One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A vibrant, fragrant basil pesto pasta cooked in one pot with sweet cherry tomatoes for an easy and flavor-packed dinner. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends fettuccine pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, packed fresh basil leaves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 530 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups, halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 3 garlic cloves, and 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Step 2: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth pesto. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 3: In a large deep skillet or pot, combine 12 oz fettuccine pasta, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 4 cups vegetable broth.
- Step 4: Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in prepared basil pesto until pasta is evenly coated and glossy. Serve warm.
Frequently asked questions
How long does One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is One-Pot Basil Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
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