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This collection of easy summer pasta dishes will bring joy, energy, and nourishment to your summer plate. From veggie-packed creations to high-protein variations, these recipes can serve as speedy meals to fuel your busy days, no matter the season!
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Pasta is an energy-boosting, refreshing meal that allows us to indulge in delightful flavors as we take on the summer heat. It’s not just a source of energy.
It offers a relaxing and joyful experience, especially when shared with loved ones you haven’t seen for quite a while.
Bring laughter, stories, and homemade pasta to your next summer cookout. These easy summer pasta dishes are also perfect for any time of the year when you crave a satisfying meal. Picture yourself twirling spaghetti on your fork at the end of a long day—pure comfort!
Viral TikTok One Pot French Onion Pasta
I enjoy making simple summer pasta dishes for quick, refreshing meals. This is one of my favorite pasta recipes, featuring yellow onions that caramelize beautifully and complement the parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce is rich yet not overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Viral TikTok One Pot French Onion Pasta
Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola
For our weeknight dinners, pasta is always the go-to choice for my family. And thanks to this recipe, we can now make this classic Olive Garden fan favorite whenever we need a comforting pasta dish. It’s incredible how simple ingredients can create such amazing flavor.
Get the Recipe: The Closest Copycat Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola
Vegan Pasta Puttanesca
Easy summer pasta dishes can be both healthy and delicious. This vegan summery pasta recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes and is nothing short of delightful. Fresh tomatoes, black olives, and capers are the key ingredients that create a delectable balance of flavor you won’t find in any other tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Pasta Puttanesca
TikTok Viral Marry Me Chicken
Feeling exhausted after a long day? Give this TikTok recipe a try to brighten up your mood! It’s like the classic chicken pasta but even creamier and more satisfying, blending the tastiness of creamy pasta and tender chicken. You can even turn it into a healthier, keto-friendly meal using low-carb pasta.
Get the Recipe: Viral Marry Me Chicken TikTok Recipe
Nigerian Jollof Spaghetti Recipe
Discover a world of flavors by preparing easy summer pasta dishes. This Jollof Spaghetti, made with spaghetti and tomato sauce, adds a Nigerian twist to the usual Italian summer pasta recipes. Its deep, smoky flavor will leave you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: World’s Best Nigerian Jollof Spaghetti Recipe
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Easy Vegan Pumpkin Sage Pasta
Pasta and pumpkin make a heavenly combination for me! This recipe is an absolute favorite I enjoy all year round, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. I enjoy adding fresh veggies on top for added flavor and freshness, depending on the ingredients I have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Pumpkin Sage Pasta
Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Impress your family and friends by preparing easy summer pasta dishes. And thanks to the instant pot, you can make the preparation process even easier. This crowd-pleasing spaghetti bolognese will bring a burst of bright flavors to your dinner table. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook it on the stove for a few hours.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Pasta Salad With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Let me share with you the recipe that introduced me to the rich, tangy flavor of Kalamata olives! This colorful pasta salad combines Kalamata olives with cherry tomatoes, red wine vinegar, and fresh basil, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. It’s fascinating how working on easy summer pasta dishes acquaints me with enchanting ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad With Sun Dried Tomatoes
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Salmon Pesto Pasta
It’s been a while since I last used store-bought pesto. Thanks to the collection of easy summer pasta dishes I gathered, I now make my own basil pesto! This salmon pesto pasta recipe uses cheddar cheese, grated parmesan, and homemade basil pesto, resulting in an irresistible bowl of pasta.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pesto Pasta
Angel Hair Pasta Salad
Summer pasta recipes featuring angel hair pasta hold a special place in my heart. When I was younger, my mom and I would prepare them together. Now that I’m older, I enjoy experimenting with more challenging variations and adding my personal touch. I infused this fresh pasta salad with my very own homemade Italian dressing, making it uniquely mine.
Get the Recipe: Angel Hair Pasta Salad
Creamy Sweet Corn And Basil Pasta
I can never say no to easy summer pasta dishes with sweet corn! This recipe is a personal favorite of mine, and I even pack it for lunch. It’s a great change from pasta dishes with buttery tomato sauces. This is a breeze to make, only requiring olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh corn, and a few other simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sweet Corn And Basil Pasta
Orzo Salad with Feta and Chickpeas
I know this recipe may not seem like the typical choice for a potluck night, but trust me, it is! This crowd-pleasing summer pasta is packed with delicious summer veggies and homemade lemony dressing. I sometimes add more feta cheese and fresh green leafy veggies to make it even more enticing and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Salad with Feta and Chickpeas
Asparagus Pasta Salad With Pecan Pesto
I’ve always been curious about the flavor of pecan pesto! Walnut pesto salad is a beloved dish in our family, and we often serve it at gatherings. This recipe showcases a magical combination of asparagus, pecan pesto, lemon zest, and olive oil. It’s one of those easy summer pasta dishes that showcase a unique combination that will amaze everyone.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Salad with Feta and Asparagus Pasta Salad With Pecan Pesto
Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta
Even easy summer pasta dishes can enhance your culinary skills. This lemon garlic pasta may not have that creamy mozzarella sauce everyone loves, but it’s still delicious, thanks to olive oil. The incredible combination of garlic and lemon is a must-try for newbie cooks.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Garlic Pasta
Penne Al Salmone
My favorite pasta shape? Penne! However, a salad’s true flavor and charm depend on the fresh ingredients. This penne al salmone combines salmon, lemon, olive oil, white wine, and fresh herbs, creating a wholesome bowl of goodness.
Get the Recipe: Penne Al Salmone
Chicken Macaroni Salad
Add this recipe to your collection of easy summer pasta dishes. Try a new twist on the classic creamy chicken pasta to liven up your summer dinners! In this version, I used tender shredded chicken breast and gave it my personal touch by incorporating goat cheese.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Macaroni Salad
Avocado Pasta Salad With Tomato and Corn
I’ll make this the next time I’m in charge of family dinner. I’m always encouraging my parents to eat healthier, and this avocado pasta salad is the perfect dish to nudge them further down the healthy path. It uses bowtie pasta combined with corn, tomatoes, cilantro, and a touch of black pepper in a flavorful bowl ideal for a weeknight pasta dinner.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Pasta Salad With Tomato and Corn
Smoked Meatballs Marinara
Smoked meatballs marinara over pasta? Be prepared for a magical summer meal! With ground pork, eggs, Italian seasoning, homemade creamy marinara sauce, and other additional ingredients, you can savor the ultimate weeknight pasta dinner. Oh wait, you can enjoy this dish any time of the day!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs Marinara
Pasta Fredda – Italian Cold Pasta Salad
Italian cuisine has always intimidated me, especially when it comes to different pasta types. Luckily, this Italian cold pasta salad recipe provides a helpful guide, along with pasta cooking tips. Don’t hesitate to add extra cherry tomatoes and feta cheese when you give it a try. This Italian favorite seems complex, but it’s just one of those easy summer pasta dishes you can prepare at home anytime.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fredda – Italian Cold Pasta Salad
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
I used to be so unhealthy that I eat bacon and white rice as I stream movies on weekends. But now, I’ve discovered a healthier option: chicken bacon ranch pasta salad. It’s a healthier change, right?! It features cool ingredients, and you can challenge yourself by making the homemade dressing.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Gluten-Free Taco Pasta Salad (Paleo)
There’s no shortage of choices when it comes to easy summer pasta dishes. If you’re craving a hamburger but need to stay healthier, try this gluten-free taco pasta with elbow macaroni, ground beef, baby tomatoes, red pepper, and some spices. It’s a satisfying pasta meal offering a fresh twist on your favorite beef flavors.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Taco Pasta Salad (Paleo)
Caprese Ravioli
Create a unique dining experience with these easy summer pasta dishes. This caprese ravioli is so colorful you wouldn’t want to eat it! Use ravioli filled with ricotta cheese for this recipe, then serve it with grated parmesan cheese. Remember to take pictures of your Instagram-worthy meal!
Get the Recipe: Caprese Ravioli
Creamy Corn Pasta
Beat the summer heat with easy summer pasta dishes. This creamy corn pasta combines the fresh flavors of basil and grape tomatoes, along with the satisfying richness of ricotta cheese and jalapeno. It’s the perfect balance of fresh and spicy, just what you need for a delightful summer adventure.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Corn Pasta
Healthy Spaghetti Carbonara
I love celebrating the summer season with easy summer pasta dishes, even while watching my diet. I can’t believe I finally found a guilt-free twist on carbonara using almond milk. This low-calorie spaghetti carbonara is packed with nutritious smoky marinated mushrooms, making it a healthy and satisfying choice at just 192 calories.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Spaghetti Carbonara
One-Pan Vegetarian Eggplant Lasagna
Easy summer pasta dishes with eggplants are unbeatable. I adore anything with eggplant. This fresh pasta salad is perfect for those days when I crave my favorite veggie but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Cooking couldn’t be more straightforward with this lasagna recipe that requires only one skillet and stovetop preparation.
Get the Recipe: One-Pan Vegetarian Eggplant Lasagna
Egyptian Macarona Bechamel Recipe
The other day, I decided to switch things up from my usual cherry tomato pasta and gave this dish a try. It’s definitely one of the most delicious baked pasta dinners I’ve ever tasted! The meat and creamy béchamel sauce really elevated this meal. Exploring Egyptian cuisine has never been more satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Egyptian Macarona Bechamel Recipe
Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
These protein-rich, easy summer pasta dishes are a must-try for all pasta lovers. I put my leftover grilled chicken from Sunday dinner to good use with this recipe. By combining it with bright veggies and homemade pesto, a fresh pasta salad came to life.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad
This has to be one of the most convenient, easy summer pasta dishes on this list. I’m more of a tuna sandwich person, so trying it with elbow macaroni was a refreshing change. I opted for a low-fat mayo for added healthiness.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad
Pasta With Beet Sauce
A pasta dish with pink sauce? I didn’t even know that this visually appealing pasta existed! The beet sauce gives this dish earthy sweetness, while the cream cheese adds a delightful richness. The walnuts also incorporate a satisfying crunch, making this pasta even more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Pasta With Beet Sauce
Broccoli Brie Pasta (A One-Pot Pasta Recipe)
I love using broccoli in all sorts of dishes, and I’m always up for trying something new with it. This pasta recipe combines broccoli with penne pasta, toasted pecans, and creamy brie cheese. The result is a delicious meal that works perfectly for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Brie Pasta (A One-Pot Pasta Recipe)
Creamy Smoked Beef Pasta Salad
Discover the art of effortless cooking with these easy summer pasta dishes. This smoked beef pasta salad is bound to be a new family favorite, with the savory goodness of smoked beef and a creamy four-ingredient salad dressing. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make, ready to impress your family and guests in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Smoked Beef Pasta Salad
Calamarata (Calamari and Tomato Sauce Pasta)
I enjoy seafood in easy summer pasta dishes! This Neapolitan pasta recipe presents a nice change from the usual tuna, salmon, and chicken. It adds squid for a protein boost, with calamarata pasta, white wine, and cherry tomatoes. It offers an invigorating twist on traditional pasta meals.
Get the Recipe: Calamarata (Calamari and Tomato Sauce Pasta)
Mango And Prawn Salad
More easy summer pasta dishes that use seafood? This recipe highlights succulent prawns, blending their flavors with zesty lemon juice, creamy feta cheese, and the natural sweetness of mango and avocado. It’s a satisfying pasta salad that can even take the spotlight as a main course.
Get the Recipe: Mango And Prawn Salad
Viral TikTok Pasta Chips But Better (Oven-Baked Recipe)
Easy summer pasta dishes are great for satisfying dinners or quick snacks. This baked pasta dish, with rigatoni pasta, spices, and a few basic ingredients, has transformed my weekend movie nights. I bake it, aim for crispiness, and season with salt to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Viral TikTok Pasta Chips But Better (Oven-Baked Recipe)
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti with meatballs is a classic pasta recipe with classic ingredients. But, of course, there’s always room for new twists. We love using the Instant Pot to cook various meals at home, and recently we decided to give spaghetti a try. The outcome? A bright pasta dish that instantly became a hit with the kids!
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
FAQ About Easy Summer Pasta Dishes
What are the best things to season pasta with?
Season your pasta with dried basil leaves, grated parmesan cheese and pepper flakes for an extra burst of savory goodness.
What are the most popular pasta dishes?
The most popular pasta dishes are those that feature rich tomato sauces, creamy variations with different cheeses, and flavorful options with pesto.
You can try dishes like vegan pasta puttanesca featuring a rich tomato sauce, one pot French onion pasta with a touch of irresistible cheese, and salmon pesto pasta boasting the delectable flavors of pesto.
What doesn’t go with pasta?
This is just a matter of personal taste, so it’s best to experiment and discover the flavor combinations you like best. However, avoid pairing pasta with overly sweet ingredients and strong spices, as they can overpower the dish.
What can I add to plain pasta?
You can add a wide range of ingredients to plain pasta, including fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.
If you want, you can even mix fresh fruits and vegetables in one pasta dish. This mango and prawn salad is an extraordinary recipe that combines the sweetness of fruits with the savory goodness of veggies.
Conclusion
Let these easy summer pasta dishes be the highlight of your next cookout! You’ll be surprised to know that each pasta recipe can be personalized to suit your taste and the ingredients you have on hand.
These dishes I mentioned earlier are a great starting point to get acquainted with various flavors, pasta types, and delicious flavor combinations.
Here’s a little secret: I didn’t even know what orzo was last week, but now I can whip up quick and delicious pasta meals using different pasta options for myself and my family whenever they visit.
25 Summer Pasta Recipes So Effortless, You’ll Make Dinner in a Snap
This list of summer pasta recipes features flavorful ingredients like tomatoes, basil, zucchini, and lemon. They are quick, easy, and ideal for warm evenings.
Summer pasta meals are light, refreshing, and often packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Read it here: 25 Summer Pasta Recipes So Effortless, You’ll Make Dinner in a Snap
25 Nutritious Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Here are 25 nutritious pasta salad recipes that are delicious, quick, and easy to whip up. Perfect for those impromptu gatherings or when you want to add a little extra flair to your meal!
Read it here: 25 Nutritious Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
25 Crockpot Summer Meals So Tasty, You’ll Forget All About Grilling
These Crockpot summer meals are easy and delicious. From casseroles and stews to sandwiches and fajitas, you’ll find something for everyone.
Try these recipes and see how easy, tasty meals can make your summer gatherings even better!
Read it here: 25 Crockpot Summer Meals So Tasty, You’ll Forget All About Grilling
Excited to explore more recipes in the world of pasta and beyond? Here are some other fantastic recipes to try this summer or anytime you want:
Tired of meal planning stress? Save time, savor variety, and explore culinary creativity with our top 3 meal kit picks! 🍽️ Why not try Hello Fresh for diverse, exciting recipes, Blue Apron for gourmet cooking made easy, or Green Chef for eco-conscious dining?
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