15-Minute Pesto Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes - A Fresh And Zesty Recipe

This week, we're exploring one of the quickest, most delightful meals you can whip up with minimal ingredients yet maximum flavor: the 15-Minute Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes. It's not only a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking but also a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you're a busy parent, a time-starved professional, or just someone who loves a good, quick meal, this recipe is for you.

Ingredients for 15-Minute Pesto Pasta 📦

Before you embark on this culinary journey, here's what you'll need:

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• Pasta (any shape, 8oz)
• Fresh Basil Leaves (about 2 cups, packed)
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
• Pine Nuts (1/4 cup)
• Garlic (2 cloves)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/3 cup)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Cherry Tomatoes (1 pint, halved)
• Optional: Lemon Zest and Chili Flakes

A Note on Ingredients 🎨

When selecting your ingredients, opt for the freshest basil you can find, as it forms the heart of your pesto. If you can't find pine nuts, walnuts make a great substitute. Parmesan can be replaced with pecorino Romano if you prefer a sharper, saltier taste.

Steps to Make Pesto Pasta 🍝

Let's dive into making this simple yet flavorful dish:

Preparing the Pesto 🌿

1. Blend the Basil, Nuts, and Garlic: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and pulse until finely chopped.

2. Add Cheese and Oil: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until you reach a creamy consistency. Add Parmesan cheese, pulse until combined, then season with salt and pepper.

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Cooking the Pasta 🍜

3. Boil Water and Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente.

4. Reserve Some Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve a cup of pasta water for later.

Assembling the Dish 🍴

5. Mix Pasta and Pesto: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Stir in the freshly made pesto.

6. Add Tomatoes and Optional Ingredients: Gently toss in the cherry tomatoes. If using, add a zest of lemon and a pinch of chili flakes for extra zest and heat.

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<p class="pro-note">🍅 Note: Cherry tomatoes are not just for garnish; they add a burst of freshness and acidity that perfectly balances the richness of pesto.</p>

Important Notes on Pesto Pasta 🍽️

• Consistency: If your pesto seems too thick, thin it out with some of the reserved pasta water. This also helps the sauce stick better to the pasta.

• Quality of Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is key for a good pesto. Its distinct flavor significantly enhances the overall dish.

• Freshness: Basil's delicate flavor loses potency when stored for too long. Use fresh basil for the best taste.

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Pesto Pasta Variations 🌈

While this recipe focuses on the classic version, here are a few ideas to shake things up:

• Vegan Option: Swap out Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a cheesy, nutty flavor without dairy.

• Protein Boost: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even cannellini beans for added protein.

• Vegetable Medley: Add in roasted or sautéed vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers.

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This 15-minute Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is not just about speed; it's about celebrating the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients. The simplicity allows each component to shine, providing a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a casual lunch, this dish offers versatility, health, and above all, deliciousness. Now, go ahead and give it a try, or share this recipe with someone who needs a quick meal inspiration.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the vibrant flavors that come together in just a short time. Whether it's the freshness of basil, the creaminess of Parmesan, or the burst of tomatoes, every ingredient plays its part in creating a harmonious and quick meal.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make pesto in advance?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! Pesto can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's also freezer-friendly; just remember to drizzle a layer of olive oil on top before freezing to prevent discoloration.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What type of pasta works best with pesto?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While any type of pasta will do, shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli work great as they hold the sauce well. Long strands like spaghetti or linguine are traditional choices for pesto as well.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I make this dish more nutritious?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Add leafy greens like spinach or kale to the pasta towards the end of cooking. You can also boost the protein by adding nuts, seeds, or legumes to the pesto or the dish itself.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>