Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta with a Cherry Tomatoes

From Garden to Table: The Quintessential Spring Pasta

This recipe, a testament to the art of combining flavors, will guide you through crafting a dish that sings with the freshness of basil, the nutty whispers of pine nuts, and the sweet, tangy embrace of cherry tomatoes. Every forkful is a melody, a harmonious blend that celebrates the rebirth and vibrant energies of the season.

Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta with a Cherry Tomatoes

---

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (you can also use walnuts or almonds for a twist)
• 2 large garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Coarse salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 500g (1 lb) pasta of your choice (penne, spaghetti, or linguine work well)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• Additional fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Pesto:
   • In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
   • With the processor running, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth.
   • Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
3. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
   • Add the pesto to the pasta, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
   • Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes.
4. Serve:
   • Transfer the pasta to serving dishes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   • Offer freshly ground black pepper and coarse salt for seasoning at the table.

---

Chef’s Tips & Tricks

• Basil Bliss: For the brightest pesto, use fresh basil leaves picked right before their use. The vitality of the leaves is the secret to a pesto that is vivid in both color and flavor.
• Nutty Nuances: Toast the pine nuts lightly to unveil their depth, adding a warm, toasted layer to your pesto that complements the fresh basil beautifully.
• Tomato Tango: Choose cherry tomatoes that are ripe yet firm. Their juicy sweetness will add a burst of flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the rich pesto.
• Pasta Perfection: Opt for pasta that holds sauce well – penne, fusilli, or spaghetti offer crevices and surfaces for our star pesto to cling to, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated.

Possible Variations

• Protein Punch: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty twist.
• Vegan Delight: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan version that retains the creamy, cheesy texture.
• Gluten-Free Joy: Choose gluten-free pasta for a dish everyone can enjoy.

---