Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of vibrant flavors in this delightful Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes! In just 25 minutes, you can create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with the fresh, aromatic essence of Italian cuisine. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta coated in rich, homemade pesto, complemented by the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Use approximately 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to ensure well-seasoned pasta.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, wash and carefully halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside in a small bowl.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, then immediately return it to the hot pot.
- Add the pesto to the hot pasta and gently toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
- Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, allowing their fresh flavor to integrate with the pesto.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently mix.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Salted Water: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously—about 1 tablespoon per 4 quarts. This is crucial for infusing flavor into the pasta as it cooks.
- Al Dente Pasta: Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes, but start checking a minute or two early. You want the pasta to be al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite to it.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve that 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining! It’s a game-changer for achieving a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Gentle Tossing: When adding the pesto, gently toss the pasta to coat it evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Fresh Tomatoes: For the best flavor, use ripe cherry tomatoes. Their natural sweetness will elevate the dish and provide a lovely contrast to the rich pesto.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the pasta immediately in warm bowls and don’t hesitate to add extra Parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 460kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 16g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
