Oh, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up in the kitchen: pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes! There’s just something magical about combining fresh, vibrant ingredients that makes cooking feel so joyful and alive. The aroma of the roasted tomatoes fills the kitchen, and when you mix in that bright, herby pesto, it’s pure bliss! I love how easy this dish is to make, yet it feels so special—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress friends at a get-together. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it works for just about everyone! Trust me, once you take a bite of this delightful pasta, you’ll be hooked on the flavors and the simplicity of it all. Let’s dive into the fun part—making it!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz pasta (your choice of type, I love using penne or spaghetti!)
- 1 cup packed pesto (store-bought or homemade, whatever you prefer!)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved, they add such a sweet burst of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my favorite for richness)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, it really brings out the flavor!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked pepper is the best!)
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because roasting those cherry tomatoes at this temperature will give them that lovely caramelization and intense flavor. You’ll be amazed at how much deeper their taste becomes with just a little heat!
Prepare the Tomatoes
Now, let’s get those cherry tomatoes ready! Toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. I like to make sure they’re evenly coated—this way, every little bite will be bursting with flavor! Just a quick mix with your hands or a spoon will do the trick.
Roast the Tomatoes
Spread those beautifully coated tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for that perfect moment when they start to get a little charred around the edges. That’s the sweet spot of yumminess!
Cook the Pasta
While your tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key for flavorful pasta! Add the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking!
Combine Ingredients
Once your pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Now, here’s the fun part—add in that vibrant 1 cup of pesto and those roasted tomatoes. Mix everything together gently, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious pesto goodness and gets some of those sweet tomatoes. The colors alone are enough to make you smile!
Serve Warm
Finally, plate your pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes and serve it warm. I love to finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of extra olive oil for that finishing touch. Trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away while it’s all fresh and fragrant!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes! Each serving is a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients. Here are the typical values you’ll find in one serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying. It’s a satisfying dish that not only fills your belly but also nourishes your body, making it a winner in my book!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes turns out absolutely delicious every single time! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Adjust the Pesto: Don’t be afraid to tweak the amount of pesto to suit your taste! If you love that herby kick, go for a little extra. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more to your liking.
- Experiment with Pasta: This recipe is super versatile! You can use any pasta you love—spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Each type brings a different texture that can make the dish unique.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh basil or parsley right before serving. It brings a lovely freshness that complements the roasted tomatoes beautifully.
- Cheese Variety: If you want to elevate this dish, try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top. It adds a creamy, tangy contrast that’s simply divine!
- Roast More Veggies: Feel free to throw in some other veggies with the tomatoes, like zucchini or bell peppers. Just toss them with olive oil and seasonings, and roast them alongside the tomatoes. More color and flavor!
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the roasted tomatoes and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just mix them together with the pesto when you’re ready to eat; it’ll save you time and keep the meal stress-free!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this dish and impressing anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes is how easy it is to mix things up! Here are some fun variations you can try to make this dish your own:
- Veggie Boost: Add some sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition. You can toss them in right before serving for a lovely, fresh touch.
- Protein Power: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Just toss them in with the pesto and roasted tomatoes for a complete dish!
- Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs! While basil is a classic, fresh oregano or thyme can add a delightful twist. Just chop a handful and sprinkle it in for added aroma and flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts make a lovely addition! Just sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pesto.
- Cheesy Goodness: Swap out the Parmesan for crumbled feta or add a dollop of ricotta for a creamier finish. It changes the flavor profile entirely and is oh-so-delicious!
- Pasta Variety: Try using whole wheat or lentil-based pasta for a healthier twist. Each type adds its unique flavor and texture, making every meal feel fresh and exciting!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the pesto or roast jalapeños along with your tomatoes. It’ll give your dish a delightful spicy kick!
With these variations, you can customize your pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes to suit your cravings or make it interesting for your next gathering. Get creative and have fun with it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—dinner is ready in just 40 minutes!
- Uses fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors that sing with every bite.
- Perfectly combines the creaminess of pesto with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for all diets.
- Customizable to suit your taste or to use up whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Looks gorgeous on the plate with its bright colors, perfect for impressing guests.
- Comforting yet light, so you’ll feel satisfied without the heaviness.
- Great for meal prep—just make a big batch and enjoy leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
To really make your pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes shine, consider serving it alongside some delightful dishes or sides that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are a few ideas that will enhance your meal experience:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic! Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto sauce left on your plate.
- Caprese Salad: A fresh salad with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds a refreshing contrast to the pasta.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing is a fantastic side that adds a nice crunch and complements the richness of the pesto.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve a platter filled with olives, marinated artichokes, and assorted cheeses for a delightful appetizer that sets the stage for the main dish.
- Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: These savory bites add an earthy flavor that works so well with the herbaceous notes of the pesto.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can give a sweet and refreshing end to the meal, balancing the savory pasta beautifully.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or occasion, and you’ll create a lovely dining experience that makes your pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes even more memorable!
Print
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes: 7 Steps to Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pasta dish featuring pesto and roasted tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup pesto
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
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 return to pot.
- Add pesto and roasted tomatoes to pasta and mix well.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer.
- Adjust pesto quantity to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes