25+ Flavorful Summer Pasta Sauce Recipes You’ll Love

Summer is the season for light, fresh, and vibrant flavors, and what better way to showcase them than through delicious pasta sauces?

Whether you’re enjoying a meal with friends, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply indulging in some well-deserved relaxation, a perfectly crafted pasta dish can elevate any summer gathering.

From creamy sauces to tangy, herb-infused options, the possibilities are endless when it comes to summer pasta sauces.

In this article, we’ve compiled over 25+ summer pasta sauce recipes that bring out the best of seasonal ingredients, offering a variety of flavors that are perfect for warm weather.

Whether you love the richness of a creamy sauce, the brightness of fresh tomatoes, or the refreshing zing of citrus, there’s something here for everyone.

25+ Flavorful Summer Pasta Sauce Recipes You’ll Love

As the days grow warmer and the sun shines brighter, your pasta dishes should reflect the light and refreshing nature of summer.

With over 25+ pasta sauce recipes to choose from, you now have the tools to turn any simple pasta into a gourmet experience.

Whether you’re craving the freshness of lemon and basil or the comforting richness of roasted red peppers, these sauces are perfect for experimenting with new flavors and creating memorable meals with minimal effort.

So, the next time you’re looking to make a delicious summer meal, look no further than these versatile pasta sauce recipes.

Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce

Nothing captures the essence of summer quite like a vibrant, fresh tomato basil sauce.

This simple yet flavor-packed sauce highlights the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the peppery brightness of basil, making it perfect for light dinners and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 6 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a chunky sauce.
4. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar if using.
5. Toss with hot pasta immediately or let cool slightly and use it as a chilled sauce.

This sauce brings a beautiful freshness to any pasta dish.

It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and elegant enough for a weekend get-together. You’ll taste the sunshine in every bite!

Zesty Lemon Parmesan Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a light and luxurious sauce that still feels summery, this lemon parmesan cream sauce is a dream come true.

With bright citrus notes balanced by rich parmesan and a hint of garlic, it coats pasta in a velvety embrace without feeling heavy.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until golden, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This sauce is like a breath of fresh air, combining creamy comfort with a zippy brightness.

Perfect for when you want something indulgent that still feels light enough for warm evenings.

Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Sauce

For a colorful and slightly smoky option, this roasted red pepper and ricotta sauce is a fantastic way to celebrate summer’s bounty.

It’s creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, making every forkful a festival of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade), chopped
• ¾ cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat just until heated through.
5. Toss with freshly cooked pasta and garnish with herbs.

This sauce is a showstopper, perfect for those who love bold yet creamy flavors.

It’s a fantastic way to add a burst of color and a touch of decadence to your summer pasta nights.

Garlic and Herb Olive Oil Pasta Sauce

This garlic and herb olive oil sauce is a simple and flavorful option that relies on the aromatic qualities of fresh herbs, garlic, and high-quality olive oil.

It’s a no-fuss sauce that perfectly complements any type of pasta, giving it a fresh, savory flavor that’s ideal for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic slices and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden and fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
3. Stir in the fresh thyme and oregano, and cook for another minute.
4. Add salt, pepper, and lemon zest, stirring to combine.
5. Toss your hot, drained pasta directly into the sauce and coat well.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

This sauce is incredibly light and full of vibrant herb flavors, making it an excellent choice for summer meals.

It’s perfect for when you want something quick yet refreshing, and the lemon zest really brings out the freshness.

Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce

For a creamy, dairy-free pasta sauce that’s perfect for summer, this avocado cilantro lime sauce is a deliciously rich and tangy choice.

The smoothness of the avocado paired with the citrusy kick of lime and the fresh taste of cilantro makes this a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water (as needed to thin the sauce)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

This sauce is a fantastic option for warm weather, as it’s refreshing, creamy, and super satisfying without being heavy.

It’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats from avocados and enjoy a unique twist on traditional pasta sauces.

Summer Squash and Zucchini Pesto Sauce

A twist on traditional pesto, this summer squash and zucchini pesto is a perfect way to use up the bounty of summer vegetables.

It’s light, refreshing, and herbaceous, with a slight sweetness from the squash and a deep richness from the nuts.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 medium summer squash, chopped
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated parmesan (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Steam the zucchini and squash pieces for 3-4 minutes until soft but still bright in color.
2. Place the steamed vegetables, basil, and pine nuts in a blender or food processor.
3. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper, and blend until smooth.
4. Toss the pesto with cooked pasta, and add grated parmesan if desired.

This pesto sauce is an innovative, veggie-packed alternative that still delivers the classic rich flavors you love.

It’s not only a delicious way to sneak in extra vegetables but also a unique and fresh way to enjoy a summer pasta dish.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cream Sauce

This sun-dried tomato and basil cream sauce brings together the savory richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the fresh, aromatic flavors of basil and the indulgence of cream.

It’s a perfect blend of bold and creamy, making it a comforting sauce ideal for summer evenings.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (from the sun-dried tomatoes)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the fresh thyme and basil, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the sauce with cooked pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan if desired.

This sauce is rich and flavorful, bringing a taste of Mediterranean sunshine to your pasta.

It’s creamy and savory, with just the right touch of tanginess from the sun-dried tomatoes—perfect for a warm, indulgent dinner.

Cucumber and Mint Yogurt Sauce

For something light, refreshing, and cooling, a cucumber and mint yogurt sauce is an amazing summer choice.

It’s vibrant, tangy, and creamy, making it ideal for pasta dishes you want to enjoy on a hot day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, grated
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out any excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
2. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped mint, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Stir until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Garnish with more fresh mint leaves before serving.

This cooling yogurt sauce is perfect for a summer pasta dish, offering a refreshing balance to warm pasta.

It’s incredibly light but still packs a punch with the fresh mint and tangy yogurt, making it the ultimate summer comfort food without the heaviness.

Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Sauce

Grilled eggplant brings a smoky, savory depth to this tomato sauce, making it a perfect summer choice.

The charred flavor of the eggplant pairs beautifully with ripe tomatoes, creating a sauce that’s both earthy and fresh.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes
• 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Toss the eggplant cubes with a little olive oil and grill them for 6-8 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.
2. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and oregano, and cook for another 5 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down.
4. Add the grilled eggplant to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss with pasta.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This grilled eggplant and tomato sauce offers a smoky, rich flavor that’s perfect for outdoor summer meals.

It’s hearty and satisfying without being overly heavy, with the eggplant providing a savory richness and the tomatoes giving the sauce its bright and juicy base.

Sweet Corn and Jalapeño Cream Sauce

This sweet corn and jalapeño cream sauce brings a fun, zesty twist to your summer pasta.

The sweetness of the corn balances perfectly with the heat from the jalapeños, creating a creamy sauce that’s both comforting and spicy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the corn and jalapeño to the skillet, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the corn is slightly golden.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the sauce with freshly cooked pasta, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve.

This creamy corn and jalapeño sauce is a fun, spicy addition to your pasta repertoire.

It has just the right amount of heat to kick things up a notch while still feeling summery and fresh with the sweetness of corn.

Charred Tomato and Feta Sauce

Charred tomatoes combined with creamy feta cheese create a tangy, smoky sauce that’s absolutely perfect for summer.

This sauce has a unique depth of flavor thanks to the charred tomatoes and salty feta, making it a great choice for a hearty but refreshing dish.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup olive oil, divided
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Drizzle the tomato halves with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and grill them, cut side down, for 5-7 minutes until charred.
2. In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute.
3. Add the grilled tomatoes (scooped out from the skins) to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they break down into a chunky sauce.
4. Stir in the crumbled feta and oregano, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the feta to melt slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and garnish with fresh basil.

The smoky, charred flavor of the tomatoes combined with the creamy feta makes this sauce rich yet refreshing.

It’s an elegant summer sauce that pairs wonderfully with a variety of pasta types and is sure to be a crowd favorite.

Pea and Mint Pesto Sauce

This pea and mint pesto offers a unique twist on the traditional pesto.

The sweetness of peas combined with the freshness of mint creates a light, flavorful sauce that feels both light and vibrant, perfect for summer meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the peas, mint, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the pesto is smooth and creamy.
4. Toss the pesto with hot pasta and serve immediately.

This pea and mint pesto is a light, refreshing take on the classic, with a unique twist that’s perfect for the summer months.

The mint adds a cooling factor that’s perfect for hot days, while the peas lend a creamy, fresh sweetness.

Lemon and Ricotta Sauce

A light and tangy lemon ricotta sauce is the perfect way to bring out the freshness of summer.

This creamy sauce is both refreshing and rich, with just the right amount of zest from the lemon. It pairs beautifully with pasta, especially for a sunny afternoon meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss with hot, drained pasta and mix until the pasta is well coated.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This sauce is light, creamy, and full of refreshing lemon flavor.

It’s perfect for those who want a pasta sauce that’s indulgent yet not too heavy—ideal for hot summer days when you want something light but satisfying.

Fresh Peach and Thyme Sauce

Peach and thyme might not be a typical pasta pairing, but their combination creates a sweet and savory sauce that’s absolutely summer in a bowl.

The sweetness of fresh peaches blends perfectly with the herbal notes of thyme for a surprising and delicious twist on traditional pasta sauces.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• ¼ cup white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped peaches and fresh thyme to the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the peaches start to soften.
3. If using, pour in the white wine and cook for an additional 3 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.

This peach and thyme sauce is a sweet and savory surprise that perfectly complements the lightness of summer.

The peaches provide a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory garlic and thyme, making it a refreshing option for your pasta dish.

Pesto alla Trapanese

This Sicilian pesto combines fresh tomatoes, almonds, and basil to create a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet sauce.

Unlike the traditional basil pesto, Pesto alla Trapanese has a unique depth of flavor that makes it a great choice for summer pasta.

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/3 cup almonds (blanched or slivered)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated ricotta salata or Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, almonds, basil, and garlic. Pulse until you achieve a coarse paste.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth.
3. Add the red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper, and blend again to combine.
4. Toss the pesto with freshly cooked pasta, and if desired, sprinkle with grated ricotta salata or Parmesan.

This Pesto alla Trapanese brings a wonderful nutty flavor to the table with its almond base, complemented by the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the freshness of basil.

It’s perfect for a summer dinner, offering a burst of flavors that are both bold and refreshing.

Spicy Mango and Cilantro Sauce

A unique, tropical twist on pasta sauces, the spicy mango and cilantro sauce combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with a spicy kick and the freshness of cilantro.

This vibrant sauce is perfect for hot summer days when you want something bold and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 small red chili, seeds removed and finely chopped (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the mango, chili, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to adjust the consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and serve immediately.

This spicy mango sauce is sweet, spicy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect sauce for those who crave a refreshing kick in their summer pasta dish.

The cilantro adds a herby note that complements the tropical fruit beautifully.

Carrot and Ginger Coconut Sauce

This carrot and ginger coconut sauce is creamy, aromatic, and full of warm spices.

The earthy sweetness of carrots combined with the warmth of ginger and the richness of coconut milk creates a sauce that feels indulgent yet light enough for a summer meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to blend the sauce until smooth. Add water or more coconut milk to adjust the consistency if needed.
5. Stir in honey (if using) and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This carrot and ginger coconut sauce is wonderfully creamy with just the right amount of sweetness from the carrots and coconut milk.

The ginger gives it a warm, aromatic kick, making it a perfect choice for a unique and flavorful summer pasta dish.

Roasted Garlic and Butternut Squash Sauce

For a rich and creamy yet light pasta sauce, the roasted garlic and butternut squash sauce is a fantastic choice.

The sweet, earthy squash pairs beautifully with the roasted garlic, creating a smooth and comforting sauce that’s perfect for cooler summer nights.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 head of garlic, roasted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup vegetable broth or pasta water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage or thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. While the squash is roasting, cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven alongside the squash for 20-25 minutes until soft and caramelized.
3. Once roasted, scoop out the garlic cloves and place them in a blender with the roasted squash. Add the vegetable broth and blend until smooth.
4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and pour the blended sauce in. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh sage or thyme leaves.

The combination of roasted garlic and butternut squash creates a comforting, velvety sauce that’s perfect for those seeking a more substantial but still summery option.

It’s naturally sweet, savory, and wonderfully creamy, making it a great choice for a cozy yet fresh pasta dish.

Cherry Tomato and Balsamic Glaze Sauce

This sauce takes advantage of sweet, ripe summer cherry tomatoes and combines them with the tangy richness of balsamic glaze.

The result is a fresh, flavorful sauce with just the right balance of acidity and sweetness. Perfect for light pasta dishes on a warm day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
3. Stir in the balsamic glaze, allowing it to cook for another 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss with hot pasta, garnish with fresh basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.

The sweet acidity of balsamic glaze brings out the juiciness of the tomatoes, making this a light but flavorful sauce.

It’s simple to make, vibrant, and perfect for summer meals when tomatoes are in season.

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

This creamy roasted red pepper sauce has a smoky, sweet flavor that will elevate any pasta dish.

Roasting the peppers enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce, making it a great choice for a richer yet still summery pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. To roast the peppers, place them directly over a gas flame or under a broiler until the skins are charred and blackened. Place them in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the roasted red peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a blender, add the heavy cream, and blend until smooth.
5. Return the sauce to the skillet and heat it gently over low heat. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The creamy roasted red pepper sauce is rich and smoky, making it perfect for a pasta dish that feels indulgent yet bright enough for summer.

It’s a great option when you want a comforting sauce with a little extra depth of flavor.

Lemon and Basil Pesto with Walnuts

This variation of pesto brings a bright, zesty twist with the addition of lemon.

The lemony freshness paired with the aromatic basil and the crunchy texture of walnuts makes for a refreshing summer pesto that’s perfect for a variety of pasta types.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup walnuts (or pine nuts)
• 2 cloves garlic
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
2. While the processor is running, drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese, and pulse again until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss with hot pasta, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to help the pesto coat the pasta evenly.

This lemon and basil pesto with walnuts is a zesty, nutty, and fresh take on a classic pesto.

The lemon adds a refreshing brightness that complements the richness of the walnuts, making it an ideal sauce for a light, flavorful summer pasta dish.

Zucchini and Lemon Ricotta Sauce

This light and refreshing zucchini and lemon ricotta sauce is perfect for summer pasta dishes.

The mild flavor of zucchini pairs wonderfully with the creamy, tangy ricotta and the bright freshness of lemon, making this sauce ideal for warm weather meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh mint or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the grated zucchini to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender and softened.
3. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh mint or basil.

This zucchini and lemon ricotta sauce is creamy, fresh, and light—perfect for those looking for a delicious, non-heavy pasta sauce.

The zucchini adds a mild, refreshing touch, while the ricotta and lemon make the dish feel indulgent yet light.

Avocado and Cilantro Lime Sauce

A creamy, rich avocado sauce with the bright, zesty notes of lime and cilantro, this is an excellent choice for a summer pasta dish.

The avocado creates a velvety texture, while the cilantro and lime infuse it with a refreshing taste that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
3. Toss with freshly cooked pasta, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
4. Serve immediately with extra cilantro as garnish.

This avocado and cilantro lime sauce is creamy and indulgent, yet light and vibrant thanks to the citrusy notes of lime and the fresh flavor of cilantro.

It’s perfect for a summer pasta that feels indulgent but still refreshing.

Roasted Plum Tomato and Anchovy Sauce

Roasted plum tomatoes combined with the umami depth of anchovies create a savory, rich pasta sauce that’s perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired summer meal.

The sweetness of the tomatoes and the salty anchovies provide a balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with pasta.

Ingredients:

• 6 plum tomatoes, halved
• 4 anchovy fillets, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved plum tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
2. In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped anchovies. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the anchovies begin to dissolve.
3. Add the roasted tomatoes to the skillet, along with the white wine (if using), and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss with hot pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.

This roasted plum tomato and anchovy sauce is savory and rich, offering a bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

The anchovies add an umami depth that elevates the sweetness of the tomatoes, making this sauce a standout for summer pasta dishes.