1. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Why it works:
This dish is bright, creamy, and comes together in 15 minutes. It’s perfect for warm days when you want something light but still comforting.
What you’ll need:
300g spaghetti or fettuccine
1 cup ricotta
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil, parsley, or chives
Salt and pepper
Quick recipe:
Cook pasta until al dente. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Toss hot pasta into the bowl with a splash of pasta water. Stir until creamy. Top with chopped herbs and serve immediately.
2. Summer Caprese Pasta Salad
Why it works:
This chilled pasta salad is essentially a Caprese salad with carbs — ideal for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep.
What you’ll need:
300g short pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup bocconcini or mozzarella pearls
1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction
Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Quick recipe:
Cook pasta, then rinse under cold water to cool. Toss with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.
3. Zucchini and Mint Pasta with Pecorino
Why it works:
Zucchini is a summer superstar, and this pasta lets it shine with a cool minty twist.
What you’ll need:
300g spaghetti
2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or spiralized
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
Fresh mint leaves
Grated Pecorino or Parmesan
Quick recipe:
Sauté garlic and zucchini in olive oil until soft and slightly golden. Cook pasta and toss with the zucchini mixture and a splash of pasta water. Add chopped mint and lots of cheese before serving.
4. Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken or Tofu
Why it works:
Pesto adds bold flavour with minimal effort, and pairing it with grilled protein makes it a complete summer meal.
What you’ll need:
300g rotini or orecchiette
1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Grilled chicken breast or tofu, sliced
Optional: sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts
Quick recipe:
Cook pasta and toss with pesto. Add grilled protein and any extras like sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts. Serve warm or cold.
