21 Summer Pasta Recipes

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, refreshing, and flavorful meals, and pasta dishes are no exception. Whether you’re looking for a quick salad, a hearty meal, or something vegan, these 21 summer pasta recipes offer a variety of options to suit every taste and preference. From vibrant salads to creamy pastas, these dishes are designed to keep you cool and satisfied during the warmest months.

In this article, we’ve curated 21 delicious summer pasta recipes that are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with fresh flavors, ensuring that you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into these amazing recipes and start cooking!

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

The Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is a classic summer dish that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the tanginess of olives and the freshness of cucumbers. Orzo, a small grain-like pasta, adds a unique texture to this salad. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.

Ingredients

– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle the feta cheese on top (if using) and serve immediately.

Lemon Parsley Pasta

The Lemon Parsley Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the brightness of lemon zest and the freshness of parsley. This recipe is quick to prepare and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Looking for something light to snack on before or after your meal? Check out our Best Healthy Snacks to keep you energized all summer long.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pasta Fredda – Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Pasta Fredda, or Cold Italian Pasta Salad, is a hearty and refreshing dish that combines pasta with a variety of vegetables and a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, ham, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

The Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a seafood lover’s dream. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a creamy and tangy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Watercress Pesto Pasta with Mafaldine Noodles

This Watercress Pesto Pasta with Mafaldine Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the peppery taste of watercress. Mafaldine noodles, with their unique ribbon-like shape, hold onto the pesto sauce perfectly.

Ingredients

– 12 oz mafaldine noodles
– 2 cups fresh watercress
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, peeled
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the mafaldine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the watercress, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined.
3. With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles and the watercress pesto. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional watercress if desired.

Rasta Pasta Recipe | Jerk Chicken Pasta

The Rasta Pasta Recipe, also known as Jerk Chicken Pasta, is a spicy and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and sprinkle with jerk seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Scallop Shrimp Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

This Scallop Shrimp Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes is a seafood lover’s delight. The combination of succulent scallops and shrimp with burst cherry tomatoes creates a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to burst. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze the bottom.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the cherry tomatoes and sauce. Return the shrimp and scallops to the skillet and toss everything together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

The Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a unique and refreshing dish that combines the tangy flavor of dill pickles with a creamy dressing. This recipe is perfect for those who love pickles and are looking for a twist on traditional pasta salads.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chopped dill pickles.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, dried dill weed, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and pickle mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.

Mushroom Sweet Corn Pasta

The Mushroom Sweet Corn Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the sweetness of corn. This recipe is perfect for a comforting summer meal.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the mushroom and corn mixture. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

The Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a classic dish that combines the flavors of a Caesar salad with pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, romaine lettuce, and croutons.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and serve immediately.

Easy Vegan Zucchini Pasta

The Easy Vegan Zucchini Pasta is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a quick summer meal. This recipe is vegan-friendly and can be made in just a few minutes.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nutritional yeast (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the zucchinis to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, zucchinis, basil, mint, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Serve immediately.

Roasted Pepper Pasta Salad

The Roasted Pepper Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 red bell peppers, roasted and diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, roasted and diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted red and yellow peppers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and pepper mixture, tossing to combine.
5. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top and serve immediately.

Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

The Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is a rich and satisfying dish that combines pasta with a variety of vegetables and a creamy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a hearty summer meal.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, ham, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Creamy Chicken Pasta

The Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy summer evening.

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Chicken Penne Pasta

The Chicken Penne Pasta is a classic dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying summer meal.

Ingredients

– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired.

Red Lentil Pasta Salad

The Red Lentil Pasta Salad is a healthy and flavorful dish that combines the nutty taste of red lentils with a variety of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a nutritious summer meal.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the red lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the lentils are tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and lentil mixture, tossing to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Sweet Corn Pasta Salad

The Sweet Corn Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of corn with a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing to combine.
5. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top and serve immediately.

Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad

The Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines bow tie pasta with a variety of vegetables and a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering.

Ingredients

– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, ham, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

Italian Sub Pasta Salad

The Italian Sub Pasta Salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the ingredients of an Italian sub sandwich with pasta. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying summer meal.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup salami, sliced
– 1 cup ham, diced
– 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
– 1 cup provolone cheese, cubed
– 1 cup lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, salami, ham, pepperoni, provolone cheese, lettuce, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and salad mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

Caprese Pasta Salad

The Caprese Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the classic ingredients of a Caprese salad with pasta. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal.

Ingredients

– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and salad mixture, tossing to combine.
5. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the top and serve immediately.