There’s something fascinating about putting together the irresistibly vibrant flavors of homemade pesto with juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes. Like a beautiful dance of colors and aromas, this dish is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients, perfect for a sunny family lunch or a cozy dinner. The aroma of basil mixing with garlic and Parmesan will instantly remind you of why cooking is not just a necessity, but a joy. Welcome to the world of Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes – a simple, yet uniquely delightful recipe that bonds loved ones over a shared passion for delicious food.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli or spaghetti)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, saucy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of olive oil. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and sauté for a couple of minutes until they start to blister and release their juices.
- Combine pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes in the skillet. Mix together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for the perfect meal.
Helpful Tips
- Tip: If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different, but equally delicious twist.
- Variation: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein and variety.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Pairings
To fully enjoy your Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, serve it alongside a crisp green salad and garlic bread. For beverages, a chilled rosé or a light red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
We hope you love making and savoring this delightful Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback on our website Zynahz.com. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration!
