I've always loved how quick and versatile pesto pasta can be, especially when you add in juicy cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. It's a dish that feels fancy but comes together in no time, perfect for busy nights or when you're craving something fresh. The best part? You can customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Curious how to make it shine with just a few simple ingredients? Let's get started.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Pesto Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Here's why you'll love it:
- Fresh and vibrant flavors from the homemade pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute meal.
- Versatile and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite protein or veggies.
Recipe
Pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of basil pesto with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Toss the drained pasta with the cherry tomatoes in the skillet. Add the basil pesto and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes:
- For a nuttier flavor, toast pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them on top before serving.
- To make it vegan, use dairy-free pesto and omit the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, this dish pairs well with Garlic Bread & Salad, creating a balanced meal.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment
To make this pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, you'll need a few basic kitchen tools. Make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Sharp knife and cutting board for slicing cherry tomatoes
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Serving dish or plates for presentation
Nutrition
Pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes is a flavorful and nutritious dish that offers a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins. This recipe combines fresh basil, olive oil, and nutrient-rich cherry tomatoes for a wholesome meal.
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 12g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 55g per serving
- Fiber: 4g per serving
- Fat: 20g per serving (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
- Vitamin C: 25% of daily value per serving
- Iron: 15% of daily value per serving
What to Serve With This Recipe
I'm always excited to figure out what to pair with my pesto pasta, and I've found some great options. Garlic bread is a classic choice, but I also love adding a fresh salad or even extra protein like grilled chicken. Don't forget a glass of wine or a sprinkle of cheese to make the meal feel extra special! Incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients like spinach in a side salad can elevate the meal's health benefits.
Garlic Bread Pairing
When I'm serving pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, I love adding garlic bread to the menu—it's the perfect sidekick. The buttery, garlicky flavors create incredible *flavor contrasts* with the bright, herby pesto. Plus, the crisp crust and soft center of the bread offer a delicious *texture balance* to the pasta's silky smoothness. It's a combo that feels indulgent yet totally simple—exactly how I like my meals.
Fresh Salad Ideas
After enjoying the rich flavors of pesto pasta and garlic bread, I often find myself craving something light and invigorating to balance the meal. A crisp salad with herb infusions, like basil or mint, feels revitalizing. I love experimenting with dressing alternatives, too—try lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze. Toss in greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and texture that complements the pasta perfectly. It's simple yet satisfying!
Wine Selection Tips
Since pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes is packed with bright, herby flavors, you'll want a wine that complements without overpowering the dish. I'd suggest a crisp white like a Pinot Grigio from Italy or a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand—both wine regions shine in food pairings like this. If you prefer red, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir; it's versatile and lets the dish lead. Cheers!
Cheese Variations Guide
If you're like me and think cheese makes everything better, you'll love exploring the cheese pairings that take this pesto pasta to the next level. I adore sprinkling aged cheddar for its sharp, tangy bite or folding in smoked gouda for a creamy, smoky twist. Both add depth, transforming each bite into something unforgettable. Don't be afraid to experiment—your taste buds will thank you!
Protein Additions Options
To crank up the protein in this pesto pasta, I love tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp, which pair perfectly with the bright, herby flavors. Chicken strips are a quick, hearty addition, while shrimp skewers bring a touch of elegance. Both options let you customize your plate, making it as light or filling as you like. They're simple, flavorful, and let you take charge of your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
I'd totally swap the pasta if I want—there are so many pasta alternatives out there. If I'm craving gluten free options, I'd pick rice or chickpea pasta. It's all about making it work for me.
Is It Okay to Omit the Cherry Tomatoes?
It's a curious thing, but I once left tomatoes out of a dish and discovered a world of freedom from tomato allergies. Their absence didn't overshadow the meal; the flavor impact was minimal, still bright and bold.
Can I Substitute the Pesto With Something Else?
Absolutely, I can swap out the pesto for pesto alternatives to suit my taste. I'd experiment with flavor swaps like basil-walnut spread, sun-dried tomato paste, or even a creamy avocado sauce for a fresh twist.
How Long Does This Dish Keep in the Fridge?
I've tested food safety theories and found proper storage duration's key. This dish keeps up to 3 days in the fridge, but I'd recommend enjoying it fresh for maximum flavor. Freedom's in making choices that suit you.
Can I Add Protein Like Chicken or Shrimp?
Yes, I can add protein options like chicken or shrimp to make the dish heartier. Meat additions give me the freedom to customize it to my taste, whether I'm craving poultry or seafood.
