Delicious Pesto and Pasta Recipe Easy for Busy Weeknights

If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, this pesto and pasta recipe easy is perfect for busy weeknights. Not onl……

If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, this pesto and pasta recipe easy is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also packs a punch with its fresh and vibrant ingredients. Below is a comprehensive guide to creating this delightful dish, ensuring you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen.

### Ingredients

To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **Pasta**: 8 ounces of your favorite pasta. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work great.

- **Pesto Sauce**: 1/2 cup of store-bought or homemade pesto. If you prefer to make your own, you'll need fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.

- **Cherry Tomatoes**: 1 cup, halved. These add a burst of sweetness and color.

- **Parmesan Cheese**: Freshly grated, for garnishing.

- **Olive Oil**: 2 tablespoons.

- **Salt and Pepper**: To taste.

- **Optional Add-ins**: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

### Instructions

1. **Cook the Pasta**: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. **Prepare the Pesto (if making homemade)**: While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt to taste.

3. **Combine Pasta and Pesto**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir in the pesto sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto.

4. **Add Cherry Tomatoes**: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and gently toss to combine. The heat from the pasta will slightly soften the tomatoes, releasing their juices and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

5. **Season and Garnish**: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, you can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to make the dish more substantial.

### Tips for the Best Pesto and Pasta

- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in the flavor of the pesto.

- **Don't Overcook the Pasta**: Al dente pasta has a firm texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy pesto sauce.

- **Customize Your Dish**: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables to this recipe. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini can elevate the dish.

### Why This Recipe Works

This pesto and pasta recipe easy is a fantastic choice for several reasons. Firstly, it's incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you don't have much time to cook. Secondly, the combination of pesto and pasta is a classic that never fails to impress. The rich, herbaceous flavor of the pesto pairs beautifully with the tender pasta, while the cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Moreover, this recipe is highly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry. Whether you're a vegetarian, a meat-lover, or someone who enjoys seafood, this dish can be customized to meet your needs.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, this pesto and pasta recipe easy is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. So, the next time you're pressed for time but still want to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!