Ingredients

• Pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne) - 400 grams
• Fresh basil leaves - 2 cups
• Pine nuts - ¼ cup
• Parmesan cheese, grated - ½ cup
• Garlic cloves - 2
• Olive oil - ½ cup
• Cherry tomatoes, halved - 250 grams
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Instructions

1. 1.

   Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. 2.

   In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until finely chopped.

3. 3.

   While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. 4.

   In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto, tossing to coat evenly.

5. 5.

   Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently mix to distribute throughout the pasta.

6. 6.

   Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.