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Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe

Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe

5.3 from 8 reviews

This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The homemade pesto adds freshness, while the roasted tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness to each bite. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni, or other)

Pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup (about 60g) pine nuts (or walnuts/cashews)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/2 cup (about 45g) Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil

Roasted Tomatoes:

  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
  • 2 cups (about 250g) cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • To taste salt
  • To taste pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional)

Instructions

  1. Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the cherry tomatoes, place on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Optionally, add garlic cloves. Roast for 20-25 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Gradually add olive oil until smooth. Adjust seasoning.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  4. Combine Pasta and Pesto: Toss cooked pasta with pesto, adding reserved water as needed.
  5. Add Roasted Tomatoes: Gently fold tomatoes into the pasta.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Serve in bowls, garnish with basil, Parmesan, and pine nuts. Enjoy with salad or garlic bread.

Notes

  • You can adjust the consistency of the pesto by adding more olive oil or pasta water.
  • For a creamier pesto, blend in some soaked cashews or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
  • Feel free to customize with additional toppings like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pesto Pasta, Roasted Tomatoes, Italian Pasta Recipe, Homemade Pesto