Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in light, flavorful pasta dishes, and what better way to embrace the season than with a collection of irresistible summer rigatoni recipes?
From creamy, zesty lemon sauces to fresh, garden-inspired pesto, these recipes highlight the best summer ingredients while offering something for every palate.
Whether you’re enjoying a family meal or preparing a dish to share at a summer gathering, these summer rigatoni recipes are bound to become your new favorites.
Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with vibrant flavors, making it the ideal choice for busy evenings or lazy weekend afternoons.
23+ Delicious Summer Rigatoni Recipes to Try This Season
These 23+ summer rigatoni recipes are the perfect way to celebrate the season with fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for something creamy and comforting or light and citrusy, there’s a recipe here that’s perfect for every occasion.
Try them out and discover how easy it is to elevate your summer meals with pasta that’s bursting with flavor.
Summer Corn & Zucchini Rigatoni
Light, vibrant, and brimming with summer’s freshest bounty, Summer Corn & Zucchini Rigatoni is a dish that brings the garden to your plate.
The sweetness of corn and tender zucchini slices are sautéed with garlic and olive oil, infusing the air with a comforting, savory aroma.
Every bite offers a contrast of creamy rigatoni and crisp vegetables, tied together with a dusting of Parmesan.
It’s a versatile meal perfect for a casual lunch or a backyard dinner party with chilled white wine.
Roasted Tomato Rigatoni
Roasted Tomato Rigatoni captures the essence of summer in every forkful with its slow-roasted cherry tomatoes that burst with concentrated sweetness.
The dish carries a naturally smoky depth from the caramelized tomato skins, balanced by fresh basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
The rigatoni soaks up all the juices, creating a rich, tangy-sweet sauce that clings to every ridge.
Serve it warm with grilled sourdough or cold as a pasta salad—either way, it’s a seasonal crowd-pleaser.
Lemon Ricotta Rigatoni
Lemon Ricotta Rigatoni is a creamy yet refreshing summer delight that tastes like sunshine in a bowl.
Whipped ricotta is lightened with lemon zest and juice, creating a sauce that’s silky, tangy, and incredibly smooth.
Each bite offers a delicate balance of citrus and cream, with flecks of black pepper and fresh herbs adding complexity.
This recipe shines on its own or alongside grilled fish or a leafy green salad.
Grilled Vegetable Rigatoni
Grilled Vegetable Rigatoni delivers bold, smoky flavors from flame-kissed bell peppers, eggplant, and squash, all tossed with al dente pasta.
The vegetables offer a charred exterior and juicy interior, layered over a bed of garlic-kissed tomato sauce.
The combination of textures—from chewy pasta to tender veggies—is incredibly satisfying.
This colorful dish works well for potlucks or as a light vegetarian main during hot summer evenings
Basil Pesto Rigatoni
Basil Pesto Rigatoni is a fragrant green feast perfect for warm days when you crave something light yet flavor-packed.
Fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan create a pesto that’s earthy, nutty, and kissed with olive oil richness.
The sauce wraps around the rigatoni like a silk robe, delivering bursts of herby freshness in each bite.
Pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it solo with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for added zing.
Peach & Burrata Rigatoni
Peach & Burrata Rigatoni is an unexpected twist on summer pasta, marrying sweet fruit with creamy cheese and peppery arugula.
The ripe peaches provide a juicy contrast to the luscious burrata, while toasted almonds add a surprise crunch.
It’s a textural and flavor-driven experience, where sweet, savory, and creamy notes play off one another perfectly.
This unique recipe is ideal for those hot nights when you want something elegant without turning on the oven.
Caprese Rigatoni
Caprese Rigatoni is a warm twist on the classic summer salad, blending juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil with tender pasta.
As it simmers, the tomatoes release their sweet juices, creating a light, silky sauce that clings to each rigatoni tube.
The mozzarella softens just enough to melt slightly, offering gooey bites of richness throughout.
This dish is both bright and satisfying, making it perfect for a breezy lunch or picnic-ready dinner.
Ricotta Pea Rigatoni
Ricotta Pea Rigatoni is a creamy, garden-inspired delight that celebrates the sweetness of peas in peak season.
The ricotta adds a luxurious, cloud-like texture while lemon zest brightens each bite with citrusy flair.
The peas provide tiny pops of freshness that balance the dish’s richness beautifully.
It’s a cheerful, versatile recipe that works wonderfully with grilled chicken or on its own for a vegetarian meal.
Zesty Shrimp Rigatoni
Zesty Shrimp Rigatoni brings coastal summer vibes with every forkful, thanks to juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic, lemon, and chili flakes.
The dish boasts a bold yet refreshing flavor profile, with the heat tempered by a light tomato and herb base.
The shrimp stay tender and plump, nestling perfectly into the grooves of the pasta.
Enjoy it beachside or at your next patio dinner—it’s made for laid-back indulgence.
Spinach Artichoke Rigatoni
Spinach Artichoke Rigatoni is a nod to the classic dip, reimagined as a light summer pasta that’s creamy without being heavy.
The spinach wilts into the sauce, while the artichoke hearts add a gentle tang and meaty texture.
Cream cheese or Greek yogurt provides a smooth base with a whisper of garlic and nutmeg.
Serve this comforting yet summery dish with a glass of chilled rosé for a casual dinner al fresco.
Herbed Ricotta Rigatoni
Herbed Ricotta Rigatoni is a fragrant, mellow dish that showcases the subtle magic of seasonal herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives.
Creamy ricotta forms the base of a sauce that’s light, fluffy, and infused with earthy green notes.
Each bite melts in your mouth, with just enough black pepper and lemon to keep things interesting.
This pasta is as lovely as a standalone meal as it is alongside grilled vegetables or a crisp salad.
Tomato Burrata Rigatoni
Tomato Burrata Rigatoni is a rich yet refreshing summer pasta where slow-simmered tomatoes meet the luscious creaminess of burrata.
The warm, rustic tomato sauce bursts with umami and garden sweetness, coating every rigatoni with flavor.
A ball of burrata placed on top finishes the dish with a dramatic, indulgent flourish.
As it breaks open, the creamy center flows into the sauce, creating a dreamy, velvety finish that’s irresistible on a hot evening.
Garlic Herb Rigatoni
Garlic Herb Rigatoni is a fragrant, easy-to-make dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs in every bite.
The pasta is tossed in a golden sauce that’s rich with rosemary, thyme, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, offering a warm, comforting experience.
The aroma of garlic fills the air, while the pasta’s texture is perfectly chewy.
This simple yet flavorful dish is a great side for grilled meats or served on its own for a quick weeknight dinner.
Lemon Asparagus Rigatoni
Lemon Asparagus Rigatoni brings together the crisp freshness of asparagus and the bright zing of lemon, creating a light and refreshing summer pasta.
The asparagus is sautéed just enough to retain its crunch, while the lemon adds a tangy vibrancy that lifts the entire dish.
Tossed with a light olive oil-based sauce and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan, each bite feels both fresh and satisfying.
This dish is a fantastic option for a light dinner or a flavorful side to accompany seafood.
Pesto Caprese Rigatoni
Pesto Caprese Rigatoni is a delicious blend of basil pesto and classic Caprese flavors, with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil joining the mix.
The pesto gives the dish a savory, herby richness, while the tomatoes and cheese bring in a refreshing balance.
The rigatoni captures all the vibrant pesto, creating a well-rounded dish that feels both indulgent and fresh.
Perfect for a summer dinner or as a pasta salad to bring to your next gathering.
Roasted Garlic & Spinach Rigatoni
Roasted Garlic & Spinach Rigatoni is a dish that sings with the deep, smoky flavor of roasted garlic paired with the earthiness of spinach.
The pasta is bathed in a velvety sauce that combines the richness of garlic and a hint of cream, making each bite satisfyingly smooth.
The spinach adds a lovely contrast with its slight bitterness, making it a well-rounded, comforting meal.
Whether served warm for dinner or as part of a picnic, this dish is an excellent way to enjoy a taste of summer.
Balsamic Chicken Rigatoni
Balsamic Chicken Rigatoni blends tender chicken, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fresh vegetables into a perfectly balanced, savory pasta dish.
The balsamic glaze reduces to a syrupy consistency, coating the chicken and vegetables in a sweet-savory sauce that enhances the entire dish.
The rigatoni holds onto the glaze, creating bursts of flavor with every bite.
It’s a versatile recipe that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad.
Sweet Corn & Basil Rigatoni
Sweet Corn & Basil Rigatoni is a simple, vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer with every bite.
The sweet corn is sautéed until golden, infusing the dish with a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy basil.
The rigatoni’s texture contrasts nicely with the corn’s slight crunch, while the fresh basil elevates the flavors with its herbaceous aroma.
It’s the perfect choice for a light lunch or an easy summer dinner.
Summer Pesto Rigatoni
Summer Pesto Rigatoni is a vibrant, herbaceous dish that brings the freshness of summer to your plate with every bite.
The basil pesto is rich and aromatic, with the perfect balance of olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.
The rigatoni soaks up all the bold, green goodness, while the slight bitterness of the fresh basil lifts the flavors.
It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fresh side to complement grilled meats or vegetables.
Tomato Basil Rigatoni
Tomato Basil Rigatoni is a timeless pasta dish that highlights the simplicity and beauty of summer’s finest ingredients.
The sweet, juicy tomatoes meld perfectly with the fragrant basil, creating a light, fresh sauce that clings to every curve of the pasta.
Each bite is a burst of summery goodness, with the tomatoes providing sweetness and the basil offering a bright, aromatic finish.
This dish is perfect as a light lunch or dinner, and pairs well with a crisp white wine.
Spicy Shrimp Rigatoni
Spicy Shrimp Rigatoni is an exciting, bold dish that combines the heat of chili flakes with the delicate sweetness of shrimp.
The shrimp are cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, while the rigatoni carries the fiery, flavorful sauce.
The spices give the pasta a nice kick, balanced by a touch of lemon and olive oil for depth.
This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat and is great paired with a cool, refreshing salad or bread to soak up the sauce.
Avocado Rigatoni
Avocado Rigatoni is a creamy, dreamy dish that swaps out heavy cream for the silky smoothness of ripe avocado.
The avocado creates a luscious, velvety sauce that’s fresh and indulgent without being too rich.
Tossed with lemon juice and fresh herbs, the pasta takes on a cool, satisfying flavor.
This dish is light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for a summer dinner that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Roasted Veggie Rigatoni
Roasted Veggie Rigatoni brings together a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, to create a hearty, satisfying pasta.
The vegetables are caramelized in the oven, intensifying their natural sweetness, and are then tossed with the pasta.
The rigatoni holds onto the roasted flavors, making every bite a savory, flavorful experience.
This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy summer’s bounty, whether served as a main course or as a side to grilled meats.
Creamy Lemon Rigatoni
Creamy Lemon Rigatoni is a zesty, comforting dish that combines the creaminess of a Parmesan sauce with the bright acidity of lemon.
The sauce is rich and smooth, with the lemon providing a refreshing burst of citrus to balance the creamy texture.
The rigatoni, perfectly coated in the creamy sauce, offers a satisfying texture with each bite.
It’s a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a full, balanced meal.
Conclusion
If you’re craving fresh, seasonal dishes that are both easy to prepare and full of flavor, look no further than these 23+ summer rigatoni recipes.
From zesty lemon-infused options to savory roasted vegetable blends, each recipe offers a unique twist on this classic pasta.
These dishes are bound to bring joy to your table all summer long.
