Start Summer on the Right Foot With These 3 Pasta Recipes

Now that summer is here, it’s time to shift our plates towards more fresh and light dishes with seasonal ingredients to enjoy in the sun. But that doesn’t mean we have to give up pasta! While traditionally known as a warm and heavy comfort food, we’ve rounded up some great summery pasta recipes to recreate in your kitchen this year. These are perfect for a quick family dinner, or to share at a picnic with friends on one of the many summer holiday celebrations we enjoy. Any chef can try their hand at these easy refreshing recipes.

Sun-kissed pasta

Perfect for warm weather, this dish combines the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all brought together with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente, then set it aside. In a large pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their juices. Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing thoroughly to coat each noodle with the tomato and garlic mixture. Finish with freshly torn basil leaves, a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Make it your own by adding shrimp, other fresh herbs, or some broccolini. Simple yet delicious, this pasta is a delightful celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Green Fettuccine

A healthier and lighter twist on a cozy comfort meal, this recipe is easy and customizable to your unique tastes and the veggies you have on hand. Begin by cooking fettuccine until al dente, then set aside. In a large skillet, sauté thinly sliced zucchini, asparagus, peas, snap peas, or artichoke hearts in olive oil until just tender. Add halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice, cooking until the tomatoes soften. Add a splash of chicken stock, parmesan, and ricotta cheese to create the bright, tangy cheese sauce. Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet, and finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a handful of grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly chopped basil for a burst of flavor. Sprinkle it with bacon for an added salty dimension, and you’re set to enjoy this fresh dish.

Fruit Fiesta Pasta

Add a burst of color and freshness to your summer menu this year and use up any extra fruits you have around the house. Begin by cooking rotini pasta until al dente and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine the pasta with fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, and mandarin oranges, or add in kiwi, bananas, grapes, or any other fruit you prefer. Toss with a light and refreshing dressing made from honey, lemon juice, and poppy seeds, ensuring every bite is a delightful mix of flavors. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of summer brightness. This unique and fruity pasta salad is perfect for gatherings, offering a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any summer event. Perfect for enjoying in the hot sun, this pasta dish brings a cheerful twist to traditional pasta recipes.

Enjoy the flavors of the garden

Whether you have your own fresh fruit and veggie gardens at home, shop at local farmers markets or even get your ingredients from the grocery stores, there are so many different flavors to choose from this summer. Finding fun ways to incorporate these healthy elements into your favorite meals is one of the best parts of summer, making you both full and satisfied and feel light and healthy.

At the Albert Chicago, we utilize our rooftop garden to provide the freshest ingredients possible in all of our dishes we serve. To try out our Italian-inspired dishes that will leave you feeling inspired, check out our menu or book a reservation here.