Easy 20-Minute Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a 20-minute meal that’s bursting with fresh flavor. Sweet cherry tomatoes are sautéed until tender and tossed with warm pasta and vibrant basil pesto.It's simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you use penne, farfalle, or spaghetti, this dish is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights or light summer dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta penne, farfalle, fusilli, or spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Tomatoes:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and starting to blister.
Add Garlic (Optional):
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine with Pasta and Pesto:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the basil pesto and toss everything until evenly coated.
Season and Serve:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Top with grated Parmesan, if desired, and serve warm.