Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes! It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! The creamy, herby pesto perfectly complements the sweet, juicy roasted tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that dance in your mouth. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was experimenting with some leftover ingredients, and it turned into a family favorite. It’s quick to whip up and feels so indulgent, yet it’s packed with fresh ingredients. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it for days!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish. Fresh ingredients make all the difference, so let’s dive into the details!
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (I love using spaghetti or penne!)
- 1 cup of fresh pesto (store-bought is fine, but homemade is a game-changer!)
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes (halved for maximum sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin if you can, it adds a lovely richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (freshly grated is the best way to go, trust me!)
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
Let’s get to the good part! I’m so excited to walk you through each step of making this mouthwatering pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes. It’s a breeze, and I promise you’ll love the process as much as the delicious result!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step because starting with a hot oven helps the cherry tomatoes roast perfectly, bringing out their natural sweetness and creating that lovely caramelization we all adore. Trust me, it sets the stage for an amazing dish!
Roast the Cherry Tomatoes
Now, let’s get those cherry tomatoes ready! Toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re blistered and bursting with flavor—oh, the smell is heavenly!
Cook the Pasta
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to taste it a minute or two before the time is up to get that perfect texture—nobody likes mushy pasta!
Combine Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it’s time for the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot pasta with the fresh pesto, tossing it gently to coat every noodle. Then, fold in those glorious roasted tomatoes, being careful not to smash them. It’s a beautiful mess that you’ll love!
Serve and Enjoy
Plate your delicious creation and don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. It adds that extra touch of creaminess and flavor that takes this dish over the top. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
It’s always good to know what you’re putting in your body, right? Just keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical estimates. For one serving of this delightful pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes, you can expect to find:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 4g
So, enjoy this dish with peace of mind, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Simple cooking process that even beginners can master.
- Fresh flavors from roasted tomatoes paired with vibrant pesto.
- Healthy ingredients that make you feel good with every bite.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta and toppings.
Tips for Success
To make this dish truly shine, always use the freshest ingredients you can find—fresh basil in your pesto and ripe, juicy tomatoes make a world of difference! If you want to adjust the flavor, feel free to add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to mix things up with this pesto pasta! Try adding in some sautéed spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens. You could also toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein. Feeling adventurous? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of lemon zest can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt, because it’s that good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist and flavorful. Microwaving works too, but watch it closely to avoid drying out!
Print
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes: A Comforting 30-Minute Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful dish combining pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta
- 1 cup of pesto
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread tomatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain pasta and mix with pesto.
- Add roasted tomatoes and toss gently.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust the amount of pesto based on your taste.
- Fresh basil can enhance flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes