Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt, to taste; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes because it's a vibrant and refreshing dish that never fails to impress. The combination of al dente pasta, fragrant pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a delightful explosion of flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or served up at a gathering. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:48:53.073Z

Creating Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes was an experiment that turned into a household favorite. I combined fresh ingredients with a classic Italian touch, and the result was better than I anticipated! The creamy texture of the pesto contrasts beautifully with the juicy pop of the cherry tomatoes, creating a balanced dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

What I discovered is that using freshly made pesto elevates the entire experience. Store-bought versions just don’t deliver the same burst of flavor. I recommend preparing your own at home with basil, garlic, and pine nuts for a truly delightful twist on this pasta dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh basil pesto brings vibrant flavors to every bite.
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color.
It's quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is the fresh basil pesto, which is not only a flavor powerhouse but also quite versatile. Using fresh basil is essential for achieving that vibrant green color and aromatic scent. I recommend choosing basil that appears bright and healthy, avoiding any that have wilting leaves. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with spinach or arugula, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Pine nuts are traditionally used in pesto, providing a rich, buttery flavor. If you’re in a pinch or have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or walnuts can be good alternatives. Just remember to toast them lightly before adding to the pesto for an enhanced flavor. Always pulse until the mixture is just combined; over-processing can lead to a paste rather than a chunkier texture that makes pesto so delightful.

Perfecting the Pesto

When preparing the pesto, adjusting the olive oil amount is a matter of personal preference; for a creamier consistency, add more oil, but do so gradually. I recommend keeping the food processor running while you stream in the oil, ensuring a smooth emulsion. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, as it significantly contributes to the overall taste of the dish.

For a zesty twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto just before serving; this not only brightens the flavors but also helps preserve the green color. Be mindful of the salt level, especially if you’re using salted Parmesan cheese. Start with a pinch, taste, and adjust accordingly so as not to overpower the fresh basil.

Serving Suggestions

Bow tie pasta with pesto and cherry tomatoes is an incredibly versatile dish. To elevate it further, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for extra protein and texture. Serving this dish warm allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it an excellent option for meal prep or picnics.

For presentation, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a hefty sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also add an exciting flavor contrast. If you're planning to serve it at a gathering or family dinner, pairing this pasta with a light salad and a crisp white wine completes the meal perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt, to taste

For the Pesto

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, scraping down the sides. With the processor running, add the olive oil in a steady stream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently until everything is well coated. If the mixture seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, try roasting the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the pasta. This enhances their sweetness and adds a delightful depth to the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you make it in advance, storing it properly is crucial. Keep the pesto and pasta separate until you're ready to serve. Store the pesto in an airtight container, topped with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent it from browning, and it can last in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cooked pasta can also be refrigerated but should be eaten within three days for the best texture.

If you decide to freeze the pesto, it can last for about three months. I recommend freezing it in ice cube trays; this allows you to thaw just the amount you need for quick weeknight dinners. Just remember to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!

Common Troubleshooting

If your pesto turns out too thick or grainy, it might be because the nuts were over-processed or you didn't add enough oil. Simply add a bit more olive oil to smooth it out and achieve the desired consistency. If it’s too oily, a little extra Parmesan can help balance out the flavors with its natural thickness.

As for the pasta, al dente is the ideal texture, as overcooking can lead to a mushy dish. Be sure to taste the pasta about 2 minutes before the package's indicated cooking time. It should have a slight bite to it. If you find your pasta is overcooked, tossing it in a skillet with a splash of olive oil can help revive it a bit, giving it some texture back.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients in this recipe! Adding a handful of baby spinach or arugula to the pesto not only increases the nutrient content but also adds a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your pesto while blending.

For a delightful twist, substitute the cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for an intense sweetness and chewiness. Additionally, think about incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a fresh summer version of this dish. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance out the new ingredients, and you’ll have a beautiful array of flavors to enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, while homemade pesto is preferred for its fresh flavor, store-bought pesto can work in a pinch.

→ What can I substitute for pine nuts?

You can use walnuts or sunflower seeds as a substitute for pine nuts if needed.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative, and ensure your pesto is dairy-free.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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