Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Vital & Delicious

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes because it's such a refreshing and vibrant dish. The combination of al dente pasta with aromatic basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a quick and easy recipe that I can whip up on busy weeknights, yet it feels special enough for gatherings. With just a few fresh ingredients, this dish can elevate your dinner table and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:05:36.538Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I realized how well the flavors meld together. The freshness of basil in the pesto complements the juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a beautiful harmony. I used homemade pesto for an extra kick, but store-bought works well too in a pinch. The key is to toss everything together while the pasta is still warm, which helps the flavors permeate the pasta.

This meal is perfect for both a quick dinner or a pasta salad to enjoy later. I often add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling, but it's wonderful just as is. Don't forget to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The delightful combination of fresh basil and sweet cherry tomatoes
Quick preparation means you can enjoy a delicious meal in under 30 minutes
Versatile dish that can be served warm or as a cold pasta salad

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients can significantly influence the overall taste of your Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes. Opt for fresh basil pesto rather than store-bought for a more vibrant flavor. If you can’t find fresh, consider making your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth. Choosing ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes is also essential; look for those that are brightly colored and slightly firm to ensure they burst beautifully when combined with the pasta.

Parmesan cheese plays a key role in adding a rich, nutty flavor to this dish. For the best results, grate your cheese fresh rather than using pre-packaged varieties, which can be drier and less flavorful. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan can be excellent substitutes that maintain the savory edge of the dish.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

Cooking pasta properly is crucial for achieving the right texture. For bow tie pasta, aim for 'al dente', which means it should be firm when bitten. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes in boiling, salted water. Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking. To ensure even cooking, do not overcrowd the pot; this allows the pasta to move freely, cooking uniformly.

When tossing the pasta with the pesto and tomatoes, I recommend doing this while the pasta is still warm. The heat helps the pesto cling to the pasta and integrates the flavors beautifully. If you notice the sauce appears too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it, achieving a glossy finish without diluting the flavors.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Add the warm pasta to the bowl and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes!

Pro Tips

For a little extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the dish or incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.

Storing and Making Ahead

If you plan to make Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes ahead of time, preparing the pasta and the sauce separately is the best approach. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pesto can also be stored separately; just cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta on low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad. If you decide to serve it this way, allow the pasta to cool completely before tossing it with the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour for the flavors to meld together. This makes it a great option for picnics or potlucks!

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a more protein-packed version of Bow Tie Pasta, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the dish. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also provide a satisfying contrast to the lightness of the pasta and vegetables. Simply cook your protein of choice and toss it in with the pasta before serving.

To elevate the flavor profile, feel free to include additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even arugula for a peppery kick. These can be folded in just before serving. Experimenting with different nuts, such as walnuts or cashews blended into the pesto, can also introduce a new layer of texture and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delivers delicious flavor.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap the bow tie pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative.

→ Can this pasta be served cold?

Yes, this dish makes a fantastic cold pasta salad. Just let it cool before serving!

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.