If there’s one thing Italians do best, it’s embracing the simple pleasures of the season—and in summer, that means pastas bursting with sun-ripened flavors that are meant to be savored slowly. This collection of veggie-forward recipes captures the carefree spirit of an Italian estate: juicy burst tomatoes, tender zucchini, creamy lemon-scented ricotta, and market-fresh roasted vegetables that take center stage.
They’re unfussy and come together with just a few ingredients—perfect for long lunches or spontaneous dinners at golden hour. Light and satisfying, these are the pastas you’ll have on repeat all summer long.
Feature image by Suruchi Avasthi.
10 Light Pasta Recipes That Feel Like Summer
If you thought one-pots were for fall/winter then think again. This simple one-pot pasta recipe is perfect for summer because you literally throw everything in, then set it and forget it. You don’t need to sweat it out over the stove to make something delicious.
Summer Spaghetti with Tomatoes, Burrata, & Basil
Nothing says summer quite like burrata. We’re so obsessed, we did a round-up of our favorite 20 burrata recipes. This recipe has all of those ingredients you know and love from Italy—fresh burrata, sun-kissed tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Toss it all together with your favorite pasta, and it’s amore!
Nothing could be quicker than this pasta salad that is basically all of our favorite flavors on a plate. Don’t stress if you’re out of some of the ingredients listed. The beauty of this recipe is you can make it with whatever you have in the fridge. The key is the lemon-tahini dressing!
After several trips to Italy, Camille has pretty much decided that it’s her favorite place on earth—and we’d have to concur! And even though she has eaten her way through the scenic continent, freely enjoying pasta, fresh mozzarella, gelato, and wine—she came home feeling just as light as when she left Austin. So, this garlic shrimp spaghetti is an homage to those many light pasta dishes.
One-Pot Pasta Primavera with Summer Veggies & Ricotta
The best thing about this one-pot pasta primavera is the simplicity of the flavors and the process. While it does call for fresh, Camille says frozen veggies are perfect for cooking right along with the pasta. So, throw in whatever you have in the fridge and whip up a slice of heaven at home with this delicious pasta recipe.
Summer Pasta Salad
This is summer pasta at its best—light, fresh, and full of flavor. Charred veggies bring a smoky sweetness, swirled with al dente noodles in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to digest. It’s the kind of pasta salad you’ll crave on hot days, with plenty of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full.
Lemony Pasta Carbonara with Peas & Zucchini
This isn’t your classic carbonara—in the best way. Lightened up with fresh peas and zucchini instead of pancetta, it’s a creamy, veggie-packed twist that feels just right for warm nights.
Burst Tomato Pasta
With its simple ingredients and timeless flavors, this pasta is summer simplicity at its finest. Juicy tomatoes, garlic, and basil come together in a dish that’s light, bright, and endlessly satisfying—proof that you don’t need much to make something delicious.
Spaghetti alla Nerano
If Stanley Tucci taught us anything, it’s that simple, high-quality ingredients are the key to unforgettable meals—and this pasta is proof. Light, effortless, and full of flavor, it’s everything we love about summer cooking.
This is the kind of pasta that feels both comforting and fresh—creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and tender noodles come together with kale, artichokes, and plenty of aromatics. It’s rich yet bright, with just enough greens to feel virtuous. A simple, satisfying dish you’ll want on repeat all season.
This post was last updated on July 21, 2025 to include new insights.