp)
– Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add arugula and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Add roasted garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss with pasta.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Garnish with lemon zest and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
White Wine Arugula Pasta with Shrimp
Savor a light and flavorful dish that combines the brightness of white wine and peppery arugula with succulent shrimp. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry Riesling or Pinot Grigio)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in white wine and simmer until reduced by half, scraping up any browned bits (about 2 minutes).
5. Add arugula and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on classic stuffed shells. Fresh arugula adds a peppery flavor to the creamy ricotta filling, making for a delightful twist on a comfort food classic.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, arugula, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Arugula Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the peppery flavor of arugula, all wrapped up in a delicious chicken and pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush balsamic glaze on both sides of the chicken during the last minute of cooking.
5. Toss arugula with pasta, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and serve on top of pasta and arugula.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Arugula Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this quick and flavorful one-pot recipe, packed with peppery arugula and sweet cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
3. In the same pot, add olive oil and cook garlic for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in arugula leaves and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Cook until arugula is wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-arugula mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula Pasta with Walnuts and Lemon
This recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the crunch of walnuts and a squeeze of lemon, making for a perfect springtime pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and arugula mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Arugula Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the peppery taste of arugula, all wrapped up with crispy prosciutto and al dente pasta. A simple yet impressive dinner option perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups arugula leaves
- 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
- Add pasta, arugula, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the brown butter and arugula is slightly wilted.
- Crisp prosciutto in a separate pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy.
- Serve pasta with crispy prosciutto on top. Add lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying pasta bake that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or bow-tie)
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add arugula and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, wilted arugula, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Arugula Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
This vibrant pasta dish celebrates the flavors of summer, combining the sweetness of fresh mozzarella, the pungency of arugula, and the creaminess of basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Add sliced mozzarella cheese to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, arugula leaves, and tomato-mozzarella mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Arugula Pasta with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the brightness of arugula with the richness of garlic and a spicy kick from chili flakes, all on top of al dente pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add arugula leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and arugula mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash and Arugula Pasta
Roasted Butternut Squash and Arugula Pasta: A vibrant and flavorful autumnal dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the peppery bite of arugula, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta.
Ingredients:
• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 12 oz. pasta of your choice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups arugula leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet; roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat garlic over medium heat; add arugula and cook until wilted.
6. Add roasted squash, cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the skillet; toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Arugula Pasta with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of caramelized onions, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and peppery arugula in a simple yet elegant pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Toss cooked pasta with reserved pasta water, then add arugula leaves and caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide pasta among plates, topping each portion with crumbled gorgonzola cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Arugula and Peas
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, featuring arugula and peas as the stars of the show. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add arugula and peas to the skillet. Cook until arugula is slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summery Arugula Pasta with Grilled Corn and Basil
Capture the essence of summer with this refreshing pasta dish featuring grilled corn, peppery arugula, and sweet basil. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a warm-weather meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh arugula
– 2 cups sliced grilled corn (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add grilled corn and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add arugula and basil to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the corn-arugula mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula and Sausage Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty, flavorful dish that combines spicy Italian sausage, peppery arugula, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; add heavy cream and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and arugula in a large serving bowl.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste; top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Stay cool this summer with these refreshing arugula pasta recipes! From classic combinations like lemon garlic and parmesan to creative twists like creamy pesto and roasted butternut squash, there’s something for every taste. These 19 fresh recipes showcase the peppery flavor of arugula paired with ingredients like cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and goat cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty salad or a rich and creamy pasta bake, these summer-inspired dishes are sure to become new favorites.