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two plates with pesto spaghetti, cherry tomatoes and basil leaves

Pesto Pasta

AuthorRita
This vegetarian pesto pasta dish is made with the easiest homemade pesto recipe! It's super delicious and will be ready in less than 20 minutes.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings2 servings

Ingredients  

Pesto Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese 50 g
  • 1.41 oz cashews 40 g
  • 3.17 oz fresh basil 90 g
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 5.30 oz olive oil 150 g
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Pasta Ingredients

  • 7 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice 200 g
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes 100 g
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 3 tbsp homemade pesto
  • Basil leaves to garnish optional

Instructions 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, add all the pesto ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth.
  3. Then, heat a medium-sized pan over medium heat and drizzle a little olive oil.
  4. When the oil is hot, saute the garlic for 2 minutes or until softened.
  5. Next, add the cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and saute for 3 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
  6. When the pasta is ready, drain the pasta and add it to the pan. 
  7. Then add the pesto and combine everything. Serve garnished with basil leaves.

Notes

Use your favorite type of pasta: We've used spaghetti to make this dish but feel free to use your favorite one. Fusilli and farfalle work great too.
Don't overcook the pasta: Good pasta is cooked to al dente! Keep an eye on it, and don't let it get too soft.
Freeze leftover pesto for other dishes: This homemade pesto freezes very well, and it is great to make different dishes. Freeze in ice cube trays and use small portions every time you need them. 
Add more ingredients to your pasta: As we've said before, this recipe works as a base for a more elaborated pasta dish. Add new ingredients or substitute the tomatoes with another vegetable.
Make this recipe vegan: Make this recipe vegan by replacing parmesan cheese with vegan parmesan cheese.