Description
A quick and flavorful pasta dish combining vibrant basil pesto and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes for a comforting yet fresh meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until blistered and caramelized.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
- Return drained pasta to the pot. Stir in the pesto and enough reserved pasta water to coat evenly.
- Fold in the roasted tomatoes and any pan juices.
- Serve immediately topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
Notes
- Use homemade pesto for maximum flavor or a quality store-bought version for convenience.
- Great served warm or cold as a pasta salad.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
