As the seasons change, our gardens come alive with a vibrant array of fruits and vegetables. And what better way to celebrate this bounty than by incorporating these fresh ingredients into delicious homemade dishes? One such star of the show is the humble garden rotini, a versatile pasta shape that can be paired with an endless variety of flavors and textures. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of springtime’s produce in all its glory. From classic combinations like pesto and cherry tomatoes to more adventurous pairings like roasted vegetables and creamy spinach, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. So let your garden-fresh inspiration grow, and get ready to cook up a storm with these 18 flavorful garden rotini recipes!
Garden Rotini with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that highlights the freshness of cherry tomatoes and the richness of homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: To make homemade pesto, blend together 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 1/3 cup pine nuts, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, and 2 cloves garlic until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Garden Rotini
A rich and satisfying vegetarian pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-spinach mixture, and cream sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Garden Rotini Bake
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional pasta bakes, this Garlic Parmesan Garden Rotini Bake combines the creaminess of parmesan cheese with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz garden rotini pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, garlic-parmesan mixture, and heavy cream. Mix well to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Garden Rotini Salad
Transform your salad game with this vibrant Mediterranean-inspired creation! This easy-to-make dish combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the classic comfort of rotini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and/or romaine)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Add cooked rotini pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking pasta)
Roasted Vegetable Garden Rotini Casserole
Roasted Vegetable Garden Rotini Casserole Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful casserole filled with roasted vegetables, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. Toss vegetables with olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Garden Rotini with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, featuring grilled chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, parsley, basil, and oregano.
3. Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, and cherry tomatoes. Pour lemon herb mixture over the top and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Garden Rotini Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines spicy sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy pasta for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Italian-style or Chorizo), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup rotini pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Garden Rotini
Discover the flavors of Italy with this simple yet flavorful rotini dish, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. garden rotini pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato-basil mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Garden Rotini Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of broccoli, garden vegetables, and creamy cheese with the convenience of rotini pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup mixed garden vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and garden vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine shredded cheese and milk. Stir over low heat until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Garden Rotini with Shrimp and Asparagus
Savor the flavors of the garden with this zesty and refreshing pasta dish, featuring succulent shrimp and tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Add the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet with the asparagus. Stir in the lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and asparagus mixture. Toss to combine, adding grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Garden Rotini with Balsamic Glaze
A vibrant and flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, this dish combines fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a rich balsamic glaze, all wrapped up in tender rotini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mozzarella slices and chopped basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and basil is fragrant.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the tomato-mozzarella mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the pasta and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Garden Rotini with Italian Sausage
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, one-pot pasta dish featuring sweet Italian sausage and a medley of garden vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz rotini pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in sliced bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the pot with sausage mixture.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together and sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Garden Rotini with Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and healthy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz garden rotini pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grilled vegetables of your choice (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill your chosen vegetables until tender and lightly charred.
6. Serve pasta topped with grilled vegetables and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Garden Rotini with Tofu
Experience the harmony of Thai flavors and Italian rotini pasta, elevated by the creamy richness of peanut sauce and the savory goodness of tofu. This vibrant dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal to share.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and Thai red curry paste; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tofu, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Garden Rotini Soup
Experience the flavors of a summer garden in this vibrant and refreshing tomato soup. Fresh basil and herbs add a bright note to this comforting, yet light, soup perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup rotini pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, vegetable broth, and rotini pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Garden Rotini Alfredo
Roasted Red Pepper and Garden Rotini Alfredo Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, flavorful dish featuring roasted red peppers and fresh garden herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rotini pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook rotini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted red peppers, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and red pepper sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Style Garden Rotini with Feta and Olives
A Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish that combines the flavors of Greece with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Greek yogurt to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Combine the cooked rotini, reserved pasta water, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese in the skillet. Toss to coat, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Greek Style Garden Rotini with Feta and Olives!
Buffalo Chicken Garden Rotini Bake
Transform your garden-variety pasta bake into a spicy, savory, and satisfying meal with this Buffalo Chicken Garden Rotini Bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rotini pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Frank’s RedHot sauce and ranch dressing.
4. In a separate pot, sauté onion and garlic until tender. Add peas and carrots; cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 fresh and wholesome garden rotini recipes! From classic combinations like Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes to bold twists like Spicy Sausage and Garden Rotini Skillet, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes showcase the versatility of garden rotini. With flavors ranging from Mediterranean to Thai-inspired, you’ll never tire of the possibilities. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these mouthwatering dishes!
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