Light Pasta Dishes for Warm Weather
Light pasta dishes for warm weather focus on olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonal ingredients to create a simple Italian inspired meal that feels fresh and satisfying. This easy pasta recipe is perfect for summer lunches, relaxed dinners, and warm evenings when heavy sauces feel too much.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or large spoon
Ingredients
For the Light Pasta Dish
- 12 oz short pasta penne, fusilli, or farfalle
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil plus more to refresh before serving if needed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil torn or thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 1/2 tsp salt plus more for pasta water
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
Optional Seasonal Additions
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup zucchini thinly sliced or lightly sautéed
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or diced
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional for brightness
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Salt the water generously so the pasta is seasoned from the inside. Add the pasta and cook until just tender, stirring occasionally so it does not stick.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and shake gently to release steam. Let it cool for 3 to 5 minutes so it is warm but not hot, which helps it absorb olive oil without becoming greasy.
- While the pasta cools slightly, prepare the flavor base. In a large mixing bowl, add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and about half of the olive oil. Stir and let it sit for 2 minutes to soften the garlic.
- Add the warm pasta to the bowl and toss gently until evenly coated. This first coating helps keep the pasta light and silky even as it cools.
- Add the chopped parsley and torn basil to the pasta. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil and toss gently so the herbs are evenly distributed without bruising.
- If using optional seasonal additions, fold them in now. Add tomatoes, zucchini, mozzarella, or lemon zest and mix carefully so the pasta shape stays intact.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Light pasta dishes often need a final pinch of salt. If the pasta looks dry, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil and toss again.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so the flavors blend. Serve warm or at room temperature. If refrigerated, allow it to sit out briefly and refresh with olive oil before serving.
Notes
This pasta is best served warm or at room temperature. For meal prep, store covered in the refrigerator and refresh with olive oil and fresh herbs before serving to restore texture and flavor.