Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g bow tie pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup basil pesto; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Fast Feast

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes for a quick meal that bursts with flavor. The bright, fresh taste of the basil pesto combined with juicy cherry tomatoes creates a delightful balance. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a small gathering with friends. Plus, it's ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to option when I need something delicious yet simple!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:45:36.545Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes, I was amazed at how quickly and easily it came together. I could hardly believe how just a few simple ingredients could create such incredible depth of flavor. The key, I've found, is to use fresh ingredients. Every bite is a vibrant explosion of taste that makes me want to whip this dish up on repeat.

One detail that has transformed my experience with this dish is letting the pasta cool slightly before tossing it with the pesto. Allowing it to cool just a bit helps the sauce adhere better, creating a luxurious coat of flavor on every bow tie. I also love adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top for an extra touch of creaminess.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The fresh basil pesto elevates the taste of the pasta and tomatoes.
It's quick and simple, perfect for busy weeknights.
You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

The Role of Pesto

Basil pesto plays a pivotal role in this dish, serving as a flavor powerhouse that complements the bow tie pasta and cherry tomatoes. Made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, pesto adds a rich, aromatic quality that elevates this simple meal. For the best flavor, consider using homemade pesto if you have the time; store-bought varieties can be a convenient substitute, but may lack the vibrant freshness.

When tossing the pasta with pesto, ensure that the pasta is still warm; this helps the sauce adhere better and enhances the overall flavor experience. Aim for a glossy coating rather than an overwhelming amount of sauce, as you want each bow tie to be enriched without becoming soggy or overly oily.

Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Achieving the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks—taste it a minute or two before the package suggests to ensure it’s not overcooked. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite but cooked through. If your pasta is slightly undercooked, fear not; it will continue to cook when combined with the hot cherry tomatoes and pesto, avoiding a mushy outcome.

Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining! This starchy water can be added back to the final dish if you find it too dry or want to create a creamier texture. Adding a splash of this water at the end can help the pesto cling better to the pasta.

Serving and Variations

Serving Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is all about presentation. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch. Pairing the dish with crusty bread can create a satisfying meal that balances the textures beautifully.

For a heartier version, think about adding proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. If you're looking to enhance the nutritional value, feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach or zucchini. These variations not only boost the dish's nutritional content but also create an exciting twist that's perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g bow tie pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup basil pesto
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta, and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider roasting the cherry tomatoes before mixing them with the pasta. This will bring out their natural sweetness.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, creating an even tastier dish the next day. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb the pesto over time, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil when reheating to restore some moisture.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat rather than a microwave to maintain the texture of the pasta. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the dish and ensure it warms evenly without drying out.

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the bow tie pasta for gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or quinoa. Many brands now offer delicious alternatives that will work just as well in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy this flavorful meal without compromising dietary needs.

For a vegan version, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative, or skip the cheese altogether. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic addition that can impart a cheesy flavor and is also a great source of vitamins.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. To serve a larger group, simply double or triple the ingredients and adjust your cooking vessel accordingly. It’s also worth noting that, when increasing quantities, make sure to routinely taste the dish as you go, especially concerning the salt and pepper levels, as these may need adjustment.

For smaller portions, the recipe can be halved without any issues. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for the pasta, so always rely on the texture rather than the clock to guide you.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great for this recipe, saving you time.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra freshness and nutrition.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the pasta and pesto ahead and combine them just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.