Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 20 minutes? Look no further! This Pesto Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a vibrant, flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your pasta night with this simple yet satisfying homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients, likely already in your pantry!
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper alternative)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
This recipe is a breeze to follow, perfect for quick dinner ideas.
Get started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the pesto:
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. Combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Process until smooth, adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil as needed to create a creamy consistency.
Combine and serve:
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Halve the cherry tomatoes. Once the pasta is cooked, add the halved tomatoes to the pot and toss gently.
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Add the pesto to the pasta and tomatoes, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pesto Pasta:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on fresh basil and good olive oil. Don't skimp on these!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Adjust the pesto to your taste: If you prefer a stronger pesto flavor, add more basil or Parmesan cheese. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of garlic.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.
- Get creative with your additions: Roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or shrimp would be delicious additions to this dish.
Variations:
- Lemon Pesto Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the pesto for a bright and zesty twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for some of the fresh cherry tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Vegetarian Pesto Pasta: This recipe is already vegetarian but you can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This healthy meal provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Calorie counts will vary based on the type of pasta and amount of cheese used. This is an estimate only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary information.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550
- Protein: Approximately 10-15g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 60-70g
This pesto pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It’s a delightful, healthy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. Enjoy!