Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes for a quick and delightful meal. The combination of fresh basil pesto with juicy cherry tomatoes creates a vibrant dish that never fails to impress. It comes together in just 30 minutes and is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can lead to amazing flavors. Whether for a weekday dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta is always a hit, and I find it satisfies everyone's palate beautifully.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:33:37.204Z

When I first made this Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes, I was amazed by how quickly a delicious dish could come together. The fresh basil and garlic in the pesto create a beautiful aroma that fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in right away. Pairing the pasta with sweet cherry tomatoes not only adds flavor but also brightens up the dish.

One tip I've learned is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of that starchy water to the sauce helps to create a silky texture that clings to each bow tie perfectly. I also like to finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan, which elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of flavor.
Colorful cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness.
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

The Magic of Fresh Pesto

Using fresh basil for your pesto is key to achieving that vibrant, aromatic flavor that elevates this dish. Make sure to rinse the basil leaves gently and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the pesto's texture. If you're in a pinch, you can use store-bought pesto, but the freshness of homemade will truly enhance the overall taste of the pasta.

When blending the pesto, it’s important to add the olive oil gradually while the processor runs. This technique helps emulsify the oil with the basil, garlic, and Parmesan, yielding a smooth and glossy sauce. If your pesto feels too thick, thin it with a splash of the reserved pasta water. This not only adjusts the consistency but reinforces the dish’s overall flavor.

Perfecting Your Pasta

To achieve that perfect al dente texture, follow the package instructions closely, but also taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends. You want it to have a firm bite; overcooking can lead to a mushy pasta that won't hold up well with the pesto and tomatoes. Also, make sure to add salt to the boiling water—this is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself.

If you find yourself with leftover cooked pasta, it can easily be used in salads or baked dishes. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to use, simply toss it in a pan with a bit of olive oil to reheat and revive its texture before mixing it with your pesto.

Delicious Variations

This bow tie pasta dish serves as a great base for many variations. For an extra protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or cooked shrimp. Simply toss them in when combining the pasta with the pesto and tomatoes for an effortlessly hearty meal. You could also incorporate vegetables like spinach or arugula for additional color and nutrition.

If you're looking to add a tangy flair, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon juice into the pesto. This will brighten the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich basil and Parmesan. Don't hesitate to mix and match based on what you have available in your pantry; pasta is incredibly adaptable!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the dish:

Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped before you begin cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your meal:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix with Cherry Tomatoes

In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes. If necessary, add reserved pasta water a bit at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with pine nuts and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your vibrant creation!

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables to the pasta before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover bow tie pasta with pesto, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. I recommend storing the pasta and the pesto separately if possible, as this helps maintain the freshness of both components. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more pasta water to help restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pesto in an ice cube tray and use it as needed, adding it directly to warm pasta. If the pasta is frozen, it should be consumed within a month for the best flavor. To reheat frozen pasta, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm it up in a skillet, adding a little water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Garnishing Ideas

Garnishing your bow tie pasta can elevate its presentation. I love to sprinkle a handful of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the softer textures of the pasta and tomatoes. You could also consider adding fresh basil leaves, either torn or whole, for an appealing pop of color.

Another option for garnish is grated lemon zest. Just a small pinch can provide a refreshing lift to the dish. If you want a spicy kick, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can also accentuate the flavors wonderfully. These little touches can transform a simple dish into a gorgeous feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Scaling Up the Recipe

If you're planning to make this dish for a larger gathering, it's quite easy to scale up the recipe. Simply double or triple the ingredients, ensuring to maintain the same cooking techniques. For a larger batch of pesto, you can blend it in two batches rather than overloading your food processor; this keeps the consistency just right.

When serving, consider setting up a pasta station where guests can customize their plates. Set out bowls of extra toppings like grated cheese, fresh herbs, and various proteins to let everyone create their ideal bowl of pasta. This interactive element can make for a fun dining experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time and still provide great flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and avoid using any animal-based ingredients.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

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