Fresh Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

 

If you're looking for a quick and vibrant meal, this pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes is a delightful choice. Perfect for weeknights or a casual get-together, this dish showcases the fresh flavors of basil and the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes. It's a celebration of summer on a plate!

Imagine al dente pasta tossed in a vibrant, aromatic basil pesto, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor in every bite. This recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly satisfying and packed with taste.

A Bright and Flavorful Pesto Pasta Dish

This delightful pesto pasta brings together a symphony of flavors that are both light and hearty. The herbal freshness of the basil pesto contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, creating a perfect balance. Each bite delivers a nutty, savory, and slightly tangy experience that pasta enthusiasts will cherish.

Vibrant Ingredients for a Fresh Dish

The key components of this dish include fresh basil leaves, which provide that signature pesto flavor, and juicy cherry tomatoes that add a pop of color and sweetness. Pine nuts or walnuts contribute a delightful crunch, while Parmesan cheese offers depth and richness. Together, these ingredients create a wholesome and vibrant meal that’s sure to impress.

Simple Preparation for Busy Days

Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente, then whip up a fresh pesto in a food processor with basil, nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Combining these elements is quick, ensuring you can enjoy your meal in about 25 minutes from start to finish.

Perfect Pairings and Variations

This pesto pasta can be easily customized to suit various tastes. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or toss in some vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. The dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette, making it an excellent choice for a complete meal.

A Feast for the Eyes

Visually, this dish is as appealing as it is delicious. The vibrant green pasta, bright red tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves create a stunning presentation that can elevate any dining experience. Serve it in a rustic bowl on a wooden table, perhaps with some scattered basil leaves around, to enhance that organic feel.

Nutritional Highlights

This pesto pasta dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. With each serving containing approximately 400 calories, it strikes a balance between satisfying and light. The healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, along with the vitamins from the fresh ingredients, make this meal a wholesome option.

 

A Bright and Flavorful Pesto Pasta Dish

 

This pesto pasta is a light yet hearty dish that combines the herbal freshness of pesto with the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes. The taste is a perfect balance of nutty, savory, and slightly tangy, making it an irresistible option for pasta lovers.

 

Recipe

 

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, etc.)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly add olive oil until well blended.
  3. Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto. Add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
  4. Add Tomatoes: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes until evenly distributed.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired, or pine nuts.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 400kcal
  • Fat: 24g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g