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Creamy Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

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A quick and easy creamy pesto pasta dish featuring fresh basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle recommended)
  • 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or 2 oz (60 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1/3 cup (30 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and juices start to release. Avoid burning the garlic.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) basil pesto and 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or 2 oz (60 g) softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  5. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat with sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir gently until melted and blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit for a minute to meld flavors. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously for best flavor. Avoid burning garlic by sautéing on moderate heat. Add reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut or cashew cream and use dairy-free pesto and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto pasta, cherry tomatoes, easy dinner, basil pesto, quick pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/creamy-pesto-pasta-with-cherry-tomatoes-easy-recipe-for-flavorful-dinner/