Spaghetti With Pesto and Cherry Tomato Salad

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 2
Spaghetti with Pesto and Cherry Tomato Salad - A Perfect Summer Meal
in Pasta

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Ready In

20 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
2 garlic cloves , cut in half
2 tablespoons pine nuts , toasted
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 1/2 pints cherry tomatoes ( about 3 1/2 cups ) or 1 1/2 pints yellow cherry tomatoes , each cut in half ( about 3 1/2 cups )
1/2 small red onion , thinly sliced ( about 1/2 cup )
1/3 cup fresh basil leaf , cut into strips
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
salt
1 package thin spaghetti
basil , for garnish

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
605
Sugar
8g
Fat
43g
Spaghetti with Pesto and Cherry Tomato Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for any summer evening. The fresh basil and cherry tomatoes give this dish a light, bright, and refreshing flavor while the spaghetti provides a filling base. The dish is dressed with a traditional pesto sauce that is packed with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used with different pasta shapes or even as a spread. The cherry tomato salad is a perfect side dish for the spaghetti. It is simple to prepare and adds a pop of color and flavor to the meal. Together, the spaghetti and cherry tomato salad create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Instructions

1.Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2.While the spaghetti cooks, prepare the pesto by combining the basil, garlic, pine nuts, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
3.With the motor running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Continue to blend until the pesto is smooth.
4.Add the parmesan cheese and pulse until the cheese is incorporated.
5.Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot. Add the pesto and toss to coat the spaghetti.
6.To prepare the cherry tomato salad, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil strips in a large bowl.
7.In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
8.Drizzle the dressing over the tomato salad and toss to coat.
9.Serve the spaghetti with the cherry tomato salad on the side. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

PROS

This recipe is a light and refreshing summer meal that is quick and easy to prepare.

The spaghetti with pesto is packed with fresh basil flavor, while the cherry tomato salad adds a bright and colorful pop of flavor.

This meal is perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a quick weeknight supper.

CONS

Some people may find that the pesto is too strong, pungent or garlicky.
Consider reducing the amount of garlic to taste.

This meal does not have a lot of protein and could benefit from adding some grilled chicken or shrimp.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This recipe is a great source of vitamins and minerals. Basil is high in vitamin K and iron, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium.
The olive oil used in this recipe is a healthy fat that has been linked to lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health.

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