Name: No Cook Summer Pasta Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lb ripe heirloom tomatoes (about 4–5 medium), halved across the equator; 1 clove garlic, grated; 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan (3 oz), plus extra for serving; 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp honey; 1/2 tsp crushed red-pepper flakes; 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste; 1 lb long pasta (spaghetti, linguini, or fettuccine); 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves, torn

Short description
This no-cook summer pasta sauce highlights the best of the season’s tomatoes, combining them with fresh garlic, herbs, and olive oil for a bright, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly. Perfect for warm weather, it requires no stove time aside from boiling the pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and quick to prepare
No stove or oven needed (except for boiling pasta)
Bursting with fresh, summery flavors
Easily customizable with herbs, cheeses, and spices
A light, healthy option ideal for hot days
Great for entertaining or a casual dinner
Vegan and vegetarian friendly
Make-ahead friendly
Perfect use for ripe garden tomatoes
Delicious warm, room temperature, or chilled

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe tomatoes (cherry, grape, heirloom, or a mix), chopped or halved
Fresh garlic, minced or pressed
Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: red pepper flakes or Calabrian chile paste
Optional finishing touches: balsamic vinegar, grated Parmesan or pecorino, pine nuts

Directions

Chop the tomatoes into small pieces or halve them if using cherry or grape varieties.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes with garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add red pepper flakes or chile paste if using, and stir gently to combine.
Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook your preferred pasta until al dente, reserving some of the cooking water.
Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with the tomato mixture, adding a bit of pasta water to help the sauce cling.
Serve with optional toppings such as grated cheese, pine nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes to 4 hours (depending on rest time)

Variations

Use a variety of herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme
Add heat with crushed red pepper or spicy chile paste
Incorporate creamy elements like burrata or mozzarella
Mix in protein such as grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas
Use gluten-free or vegetable-based pasta alternatives
Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for brightness
Include toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds for crunch

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days
If storing the sauce separately, let it come to room temperature before serving
Pasta can be gently tossed with warmed sauce or eaten cold as a pasta salad
Not recommended for freezing, as fresh tomatoes may lose texture

FAQs

1. Can I peel and seed the tomatoes?

Yes, peeling and seeding the tomatoes will create a smoother sauce if you prefer.

2. How long can the sauce sit before using?

Letting it rest for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, but it can sit for up to 4 hours.

3. Which pasta types are best for this sauce?

Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine work well, but short pastas like penne or fusilli also hold the sauce nicely.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

5. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s vegan as long as you don’t add cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

6. What if my tomatoes aren’t sweet?

Add a small pinch of sugar or use a higher-quality olive oil to balance the flavors.

7. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans are great additions for extra protein.

8. Can I substitute other herbs?

Yes, parsley, oregano, mint, or thyme can be used based on your preference.

9. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Toss the hot pasta immediately with the sauce and a bit of pasta water to keep it from clumping.

10. Can I eat this cold?

Yes, this dish can also be enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for a picnic or summer lunch.

Conclusion

This no cook summer pasta sauce with fresh tomatoes is a testament to the beauty of simple, seasonal ingredients. It’s quick, flavorful, and flexible, making it an ideal solution for easy summer meals. Whether served warm, room temperature, or chilled, it offers a satisfying and refreshing take on pasta that’s sure to please.