One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A quick one-pot pasta dinner with vibrant garlic basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 22 minutes blends spaghetti, 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 550 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 spaghetti
- 2 cups, halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp, divided salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 5 cups water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 tsp salt. Pulse while slowly drizzling in 1/3 cup olive oil until a smooth pesto forms. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a large deep skillet or pot, add 12 oz spaghetti, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 5 cups water, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered for 9-11 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente and water is mostly absorbed.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the prepared pesto along with 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Season with 1/2 tsp black pepper and additional salt to taste.
- Step 5: Toss well to coat the pasta and tomatoes evenly with the pesto sauce. Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan or basil leaves if desired.
Frequently asked questions
How long does One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes take to make?
Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and 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 Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and 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 Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and 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 Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and 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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