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I love pasta on a summer night – especially when we are dining alfresco. The Italians have so many simple, beautiful pasta dishes to choose from. They offer a gourmet dining experience that feels effortless. Minimal ingredients and cook time produce mouth-watering results. And all you need to make your meal complete is a bottle of wine and a simple salad. Ready for a pasta night? Try one (or all) of these classics.
Linguine and Clams
Perhaps one of my favorite summer dinners. This one is great for entertaining. If you prep your ingredients beforehand, you will only have to slip away from your guests for about 10 minutes while you boil the pasta and steam your clams. Plus, despite being so simple, this dish really feels like a gourmet meal. Get the recipe here.
Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp/dry white wine or rose.
Pasta Carbonara
This one is a staple in our home. Who can pass up a creamy pasta loaded with bacon, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese? Not me. Get the recipe here.
Wine Pairing: Most folks suggest a white like Pinot Grigio for Carbonara. I happen to prefer light-bodied reds with this dish – try a Nebbiolo or Barbera.
Bucatini All’ Amatriciana
An underappreciated dish in my option. This effortless sauce packs so much flavor. Try it out on pizza too. Here are my recipes for Bucatini All’ Amatriciana and Pizza Amatriciana.
Wine Pairing: It is common to pair this spicy sauce with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
Summer in a Bowl Pasta
A no-cook vegetarian pasta sauce loaded with tomato and basil. Oh, and Brie cheese! That’s what makes it a creamy delight. Find the recipe here.
Wine Pairing: This pasta goes best with a crisp/acidic white or Rose.
Basil Pesto
Another no-cook vegetarian sauce that screams summertime. Top it with shrimp or chicken if you want a heartier meal.
Wine Pairing: Try a sauvignon blanc or chianti.
