As we move through the hot, hazy days of summer, we generally prefer much lighter fare than we do the rest of the year, although our appetite for pasta remains the same. If you are one of those people who equates pasta with hearty meaty sauces, then it is time to broaden your horizons, and consider some fresh, light pasta dishes this summer. Summer pasta recipes take advantage of the vast selection of fresh produce and seafood readily available to us in our markets at this time of year, and are generally quick and simple to prepare. The sauces are light, and generally very healthy, using combinations of fresh herbs, vegetables and seafood as apposed to the meat or cream based sauces we enjoy in the cooler months. 

Pasta is no longer considered just a first course or a primi piato, but can also be a light satisfying lunch, or even the main course at dinner, particularly when seafood or meat is added. Pasta has become everyone’s favorite food since it is healthy, inexpensive, quick to prepare, delicious to eat, and satisfying to the soul. Vegetables and pasta are a perfect combination for those on a vegetarian or low fat diet, and the vegetables of summer with their rich vibrant colors and flavors lend themselves perfectly to fresh, uncomplicated sauces.

The heat of summer often encourages people to cook outdoors, and what could be better than a pasta sauce made on the grill? You might consider trying Grilled Vegetable Pasta, which combines grilled tomatoes, peppers and onions with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs. Another favorite of mine is Grilled Fig and Prosciutto Pasta in which the salty flavor of prosciutto is a perfect foil for the sweet mellow figs. A trip to your local farmer’s market can inspire a myriad of different fresh vegetable sauces. 

Why not try a simple Pasta With Fried Zucchini, whose simplicity and delicate flavor makes a great first course? Another colorful, satisfying light pasta dish is Grilled Pepper Pasta. This pasta is so delicious and easy to prepare it makes a great choice for summer entertaining. Summer Spaghetti, my personal favorite, uses a room temperature, uncooked sauce that can be prepared early in the day, and left to allow it’s flavors to meld. Summer herbs can also lend themselves well to light pasta dishes perfect to satisfy on a hot summer’s night. Angel Hair Pasta with Mixed Herbs can be put together in minutes, after a quick trip to your herb garden. Lemon Pasta With Grilled Shrimp has a refreshing, unique flavor that could be a complete meal on it’s own. And another delicious summer pasta full of color is Farfalle With Arugula Pesto Sauce.

Hopefully I have inspired you to create a few of your own summer pasta recipes to share with family and friends. Just bring home whatever fresh, colorful vegetables catch your eye in your market, be it a grocery store or farm stand, and let the simplicity of your ingredients inspire you, and let your imagination soar! 

Buon Appetito!

By Deborah Mele 2010