Summer Pesto Pasta

Name: Summer Pesto Pasta
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 oz Brown Rice Spaghetti (or any gluten-free noodle); 2 tbsps Avocado Oil; 1 Yellow Onion (diced); 1 Zucchini (small, sliced); 1 Red Bell Pepper (small, diced); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup Pesto; 1/4 cup Basil Leaves; Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

Dairy-free • Gluten-free

This Summer Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, veggie-packed dish that celebrates fresh flavors and seasonal ingredients. Tossed with a bright and herby pesto, sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, this pasta is a perfectly balanced meal for warm-weather dining.

Why You’ll Love This Summer Pesto Pasta

✔ Light Yet Satisfying – Brown rice spaghetti keeps it gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
✔ Bursting with Fresh Flavors – Basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers bring this dish to life.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Versatile – Enjoy warm or chilled as a pasta salad for meal prep or summer gatherings.

This dish is simple, wholesome, and packed with the best flavors of summer.

Optional Additions & Substitutions

✔ Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
✔ Make it Nut-Free: Swap traditional pesto for a pumpkin seed or hemp seed pesto.
✔ Use Different Veggies: Try asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.
✔ Chilled Pasta Salad Option: Let the pasta cool and serve as a cold pesto pasta salad.

Why This Pasta is Good for You

Brown Rice Pasta – A great gluten-free option that provides fiber and energy.
Zucchini & Bell Peppers – Packed with vitamins A & C for immune support and skin health.
Pesto (Basil & Olive Oil) – Contains healthy fats and antioxidants to fight inflammation.
Cherry Tomatoes – A great source of lycopene, which supports heart health.

How to Store & Meal Prep

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra pesto if needed.
Enjoy Cold: This pasta also makes a delicious cold salad, perfect for meal prep.

A Fresh & Flavorful Summer Pasta

This Summer Pesto Pasta is a light yet satisfying meal, packed with fresh vegetables, vibrant basil pesto, and warm-weather flavors. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s an easy, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

So grab your ingredients, make a batch, and enjoy a simple, delicious way to celebrate summer!

Nutritional Disclaimer

Nutrition information is an estimate generated from a nutrition calculator. There may be errors here or variations based on ingredients you use.

I’m Shelley Loving, a home cook who healed through food. Now I share simple, delicious recipes and kitchen tips to help you cook with more confidence.

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