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In the world of pasta dishes, few can rival the simplicity and richness of creamy pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes. This vibrant dish has gained popularity for its ability to combine fresh, wholesome ingredients into a meal that is as stunning as it is delicious. At its core, creamy pesto pasta is a celebration of basil, creamy goodness, and the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and invigorating.

Creamy Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Discover the deliciousness of creamy pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, a vibrant dish that combines fresh basil, creamy goodness, and sweet cherry tomatoes. This recipe celebrates the rich flavors of traditional pesto while introducing a velvety cream sauce that perfectly coats your choice of pasta. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both comforting and visually stunning.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne recommended)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a different flavor)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts (or walnuts), grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped. With the processor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. Set the pesto aside.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and add half of the prepared pesto. Stir the mixture gently to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.

        Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss the pasta well to ensure it is evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, carefully add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired creaminess.

          Add Cherry Tomatoes: Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes gently, allowing them to warm through for an additional minute. This step will slightly soften the tomatoes while keeping them juicy.

            Serve: Plate the creamy pesto pasta in bowls or on plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful and flavorful meal!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4