One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 550 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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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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