As the summer days heat up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing and flavorful pasta dish to satisfy your cravings. Enter garden rotini, a delicious and versatile recipe that combines the simplicity of penne pasta with the vibrant flavors of the garden. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering garden rotini recipes that are perfect for warm-weather gatherings and cozy nights in. From classic combinations like garlic butter and fresh herbs to more adventurous pairings like spicy Cajun shrimp and roasted red peppers, there’s something for everyone in our collection of summer-inspired recipes.
Garlic Butter Garden Rotini with Fresh Herbs
Brighten up your springtime meals with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, packed with the aroma of garlic butter and the freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine cooked pasta, parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese in the skillet. Toss until well coated with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pesto Garden Rotini
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz garden rotini pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine diced avocado and pesto sauce. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes and chopped parsley. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes release their juices.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato mixture.
5. Pour in the avocado pesto sauce and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Garden Rotini
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthiness of fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a delightful rotini shape.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss to combine.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Basil Garden Rotini with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish, perfect for a springtime dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe combines the freshness of lemon and basil with the smokiness of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a deliciously creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, and basil. Cook over medium heat for 1 minute.
4. Add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and grilled chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Garden Rotini with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Vegetable Garden Rotini with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. garden rotini pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the eggplant, zucchini, and red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook the garden rotini pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic glaze over low heat until warm.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with roasted vegetables and warm balsamic glaze.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Garden Rotini
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty cajun seasoning blend and fresh garden vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. Add bell peppers, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and parsley in a large bowl.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Garden Rotini Salad
This vibrant salad brings together the flavors of Italy with the freshness of a garden, featuring homemade pesto, cherry tomatoes, and rotini pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh mozzarella balls, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with sliced mozzarella balls, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Garden Rotini
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory dish featuring tender mushrooms, fresh thyme, and a velvety cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms; whisk in heavy cream and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Garden Rotini with Feta and Olives
This vibrant pasta dish is a perfect representation of the Mediterranean diet, with its colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in olives and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lime and Cilantro Garden Rotini
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the brightness of lime with the earthiness of cilantro for a truly garden-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped cilantro, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the lime-cilantro dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Garden Rotini with Fresh Mozzarella
This refreshing pasta dish combines the sweetness of fresh mozzarella, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the creaminess of basil, all wrapped up in a delightful rotini shape.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and chopped basil leaves.
3. Add the cooked rotini pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, drizzled with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Garden Rotini with Broccoli
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the simplicity of rotini noodles with the richness of garlic parmesan sauce, perfectly balanced by steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz garden rotini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh broccoli florets for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked rotini to the skillet and toss with the garlic parmesan sauce.
6. Serve hot topped with grated parmesan cheese and steamed broccoli florets.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Pea Garden Rotini in Alfredo Sauce
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of smoky bacon, sweet peas, and rich Alfredo sauce with the simplicity of rotini noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) rotini noodles
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup (120g) frozen peas
– 1 cup (240ml) Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rotini noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cooked bacon, peas, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until heated through.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine the pasta and sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Garden Rotini
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a fresh and flavorful package. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine roasted red peppers, goat cheese, parsley, garlic powder (if using), and cooked pasta in a large bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Peanut Garden Rotini with Crushed Peanuts
Thai Peanut Garden Rotini with Crushed Peanuts Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of spicy and sweet in this Thai-inspired pasta dish, featuring garden rotini noodles smothered in a creamy peanut sauce and topped with crushed peanuts for added crunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. garden rotini pasta
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp. Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, curry paste, ginger, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the peanut sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of the pasta and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Ricotta and Zucchini Garden Rotini
This light and refreshing summer pasta dish combines the creamy richness of herbed ricotta with the sweetness of sautéed zucchini, all wrapped up in a flavorful rotini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parsley, and basil. Mix well to combine.
4. Toss cooked rotini with the herbed ricotta mixture and sautéed zucchini.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Garden Rotini
This recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotles with the freshness of garden vegetables and creamy pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed garden vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 cup rotini pasta
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat chicken breast with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce over medium-high heat until cooked through.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Add mixed garden vegetables to the skillet; cook until tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summer Squash and Basil Garden Rotini
A refreshing summer pasta dish that celebrates the flavors of fresh squash, basil, and Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 large yellow summer squash, spiralized
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spiralized squash to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still slightly firm.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and squash mixture in a large bowl. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of summer with these 18 delicious garden rotini recipes! From classic combinations like garlic butter and fresh herbs to creative twists featuring roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and spicy shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty and satisfying main course, these flavorful dishes are sure to delight. So go ahead and get cooking with these mouthwatering garden rotini recipes perfect for the warm weather season.
