Bright, fresh, and naturally gluten-free, this Cherry Tomatoes with Pesto recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Juicy cherry tomatoes are tossed in a vibrant homemade pesto made with fragrant basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, gluten-free Parmesan cheese, and a hint of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick. With only 15 minutes of prep, this no-cook recipe is ideal as a healthy side dish, an elegant appetizer, or even a light midday snack. Bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors and finished with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, this dish is a mouthwatering celebration of simplicity and wholesome ingredients. Serve it right away or let the flavors meld in the refrigerator—it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing favorite for summer gatherings and beyond.
Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut each tomato in half and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic clove, and lemon juice. Pulse until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
Slowly drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil into the food processor while blending on low speed. Continue blending until the pesto has a smooth and spreadable consistency. Scrape down the sides of the container as needed.
Season the pesto with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Blend for a few extra seconds to incorporate the seasoning.
Spoon the pesto over the cherry tomatoes in the mixing bowl. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss the tomatoes until they are evenly coated with the pesto.
Transfer the pesto-coated tomatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkling of Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Enjoy this gluten-free delight as a side dish, appetizer, or even a simple snack.
Calories |
1020 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 93.6 g | 120% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.1 g | 86% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 32 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 1821 mg | 79% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.4 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.3 g | ||
| Protein | 25.1 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 594 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 5.5 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1612 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.