Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful summer dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. This pasta recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil pesto creates a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s an easy dish to whip up, making it a favorite among busy home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil enhances the dish’s vibrant taste.
• Versatile: Serve it warm as a main course or chilled as a pasta salad; this recipe adapts perfectly to your needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and colorful presentation, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, this pasta is a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, having the right tools on hand will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the cherry tomatoes and mixing everything together seamlessly.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently while retaining some cooking liquid for sauce consistency.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta
• kosher salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 lb. (or more) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto, plus more to taste
• 1/2 lb. ciliegene (small balls) mozzarella

For Garnish

• fresh basil
• shaving of Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
• fresh cracked black pepper

How to Make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season well with kosher salt.
1. Add the orecchiette pasta.
2. Cook till al dente, about 9 minutes or about 2 minutes less than what package instructions suggest.
3. Drain pasta, reserving a cup or more of the pasta cooking liquid. Do not rinse.

Step 2: Sauté Tomatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
1. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for just 30 seconds.
2. Add the drained pasta and basil pesto to the skillet.
3. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to coat pasta with the pesto.

Step 3: Final Touches

1. Taste your mixture; adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional pesto if desired.
2. Incorporate the ciliegene mozzarella gently into the mix.
3. Stir in fresh basil just before removing from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide pasta among bowls.
2. Sprinkle each serving with fresh shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano if using.
3. Crack fresh black pepper over top before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto!

How to Serve Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Use large bowls to serve the pasta family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves and share.

Elegant Plating

• For a more refined presentation, plate individual servings. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for added flair.

Add Toasted Nuts

• Consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Pair with Wine

• Serve with a chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the freshness of the dish.

How to Perfect Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

To make your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto even better, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella will elevate the flavors of this dish significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You may want to adjust salt, pepper, or pesto based on your preference.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the orecchiette until just al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Experiment with Pesto: Feel free to try different types of pesto or add more if you love that herby flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach for additional nutrition and color.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after preparing for optimal flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can enhance your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the pasta.
2. Caprese Salad: A simple mix of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil mirrors the pasta’s flavors while adding freshness.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add depth to your meal and bring in smoky notes.
4. Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a peppery contrast to the creamy pasta.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the dish’s rich flavors.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta longer than recommended can lead to mushy orecchiette. Always aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
• Not Salting the Water: Failing to salt your boiling water can result in bland pasta. Make sure to season it generously; this is where the pasta absorbs flavor.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving some pasta cooking liquid means missing out on a chance to create a creamy sauce. A couple of tablespoons can enhance the dish’s texture.
• Rinsing the Pasta: Rinsing your orecchiette washes away the starch that helps sauces cling. Drain without rinsing to keep that essential starch intact.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar tomatoes or mozzarella can dull the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep in the main compartment, not in the door.

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread pasta on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto vegan?

You can make this dish vegan by omitting mozzarella and using a plant-based pesto. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if desired.

What can I substitute for basil pesto?

If you don’t have basil pesto, you can use sun-dried tomato pesto or make a homemade version using spinach or arugula instead of basil.

How do I enhance the flavor of Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Adding toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts gives extra texture and flavor. You could also include garlic or chili flakes for added depth.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a unique taste profile.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!

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Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, a summer delight that brings together the best of fresh ingredients. This easy-to-make pasta dish combines al dente orecchiette with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil pesto, creating a colorful and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this versatile recipe can be served warm or chilled as a pasta salad. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that impresses both family and friends while packing in nutrition from fresh vegetables and healthy fats.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta
• Kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 lb. ciliegene mozzarella
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
• Fresh cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook orecchiette until al dente (about 9 minutes). Drain, reserving some cooking liquid.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and sauté cherry tomatoes for 30 seconds.
3. Add drained pasta and basil pesto to the skillet; stir to coat for 1 minute.
4. Gently mix in ciliegene mozzarella and fresh basil before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 30mg