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Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Discover how to make vibrant Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil in under 30 minutes. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe is a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup basil leaves chopped
  • 1/2 cup prepared pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • q.s. Salt and pepper to taste
  • q.s. Red chili flakes optional for spice

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
  2. Add your pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the halved cherry tomatoes until they soften and release their juices. Add salt and pepper.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir in the pesto and toss everything together.
  5. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  6. Mix in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan. Stir well and taste for seasoning. Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be customized with your favorite protein or extra vegetables. Serve with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
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