Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes! Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto mixed with juicy cherry tomatoes are just unbeatable. Plus, it’s so incredibly easy to whip up! I remember the first time I made this for a quick family dinner. My kids were skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning! It was a hit, and now it’s a staple in our home. Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something fresh and flavorful, this dish is perfect. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for any occasion!
Ingredients List
To make my delicious pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, you’ll need just a handful of fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 200g pasta (I love using spaghetti or penne, but feel free to pick your favorite!)
- 100g fresh basil pesto (homemade or store-bought — both work wonders!)
- 200g cherry tomatoes, halved (the sweeter, the better!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for that extra richness)
- Salt to taste (a little sprinkle goes a long way!)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (grated, for that lovely finishing touch)
Gather these goodies, and you’re on your way to creating something truly delightful!
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial, as it helps the pasta cook evenly. Once boiling, add in your 200g of pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. While that’s happening, let’s work on those cherry tomatoes!
In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. To really release those flavors, toss in your 200g of halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften and burst. Oh, the smell—it’s heavenly! Feel free to give them a little stir here and there to ensure they don’t stick.
Once the pasta is cooked, be sure to reserve a splash of the starchy cooking water (about a half cup), then drain the rest. Add the drained pasta directly into the pan with those gorgeous tomatoes. Now, here comes the magic: stir in 100g of your fresh basil pesto. Mix it all together, letting the pesto coat the pasta beautifully. If it seems a bit dry, just splash in a little of that reserved pasta water to loosen things up.
Finally, season with salt to taste and give everything one last toss. Serve your delightful dish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Voila! You’ve got a bowl of pure joy ready to devour!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the goodness packed into this pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes. Each serving is estimated to provide around 550 calories, making it a satisfying main course. You’ll also get about 20g of fat (with just 4g of saturated fat), and a nice boost of protein at 15g. Carbohydrates come in at around 80g, which gives you that energy boost to keep you going. Plus, there’s about 3g of fiber to help keep things moving along! Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each delicious bite!
Tips for Success
To take your pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes to the next level, always use the freshest ingredients you can find—trust me, it makes a world of difference! If you can, opt for homemade pesto; the flavor is unbeatable. When cooking your pasta, don’t forget to salt the water generously; it should taste like the sea! And remember, reserve that pasta water; it can help bind everything together and add a silky texture. For serving, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top can elevate the dish even more. Enjoy it fresh, as this pasta is best when made and served right away!
Variations of Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Now, let’s get creative with this pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes! You can easily mix things up by adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some sautéed spinach or arugula for a pop of color and nutrition. Roasted bell peppers or zucchini also make fantastic additions, adding extra flavor and texture. For a little kick, why not sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or toss in some olives? The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes!
- Fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any meal.
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend lunch.
- Customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider pairing this pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes with a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette works beautifully! Alternatively, some crusty garlic bread can help soak up any leftover pesto goodness on your plate. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a side of roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus will complement the flavors perfectly. Enjoy your meal with a glass of chilled white wine for that extra touch of delight!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, don’t worry—they store beautifully! Just let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water to keep it nice and moist. Stir until warmed through, and you’re good to go!
For more information on the health benefits of basil, check out this Healthline article. You’ll be amazed at what this herb can do!
Print
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes: 5 Steps to Joyful Cooking
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and fresh pesto pasta dish with cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 100g pesto
- 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with tomatoes.
- Stir in the pesto until well combined.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Use fresh basil pesto for best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of pesto to your preference.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes
