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Summer Spaghetti Recipe

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Summer Spaghetti is a light and vibrant pasta dish featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s an easy warm-weather meal that highlights fresh seasonal flavors.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Additional Parmesan and basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. While the pasta cooks, combine the tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl.
  5. Let the tomato mixture rest for about 10 minutes.
  6. Add the hot drained spaghetti to the bowl.
  7. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
  8. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
  10. Garnish with additional Parmesan and basil before serving.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for extra protein.
  • Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or yellow squash for more vegetables.
  • Use fresh mozzarella pearls for a Caprese-inspired variation.
  • This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reserve pasta water to help keep the pasta from becoming dry.

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