Sweet cherry tomatoes take center stage in this easy pasta dish, dressed with a tasty tomato pesto dressing. Use either fresh or roasted tomatoes.

Tomato-Basil Pesto Pasta with Roasted Chicken

For the pesto, in a food processor combine 1 cup tomatoes, basil, 1/3 cup almonds, olive oil, garlic, and if desired, nutritional yeast. Process ingredients until smooth. Add remaining almonds and pulse the food processor until almonds are coarsely chopped for a chunky texture. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, chicken and remaining tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, if desired, and garnish with basil.

*Roasted tomato variation: Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 9 Roma tomatoes, halved, on sheet and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 1 hour, then chop and use in place of fresh tomatoes in recipe.