When the temperature rises, there’s nothing quite like a cold, satisfying bowl of pasta to hit the spot. Summer pasta dishes don’t have to be heavy or rich – in fact, some of the best ones are light, bright, and packed with fresh flavors. From zesty lemon garlic shrimp pasta to refreshing cucumber mint salad, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most mouthwatering summer pasta recipes that will keep you cool all season long.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for your next barbecue, these pasta recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all perfect for hot summer days when the last thing you want to do is stand over a stove. So go ahead, grab a fork, and dive into our roundup of the best summer pasta recipes.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This quick and flavorful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a bright and citrusy lemon garlic sauce, served over al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add lemon juice and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Combine cooked shrimp and sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta Salad
A classic summer salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil and the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 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 cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Assembly and serving: 5 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and healthy twist on traditional pesto pasta, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of fresh herbs for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the avocado pesto, seasoning to taste.
4. Serve immediately, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Mango Chicken Pasta
Spicy Mango Chicken Pasta Recipe
Summary: A flavorful and spicy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of chili flakes to create a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh mango chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mango, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mango-chicken mixture. Top with cilantro and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Pasta
This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of grilled vegetables with the comfort of pasta, all in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine grilled vegetables, cooked pasta, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a great side dish or light lunch. With its crunchy texture and nutty flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until smooth.
3. Add cooked noodles, scallions, sesame seeds, and cucumber to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled.
Caprese Pasta with Balsamic Glaze
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a rich balsamic glaze, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the 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 mozzarella slices to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing them to melt slightly.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the tomato-mozzarella mixture, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the pasta and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer in a light and refreshing dish. With zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of basil, this pasta alternative is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber Mint Pasta Salad
Refresh your senses with this light and refreshing summer pasta salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the coolness of cucumber with the invigorating flavor of mint.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumber, chopped mint, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Peach and Prosciutto Pasta
Peachy Keen Pasta: A Sweet and Savory Twist!
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with the salty flavor of prosciutto, creating a unique and delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, torn into strips
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the diced peaches and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to caramelize.
4. Add the prosciutto strips and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the peach-prosciutto mixture, tossing to coat. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chilled Greek Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the bright taste of Greece, perfect for hot summer days. With its colorful mix of vegetables and tangy feta cheese, it’s a delicious side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooled orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onion to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time)
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce with sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, combine pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with pesto-sun-dried tomato mixture.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Watermelon Feta Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 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 diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Crab Pasta
Rich and flavorful, this Garlic Butter Crab Pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with a savory garlic butter sauce, served over al dente pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat and stir gently to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. If using white wine and heavy cream, add to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with garlic butter crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Bacon Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of sweet corn, crispy bacon, and tangy dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn kernels, and diced bacon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle dried basil and chopped parsley or chives (if using) over the salad.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines sweet strawberries with earthy spinach and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 4 cups baby spinach leaves
– 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 sliced strawberries and baby spinach leaves.
3. Add crumbled feta cheese and toss gently to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour dressing over strawberry-spinach mixture and toss to coat.
6. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the bright flavors of cilantro and lime with succulent shrimp and pasta, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Peanut Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this cold peanut noodle salad combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the crunch of noodles and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until well coated with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta with Olives and Feta
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean in this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Combining tender noodles, briny olives, crumbly feta, and a hint of herbs, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
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 garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in cooked pasta, crumbled feta, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic (if using) and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add goat cheese, parsley, chives, and thyme to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated with the herbed goat cheese mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing pasta recipes! From light and tangy to rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered. Try our Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, Tomato Basil Pasta Salad, or Avocado Pesto Pasta for a taste of the Mediterranean. Or, opt for something sweet like Peach and Prosciutto Pasta or Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad. Whatever your mood, there’s a pasta recipe here to match.