There’s something magical about a plate of Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes that makes your taste buds twirl and your heart dance. Picture a vibrant dish where the fresh, aromatic pesto embraces tender pasta, while sweet, sun-kissed cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor. zesty orzo salad with veggies It’s like a culinary hug on a plate, perfect for those nights when you want to impress friends or simply indulge after a long day.
This recipe has a special place in my heart (and my stomach!). I can still remember the first time I made it for my family. Let’s just say there were more giggles than graceful twirls in the kitchen that day! The delightful aroma wafting through the air had everyone peeking around the corner, eager to know what was cooking. Now, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes always gets rave reviews and happy bellies! For more inspiration, check out this cheesesteak pasta recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
- This amazing Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes: delicious Caprese stuffed mushrooms.
- Pasta of Choice: Use any type you love! Spaghetti or penne work well, but feel free to experiment.
- Fresh Basil Pesto: Store-bought is fine, but homemade pesto will elevate the flavors dramatically.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy ones; they’ll burst with sweetness when roasted.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds an irresistible umami kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (trust me, your future self will thank you).
Step 2: Roast Those Cherry Tomatoes
Place your halved cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before tossing them gently. Spread them out evenly so they have plenty of room to roast into sweet perfection.
Step 3: Bake Away
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and let them roast for about 20-25 minutes until they’re blistered and caramelized. The aroma will be heavenly—like an Italian restaurant exploded in your kitchen!
Step 4: Cook Your Pasta
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of pasta water before draining!
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta, fresh basil pesto, and those glorious roasted cherry tomatoes. If things look too dry (which we definitely don’t want!), splash in some reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your masterpiece onto plates and generously sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. For an extra touch of finesse (and flavor), consider adding more fresh basil leaves as garnish.
And there you have it! Serve this fabulous Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes at your next dinner party or enjoy it as a comforting meal at home—either way, you’re guaranteed smiles all around!
You Must Know About Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
- This amazing Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes Cooking Process
To achieve the best flavors, roast the cherry tomatoes first to intensify their sweetness. While they are roasting, cook your pasta until al dente. Finally, toss everything together with your homemade pesto, ensuring every bite is coated in deliciousness.
Add Your Touch to Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones or add grilled chicken for protein. You can also experiment with different nuts in your pesto or sprinkle some feta cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to keep the pasta moist and prevent it from drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
- This amazing Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes offers more than just flavor it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends come over unexpectedly; they’ll rave about how fancy it looks while I secretly chuckle because it’s so easy!
FAQs About Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
What is Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes?
Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes combines the vibrant flavors of basil pesto and sweet, caramelized cherry tomatoes. This dish features al dente pasta tossed in a delicious homemade or store-bought pesto sauce, topped with juicy roasted cherry tomatoes. The contrast between the savory pesto and the sweetness of the tomatoes creates a delightful taste experience. It’s an easy yet sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion, whether a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
How do you make Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes?
To prepare Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved cherry tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your favorite pasta until al dente. crispy corn and basil fritters In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with freshly made or store-bought pesto. Once the cherry tomatoes are done roasting, mix them into the pasta. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a delicious finish.
What can I serve with Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes?
Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes pairs well with various side dishes to create a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette is also a fantastic addition to soak up any leftover pesto sauce. refreshing tomato peach burrata salad For protein lovers, grilled chicken or shrimp can complement this dish beautifully and add heartiness to your meal.
Can I make Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes ahead of time! To do this, cook the pasta and roast the cherry tomatoes as directed. Allow both to cool before mixing them together with pesto. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Conclusion for Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes
Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and simplicity. With its easy preparation and versatility, it suits various occasions from casual dinners to special gatherings. Remember to use high-quality ingredients like fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for optimal taste. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pesto pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with fresh basil pesto and sweet, caramelized cherry tomatoes. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or impressive gatherings. With its delightful taste and customizable ingredients, this dish will tantalize your taste buds while bringing joy to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until blistered.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, and roasted tomatoes. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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