Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
Pasta, a staple of comfort food, is ever present, season after season. Dive into our top picks for summer pasta dishes, which highlight the peak of fresh produce, seasonal shellfish, and the essence of summer’s warmth.
Elevate the classic pasta your kids love with a twist: Heirloom tomatoes take a brief bath in boiling water, softening and infusing the pasta with a simple cheese sauce. A generous sprinkle of fresh basil transforms this into a dish reminiscent of caprese salad, perfect for an al fresco dinner.
Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
This 30-minute wonder will join your weekly dinner lineup this summer. Four leeks are thinly sliced and caramelized to create a fragrant foundation, enriched with butter, aged provolone, and Parmesan cheese. The dish shines with the addition of crispy fried leeks on top.
Summer’s zucchini bounty is upon us, and this dish is quick, easy, and uses less than ten ingredients, many likely already in your pantry. Feta cheese and lemon zest inject a tangy zing, transforming a simple pasta into a sophisticated meal.
Nature’s sweet treat brings this dish to life: Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, garlic, and oregano meld into a sweet and tangy sauce. A creamy blend of ricotta and milk fills the pasta, topped with a sprinkle of pecorino romano. This dish comes together in a flash, without a single trip to the oven.
Greens take center stage with tender asparagus, watercress, and basil, dressed in a zesty basil oil. Lemon zest and shallots accentuate the fresh flavors, while cheese-filled tortellini make this the perfect side or main course for any summer feast.
Shellfish is summer’s jewel. This pasta recipe merges Italian tradition with Korean flair, featuring a unique butter sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and gochujang for a hint of heat. Fresh shrimp and pappardelle noodles offer a balance of texture and protein, making it a standout for summer meals.
A salad that promises to delight the crowd, combining crisp cucumbers, feta, herbs, and pasta in a mustardy garlic-lemon dressing. It’s a surefire hit at summer dinner parties, especially when paired with grilled meats.
Pesto gets a twist with the addition of zucchini and cashews, creating a creamy sauce that can be enjoyed on pasta or even as a spread for chicken or sandwiches. A sprinkle of ricotta and pepper adds a finishing touch.
Roasted cherry tomatoes pack a flavor punch, complemented by Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and fresh parsley. It’s a salad that celebrates the sweetness of tomatoes and the richness of cheese.
A vibrant herby sauce is a seasonal sensation, with mint adding a refreshing note. It’s a linguine dish that not only satisfies your craving for veggies but also brings a burst of freshness.
Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Carla Gonzalez Hart
Orzo, resembling rice but actually a tiny semolina pasta, forms the base of this refreshing salad. Sweet peas, celery, shrimp, and a tangy mayo dressing create the perfect blend. The unexpected addition of dill pickles and herbs might seem odd, but it’s a flavor combination that’s sure to win you over.
Zucchini and cashews introduce a new dimension to the classic pesto, topped with dollops of ricotta and pepper. Versatile and delicious, this sauce is more than just pasta—it’s a versatile topping for chicken, sandwiches, and eggs.
A roasted cherry tomato salad with Parmesan and pine nuts is a feast for the senses. The tomatoes’ sweetness is balanced by the cheese’s sharpness and the nuts’ nuttiness, all brightened by parsley.
