Fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, olive oil, and cheese come together in this simple Italian-inspired summer pasta that celebrates the flavors of garden-fresh produce. This style of pasta became especially popular as home cooks looked for light, no-fuss meals that highlighted ripe seasonal tomatoes without relying on long-cooked sauces. Allowing the tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil to stand at room temperature helps create a naturally flavorful dressing that coats the hot pasta beautifully. Finished with Parmesan and shredded Swiss cheese, the warm pasta gently melts the cheese while preserving the bright taste of the fresh ingredients. It's an easy, colorful dish that's equally at home as a family dinner, potluck contribution, or picnic meal during the summer months.
Ingredients
- 4 tomatoes (medium, peeled, seeded, and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup fresh basil (chopped , or ¼ cup dried parsley plus 2 tbsp dried basil,)
- 1 tbsp fresh mint (chopped, optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 lb pasta
- ¼ cup pasta cooking liquid
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated )
- ½ cup Swiss cheese (finely diced or shredded )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
- Combine the chopped tomatoes, garlic, basil, mint, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and olive oil in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions.
- Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking liquid before draining.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Return the drained pasta to the warm pot.
- Stir in the Parmesan and Swiss cheese until they begin to melt.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
- Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the pasta.
- Fold in the tomato mixture until evenly combined.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Use vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Fresh basil is highly recommended during summer.
- Add fresh mozzarella for an even creamier texture.
- Stir in grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Whole wheat pasta works well for additional fiber.
- Add toasted pine nuts for crunch.
- Finish with extra Parmesan before serving.
- A splash of balsamic glaze adds sweetness.
- Chill leftovers for a delicious pasta salad.
- Garnish with additional basil leaves before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 170mgIron: 2mg