This vibrant pasta dish, perfect for summer days, combines the warmth of cooked courgettes with the freshness of a tomato salsa. Drawing inspiration from classic Italian cuisine, the recipe treats pasta similarly to a salad, gently integrating it with an array of vegetables, herbs, and olive oil.
The dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: tender courgettes and spring onions are softened in olive oil, while a room-temperature salsa made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a refreshing contrast. Allowing the tomatoes to sit for at least 20 minutes enhances their flavor as their natural juices are released.
Incorporating a variety of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes alongside firmer types, adds both sweetness and complexity. Opting for smaller courgettes is recommended for their subtle flavor, while fresh basil completes the dish with its aromatic touch. The recipe is versatile enough to pair with both long and short pasta shapes, like linguine, spaghetti, farfalle, or radiatori, which soak up the rich dressing beautifully. By adding a little starchy pasta water to the vegetables while cooking, a silky sauce is formed that clings perfectly to the pasta.
To prepare this dish, start by boiling a large pan of salted water and cook 450g of your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate bowl, mix 400g of diced ripe tomatoes with three tablespoons of olive oil, a handful of torn basil leaves, a pinch of dried oregano, half a finely chopped garlic clove, and salt to taste, allowing the mixture to rest. Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a large frying pan to gently soften 3–4 finely sliced spring onions. Add two large courgettes, grated or sliced into thin strips, and cook for about five minutes, incorporating a little pasta water to prevent browning.
Once the pasta is done, transfer it directly to the pan with the courgettes, tossing well to ensure it’s evenly coated in the mixture. Finally, add the tomato salsa and combine thoroughly. Garnish with additional basil and serve immediately. This light and flavorful pasta can be enjoyed on its own or paired with soft cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella, offering a true taste of summer.