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Pasta is a beloved staple in many households, revered for its versatility and ability to adapt to various flavors and cuisines. Among the myriad of pasta dishes, creamy pesto pasta stands out as a delightful combination of rich, comforting textures and fresh, vibrant flavors. This dish offers a perfect balance of creaminess and herbaceous notes, making it a go-to choice for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends and family.

Creamy Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Discover the joy of making creamy pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, a dish that combines rich flavors and vibrant ingredients for every occasion. This delightful recipe features a luxurious sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of heavy cream, beautifully enveloping your favorite pasta. Add sweet cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor, making it not only a tasty meal but a feast for the eyes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this creamy pasta is sure to impress family and friends while celebrating the essence of Italian cuisine. Enjoy the comfort and sophistication of this pasta dish in the heart of your home.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup pine nuts (toasted)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.

    Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

      Combine Cream and Pesto: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the prepared pesto and mix until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to reach the desired consistency.

        Add Pasta and Cherry Tomatoes: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy pesto sauce to coat well. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently fold them into the pasta. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

          Serve: Transfer the creamy pesto pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious, creamy meal!

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