Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, then you’ve found it! This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is one of my all-time favorites. It perfectly combines herby pesto with the sweetness of caramelized roasted tomatoes, resulting in a meal that feels fancy yet is super simple to prepare. Whether you’re racing against the clock on a busy weeknight or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can prepare it for a family gathering or even as a meal prep option for your week ahead. No matter the occasion, you’ll be greeted with smiles around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: This dish uses simple, wholesome ingredients that make it feel special without being complicated.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! The sweet roasted tomatoes add a delightful twist that kids and adults will adore.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the pesto in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta and roast the tomatoes when you’re ready!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh basil and roasted tomatoes creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are all simple and wholesome. They come together to create a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (rigatoni or your favorite type)

For the 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

For Roasting Tomatoes

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and try out these variations:

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Go green: Throw in some fresh spinach or arugula for added color and nutrients.
• Change up the nuts: If you prefer, swap out pine nuts for walnuts or cashews; they all work wonderfully!
• Mix up your cheese: Try using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option while still keeping that cheesy flavor.

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and add whole garlic cloves if using. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor—trust me, it’s worth it! Bake for about 20 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Make the Pesto

While those lovely tomatoes are roasting, let’s whip up our pesto. In a food processor, combine fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen—it’s simply delightful! Taste it and adjust seasoning as needed; this is where you can make it just right for you!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining—it can help loosen up your sauce if needed later!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl or pot, combine your cooked pasta with the wonderful pesto sauce. Stir in those beautifully roasted tomatoes along with any juices from the baking sheet. If your pasta looks too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve Up!

Dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes warm—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

Creating a delicious Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is easy, but a few tips can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes make all the difference in flavor. The vibrant taste of fresh herbs accents the pasta beautifully.

• Toast the nuts – Lightly toasting pine nuts (or your choice of nuts) enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your pesto. This small step helps bring out the nutty richness that complements the dish perfectly.

• Balance flavors – Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice if needed. This ensures your pasta has a well-rounded flavor profile that pleases everyone at the table.

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Aim for al dente! Overcooked pasta can become mushy, which detracts from the overall texture of your meal. Follow package instructions and taste-test a minute or two before it’s done.

• Make it ahead – This recipe is great for meal prep! You can prepare your pesto in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat your pasta and toss it together when you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

Serving this vibrant dish is about showcasing its beautiful colors and flavors. Here are some ideas to present it in style!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few whole leaves sprinkled on top add a pop of color and reinforce that fresh basil flavor.
• Grated cheese alternatives – Use a dairy-free cheese option if desired; sprinkle some on top just before serving for an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with pesto pasta, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal while balancing the richness of the pasta.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully, adding both color and nutrition.

• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that works wonderfully alongside this Italian classic.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll impress family and friends alike with your delightful Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is perfect for meal prep! Making a big batch means you can enjoy delicious, homemade dinners throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every night.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pasta is fully cooled.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes.

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade pesto brings out fresh flavors, store-bought pesto can save time and still deliver great taste.

What pasta works best for Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes?

Rigatoni is a fantastic choice because its shape holds onto the pesto beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta type!

Can I add protein to my Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be delicious additions to boost protein and flavor.

How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes, whether it’s for a family dinner or a quick solo meal. The combination of fresh basil and sweet roasted tomatoes is truly delightful. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe—I love hearing how others make it their own! Happy cooking!