The aroma of freshly roasted tomatoes mingling with vibrant basil pesto can make anyone weak in the knees. Picture this: twirling perfectly al dente pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with flavors that dance on your tongue. Tomato Basil Salmon Pasta This is not just any meal; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen.
I remember the first time I made Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes for my family. The kids were initially skeptical, but one taste sent them into fits of giggles and happy dance moves around the kitchen. Garlic Butter Bucatini It was a culinary victory that turned “green slop” into an award-winning dish! Perfect for cozy weeknights or fancy dinner parties, this recipe is bound to impress.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Visually stunning with its bright colors, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering. You can effortlessly customize it by adding proteins or veggies based on what’s in your fridge. [/info_box]
I still chuckle thinking about how my son proclaimed himself the “Pasta King” after devouring three bowls in one sitting, leaving me both proud and slightly horrified at the amount of carbs he consumed.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Choice: I recommend spaghetti or penne for their ability to hold onto the pesto wonderfully.
Fresh Basil: Look for vibrant green leaves; they bring a sweet, aromatic flavor that’s essential to pesto. Mexican Macaroni Salad.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add a nutty crunch; don’t skip this step!
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for richer flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe recipe.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish with its fruity notes and smooth texture.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; you can adjust based on your love for garlic!
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems burst with flavor when roasted and complement the pesto perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; use them generously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, wash and halve those cherry tomatoes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast the Tomatoes: Roast those beauties in the oven for about 20 minutes until they’re caramelized and bursting with juice. The smell will have your neighbors knocking at your door!
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking together like old friends at a reunion.
Create the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth while scraping down the sides as needed. Taste it—if it’s not making you do a happy dance, add more cheese!
Toss Everything Together: Drain your pasta (reserve some pasta water) and return it to the pot. Pour in that luscious pesto sauce and toss like you’re in a food commercial! If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
Add Roasted Tomatoes & Serve!: Gently fold in those roasted tomatoes. Serve immediately in warm bowls topped with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every bite while basking in your culinary glory!
This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes brings together fresh ingredients that create an explosion of flavor in every mouthful. It’s quick to prepare yet feels gourmet—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that will surely become a household favorite! For more inspiration, check out this Tomato Soup for a Cozy Meal recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion. The fresh basil, garlic, and roasted tomatoes create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the tomatoes to enhance their sweetness while you cook the pasta. Blend the pesto ingredients in a food processor for a fresh and vibrant sauce that pairs beautifully with the noodles.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pine nuts for walnuts in your pesto or add spinach for extra nutrients. Cranberry Feta Chicken Bake Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein if desired.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged. Don’t rush the roasting; letting the tomatoes caramelize will deepen their flavor. Always taste your pesto; adjust garlic or lemon juice based on your preference. [/info_box]
My friend once told me this pasta dish was one of her favorite meals—she even made it for her first dinner party! It was a hit, and I learned how simple yet impressive it can be.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for pesto?
Any pasta shape works, but fusilli or penne holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Just remember that homemade pesto adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor.
How do I make my pesto vegan?
Substitute nutritional yeast for cheese and use nuts or seeds as desired for creaminess.
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is a vibrant, flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary delight. The combination of fresh basil, sweet roasted tomatoes, and creamy pesto sauce perfectly coats al dente pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. With endless options for customization, this recipe invites creativity while delivering a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast tomatoes for 20 minutes until caramelized.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a food processor, blend basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
- Drain pasta (reserve some water) and return it to the pot. Mix in pesto sauce and add reserved water if needed for creaminess.
- Gently fold in roasted tomatoes and serve warm with extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
