Farfalle with Summer Squash & Pesto
A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring farfalle, tender summer squash, and fresh basil pesto—perfect for a summer meal.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 12 oz farfalle pasta
- 2 medium yellow summer squash, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced summer squash, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- Reduce heat to low, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the squash, and stir to combine.
- Stir in the pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water to coat evenly. Add more pasta water if needed for a smoother sauce.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use zucchini in place of or in addition to yellow squash for variation.
- For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Great served warm or at room temperature for a picnic or potluck.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: farfalle, pesto pasta, summer squash, vegetarian pasta, quick summer dinner