Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful summer dish that brings the taste of fresh ingredients to your table. This recipe is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. The combination of cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil pesto creates a vibrant and flavorful pasta that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm as a main course or chill it for a refreshing pasta salad.
• Kid-Friendly Option: The playful shape of orecchiette combined with melty mozzarella makes this dish appealing to kids.

Tools and Preparation

To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently and ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the cherry tomatoes and combining all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta 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
• fresh basil

Optional Garnish

• 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 the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes or about 2 minutes less than package instructions suggest.
4. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup or more of the pasta cooking liquid. Do not rinse.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 30 seconds until they begin to soften.
3. Add the drained pasta and basil pesto to the skillet.
4. Cook for an additional minute, stirring gently to coat all pasta with pesto.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or reserved pasta liquid if needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Stir in the ciliegene mozzarella until evenly distributed.
2. Add fresh basil leaves just before removing from heat.
3. Divide pasta among bowls and sprinkle each serving with shavings of Parmigiano if desired.
4. Finish by cracking fresh black pepper over each bowl before serving.

Enjoy this delightful Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto at your next meal!

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

Serving Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto can be a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and can be presented in various ways to enhance its flavor and visual appeal.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the pasta directly from the skillet. This communal approach invites everyone to help themselves, making mealtime more enjoyable.

Individual Bowls

• Divide the pasta into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. Top each bowl with fresh basil and mozzarella to impress your guests.

Garnished Plates

• Plate the pasta elegantly and garnish with additional basil pesto and cracked black pepper for a gourmet touch.

Accompanying Bread

• Pair your orecchiette with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks on the side for dipping. This adds texture and complements the dish beautifully.

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

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your Orecchiette shines.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow cooking times closely. Undercook slightly as the pasta will continue cooking when combined with other ingredients.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some of the cooking liquid; it helps create a creamier sauce when mixing.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil instead of dried for a vibrant flavor that can’t be matched.
• Experiment with Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and depth to your dish.

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

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta while adding freshness.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide color and nutrition alongside your dish.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring out the flavors in your orecchiette while being easy to prepare.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   The slight char from grilling asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the pasta well.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offer a great starter before diving into your main dish.

7. Chickpea Salad
   Protein-packed chickpeas mixed with herbs give a nutritious boost that pairs well with orecchiette.

8. Zucchini Noodles
   For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil adds an interesting twist while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta can be tricky, especially when making a dish like Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking pasta: Many cooks leave the pasta in the water too long. Always cook it until al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
• Not reserving cooking liquid: Forgetting to save some pasta water can lead to a dry dish. This starchy liquid helps create a creamy sauce that improves texture.
• Skipping seasoning the water: If you don’t season the boiling water, your pasta might taste bland. Use kosher salt generously to enhance flavor right from the start.
• Rushing the sauce: Cooking the vegetables too quickly can result in undercooked tomatoes. Allow them to soften slightly before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring taste adjustments: Not tasting your dish before serving can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always adjust with salt, pepper, or extra pesto as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the pasta cool fully before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion out servings for easy defrosting.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water for moisture.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Stir halfway for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary. Stir frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While orecchiette is traditional, any short pasta can work well in this recipe.

What can I substitute for basil pesto?

You can use spinach or arugula pesto for a different flavor profile while keeping it fresh and vibrant.

How do I store leftover Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for later use.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Certainly! Substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese and ensure your pesto is dairy-free.

What are good additions to this recipe?

Consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch or more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends—give it a try!