May To September Pasta
A fresh and flavorful summer pasta featuring ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and garlic, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick, vibrant meal. Suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta, then drain and rinse with hot water.
- Cut the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into bite-size pieces.
- Chop the basil leaves.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a measuring cup, mix olive oil and minced garlic.
- Pour the olive oil and garlic mixture over the pasta and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve hot or cold as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative. Fresh mozzarella can be substituted with feta for a tangy flavor. To enhance the dish, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of Italian seasoning. If you have leftover pesto, it can be a great addition as well, giving a fresh twist to this summer pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. For a delightful dessert, consider serving with a slice of Strawberry Tiramisu Torte.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold as a refreshing pasta salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of May To September Pasta contains roughly 236 calories, with 8g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (167% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but fresh tomatoes provide a brighter flavor and better texture. If using canned, opt for whole or diced tomatoes in juice, and drain them slightly before adding to the pasta.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Ensure that your pasta is made without eggs.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
Basil is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the overall flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).