Pesto Genovese with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes

Explore the rich flavors of Italy with this Pesto Genovese featuring fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, paired with sweet, tangy cherry tomatoes. With vibrant pesto and tomatoes that pop in your mouth, this dish is a feast for the senses. It is straightforward to prepare, and the combination of homemade pesto with warm, blistered tomatoes takes pasta to the next level.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basil leaves
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Blend until the mixture is coarsely ground.
2. Continue to blend while gradually adding olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth pesto.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add cherry tomatoes. Cook until they begin to burst, releasing their juices.
4. Boil pasta as per the package directions, saving a cup of the water used to cook the pasta.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with pesto in a large bowl. Add reserved pasta water little by little to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Top the pasta with blistered cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan before serving.

Keywords: Italian Cuisine, Pasta, Tomatoes, Pesto Genovese, Cherry Tomatoes

Spice Rack: Salt, Black Pepper

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