Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g bow tie pasta; 200g cherry tomatoes, halved; 100g pesto (homemade or store-bought); 30g grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes on a sunny afternoon. It's the perfect dish that balances vibrant flavors with ease of preparation. Combining al dente bow tie pasta with fresh pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes makes a delightful meal that bursts with taste. Whether it's for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a versatile option for any occasion!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:44:49.224Z

When I first tried Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The fresh, vibrant ingredients not only create a colorful dish, but they also excite your taste buds. To achieve the best flavor, I recommend using homemade pesto if possible, as it elevates the dish beyond store-bought versions.

Another tip I found useful is to sauté the cherry tomatoes lightly before mixing them with the pasta. This enhances their sweetness and brings even more brightness to the final plate. It’s a simple twist that makes your meal feel gourmet!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Quick and easy prep for busy weeknights
Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking the bow tie pasta to the ideal consistency is essential for the perfect dish. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta should have a slight firmness when bitten. Keep an eye on the pot and follow the package instructions closely, usually about 8-10 minutes. A good tip is to taste a piece a minute or two before the suggested time. If it’s slightly too soft, it can lead to a mushy final dish, which no one wants!

Once the pasta is cooked, be sure to reserve that cup of pasta water! This starchy liquid is a versatile tool for adjusting the final sauce’s consistency, ensuring your dish has a lovely sheen and binding power, even with store-bought pesto. Just add a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess without sacrificing the fresh taste of the other ingredients.

Elevating the Flavor

The cherry tomatoes play a crucial role in this dish, contributing both sweetness and acidity, which balance the richness of the pesto. Look for ripe tomatoes, as they will burst with flavor upon cooking. Sauté them on medium heat until they soften and release their juices; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during this step for a subtle heat that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Using fresh basil as a garnish not only elevates the visual appeal of your dish but also enhances the aromatic qualities of the meal. A light chiffonade of basil leaves can add texture and flavor complexity. Additionally, if you’re in a pinch or want to swap ingredients, spinach or arugula can serve as an alternative to fresh basil, offering a different yet delightful taste profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

250g bow tie pasta
200g cherry tomatoes, halved
100g pesto (homemade or store-bought)
30g grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to make this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Stir in the pesto and mix well, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Serve

Once everything is well combined, serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your homemade Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of lemon juice when serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you anticipate leftovers, store your pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pan to help the pasta regain its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as this can result in overcooked, rubbery pasta. Instead, warm it up on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the pesto and cherry tomatoes in advance and mix them with the cooked pasta just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising the freshness. You can even cook the pasta a day prior, simply refrigerate it and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking until you’re ready to sauté with the tomatoes and pesto.

Serving Suggestions

This Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some freshly grilled vegetables for a hearty lunch or dinner. For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Not only does this enhance the nutritional value, but it transforms your dish into something that's filling and satisfying for heartier appetites.

Feel free to play around with the toppings as well. Instead of Parmesan, try crumbling some goat cheese on top for a tangy twist or sprinkle with pine nuts for added crunch. Finishing the dish with a drizzle of herb-infused oil can also impart an elegant touch, perfect for impressing guests during a summer gathering!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative and use vegan pesto to keep it plant-based.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.