Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. This pasta recipe is perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, showcasing fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. The basil pesto adds a fragrant touch, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a family meal, this dish stands out for its simplicity and vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil elevates the flavors, giving you a taste of summer any time of year.
• Customizable: Feel free to add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch or adjust the pesto to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this pasta is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
• Healthier Option: Packed with fresh vegetables and minimal added fats, it’s a wholesome dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on making Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, gather your essential tools for easy cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients quickly while retaining their freshness.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta effectively while reserving some cooking liquid for the sauce.

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: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 30 seconds until they start to soften.
3. Add cooked pasta and basil pesto to the skillet.
4. Stir well to coat the pasta with pesto and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Final Touches

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or reserved pasta liquid if needed.
2. Gently fold in ciliegene mozzarella until well-distributed.
3. Add fresh basil just before removing from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among bowls.
2. Sprinkle fresh shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano on top if desired.
3. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately.

This Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto recipe will quickly become one of your favorites! Enjoy every bite!

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

Serving Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil and Parsley: Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley sprigs for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chili Flakes: Sprinkle some chili flakes on top for an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Salad: Pair with a light arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Cheese Enhancements

• Extra Mozzarella: Add more ciliegene mozzarella on top for creaminess.
• Parmesan Crisps: Serve with homemade Parmesan crisps for added texture and flavor.

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

Perfecting your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto can enhance its taste and presentation. Here are some useful tips.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always cook the orecchiette until just al dente. This helps retain its shape and texture when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella will significantly improve the dish’s flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and pesto to suit your preferences.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta cooking liquid handy. It can help create a creamier sauce when mixed in later.
• Experiment with Nuts: Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts can give an enjoyable crunch and depth to the dish.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh basil sprigs or shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano to elevate the dish’s presentation.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Orecchiette can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: A classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar complements the pasta beautifully.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Serve a platter of seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful addition.
3. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover pesto sauce from the plate.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture that balances the creamy pasta.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese provides protein and freshness.
6. Lemon-Dressed Greens: A simple side salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy orecchiette. Remember to cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.

• Not seasoning the water: A well-seasoned pot of boiling water helps flavor the pasta. Always add a generous amount of kosher salt to the water before adding the orecchiette.

• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This liquid is crucial for creating a saucy consistency. Always save some before draining the pasta in case you need to adjust the sauce.

• Adding mozzarella too early: If you add the cheese too soon, it may melt too much and lose its texture. Wait until after mixing in the pesto before adding the mozzarella.

• Forgetting about fresh herbs: Fresh basil enhances flavor significantly. Add it at the end to keep its vibrant taste and aroma.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Use a freezer-safe container or vacuum-seal bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure all air is removed from containers or bags.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover lightly. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enhance my Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts can elevate this dish’s flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses or additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While dried basil can work in a pinch, using fresh basil truly enhances the taste of your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto. Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor profile.

What type of pesto works best?

Traditional basil pesto is ideal; however, feel free to try sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist on flavors that pairs well with cherry tomatoes.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto holds well in storage and can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of flavors makes it perfect for summer meals or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins! Enjoy making this delightful dish that brings freshness and joy to any table.

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Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

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Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a vibrant pasta dish that captures the essence of summer on your plate. This delightful recipe combines tender orecchiette pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a fragrant basil pesto. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of fresh flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to prepare and customizable, this dish invites you to get creative with your favorite seasonal ingredients.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1/2 lb. ciliegene mozzarella
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the orecchiette in salted boiling water until al dente, about 9 minutes. Reserve some cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté cherry tomatoes for 30 seconds until slightly softened.
3. Add cooked pasta and basil pesto to the skillet, stirring well for one minute.
4. Gently fold in ciliegene mozzarella and fresh basil just before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider mixing in toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Adjust seasoning as needed by tasting throughout the cooking process. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad.