Pasta with Courgette and Raw Tomato Salsa Recipe 2026

This pasta with courgette and raw tomato salsa is a perfect summer dish inspired by Neapolitan cooking. The recipe combines warm softened courgettes with a fresh, room-temperature tomato salsa for a balanced and refreshing meal.

Why This Pasta Recipe Works for Hot Days

Inspired by Jeanne Caròla Francesconi's Neapolitan cookbook, this dish treats pasta like salad leaves. The raw tomato salsa sits for 20 minutes or more, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the other ingredients. This technique ensures a juicy, flavorful sauce without heating up your kitchen.

Key Ingredients for Success

Use a mix of tomatoes: sweet cherry tomatoes, fleshy varieties, and a slightly green one for texture. For courgettes, choose small dark green or pale yellow ones for sweetness. The dressing combines olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.

How to Make Pasta with Courgette and Raw Tomato Salsa

Start by dicing your tomatoes and mixing them with olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your pasta al dente. In a separate pan, soften sliced courgettes in olive oil with spring onion until tender.

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve some starchy water. Toss the pasta with the softened courgettes, then add the raw tomato salsa. Mix gently but thoroughly. Add a splash of pasta water if needed for moisture.

• Use a selection of tomatoes for depth of flavor and texture.
• Let the salsa sit for 20 minutes to 2 hours for maximum juiciness.
• Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce.
• Toss gently like a salad to avoid breaking the tomatoes.
• Serve at room temperature for the best summer experience.

Variations and Tips

Chef Valentina Harris calls this sugo di vacanza (holiday sauce). Add olives, capers, or minced anchovies to the tomato mix for extra flavor. You can also use any pasta shape, though vermicelli or spaghetti work well.

FAQ

This pasta with courgette and raw tomato salsa is a refreshing, no-cook sauce option for summer. The combination of warm courgettes and cool salsa creates a satisfying meal that celebrates fresh produce.