Let me tell you, if you’re searching for a quick dinner solution that’s bursting with flavor, then you absolutely need to try my Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes! I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and every time it’s a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes is simply irresistible. It’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my household because it’s so quick and easy to whip up, and trust me, you’ll love how vibrant and delicious it is!
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of fresh basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta can be prepped ahead of time and stored for later, making meals even easier.
The Secret to Perfect Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
The key to making this dish absolutely perfect lies in using high-quality ingredients, particularly the pesto. I always opt for fresh basil pesto (homemade if I have the time!) because it delivers the brightest flavor. Another insider tip is to cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente—this means it retains a bit of a bite and holds up beautifully when mixed with the sauce. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go; this will help you adjust the seasoning and ensure that everything comes together just right. Anyone can make this dish, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“This Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is a game-changer! I made it for my family, and they can’t stop asking for it again!” – Sarah L.
“I whipped this up for dinner last night, and it was devoured in minutes. So fresh and delicious!” – Mike T.
“I love how quick and simple this recipe is. Perfect for a weeknight meal, and it tastes like a gourmet dish!” – Anna R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Swap fresh cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein and heartiness.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for added greens and nutrition.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch.
- Bonus: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the pesto and cook the pasta in advance. Just mix everything together when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of penne pasta? Any pasta shape will work! Try rotini, fettuccine, or even whole-grain options.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this dish? While I recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze the pesto separately and use it later. Just cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Serve warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Perfect Occasions for Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
- A quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Last-minute gatherings with friends or family.
- Lunch meal prep for the week.
- Picnics or potlucks where you want to impress!
- When you need a comforting meal that feels special.
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through this delicious journey! Now, let’s dive into the recipe so you can create your own Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes.
Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Tip: If you can, use homemade pesto for the best flavor! You can also substitute store-bought, but make sure it’s a good quality brand.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold its shape when mixed with the sauce!
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the basil pesto and toss everything together gently. Ensure that all the pasta is coated with that delicious pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes to a serving dish. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and give it a final toss. Serve warm and watch as everyone digs in! This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it also looks stunning on the table.
Nutrition Info: This dish is rich in healthy fats from the pesto and packed with vitamins from the tomatoes. A typical serving is around 400 calories, making it a satisfying yet light meal.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the ultimate Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household! It’s flavorful, quick, and perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how delicious it is. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this vibrant dish, you’ll be making it over and over again. Happy cooking!
Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
-
Total Time:
30 mins -
Yield:
4 servings
Discover the joy of cooking with this quick and simple pesto penne recipe featuring fresh cherry tomatoes for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- • 12 oz penne pasta
- • 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes. While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Step 3: Combine Everything. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the basil pesto and toss everything together gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy. Transfer your Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes to a serving dish. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
- Method: Oven
