Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Parmesan

This Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Parmesan is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make. The vibrant, aromatic pesto pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy Parmesan, creating a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of Italian cuisine in a simple, one-bowl meal.

Ingredients

• 250g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)

• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

• Olive oil for drizzling (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve a bit of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

2. Prepare the Pesto Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat the basil pesto in a large skillet over low heat. If you’d like a creamier texture, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to the pesto. Stir to combine and warm the pesto gently.

3. Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the pesto. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the tomatoes soften slightly and release their juices. This will help integrate their sweetness into the pesto sauce.

4. Combine Pasta and Pesto

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pesto and tomatoes. Toss well to coat the pasta in the pesto, ensuring everything is evenly mixed. If the pasta seems too dry, add a little more reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Finish with Parmesan

Once the pasta is well coated, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese is melted into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

Serve the pesto pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired. Drizzle with a little olive oil for added richness, if you like.

Expert Tips

• Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan, or use nutritional yeast as a substitute.

• Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a boost of protein.

• Customize the Veggies: Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Why This Dish Works

Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Parmesan is a light yet flavorful dish that’s easy to make. The fresh, fragrant basil pesto adds a burst of flavor to the pasta, while the cherry tomatoes offer a sweet contrast. The Parmesan provides a creamy, salty finish, making this pasta dish both comforting and satisfying.

Conclusion

Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Parmesan is a fresh, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the perfect balance of textures and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to dish for pasta lovers.