Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

This simple yet vibrant pasta dish celebrates the bright flavors of summer. Sweet cherry tomatoes burst with juicy goodness, while fragrant pesto adds a herbaceous kick. It's quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a casual get-together. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to¹ package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about² 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

2. Sauté the tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (don't let it burn!). Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to coat the pasta with the tomato sauce. Add the pesto and toss again until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

4. Add cheese and serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

   
   
   

Tips & Variations:

• Homemade Pesto: For the best flavor, use homemade pesto. It's surprisingly easy to make!
• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans would be delicious additions to this pasta.
• Roasted Tomatoes: For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the pasta. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a little heat.
• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest added at the end brightens up the flavors.

Enjoy this delightful and easy pasta dish! It's the perfect way to savor the taste of summer.