Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that embodies the flavors of summer. This recipe showcases the vibrant taste of cherry tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil pesto. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this pasta dish is both quick to prepare and satisfying. Its fresh ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion, from family meals to friendly get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cherry tomatoes and basil pesto provides a burst of flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various proteins or can be served on its own.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or additional veggies for extra texture and nutrition.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: This recipe serves four, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process, ensuring a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing plenty of space for it to cook evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the cherry tomatoes and combining the ingredients without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while retaining some cooking water for adjusting sauce consistency.
• Wooden spoon: Great for gently tossing the ingredients without damaging the delicate mozzarella.

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

For the Toppings

• 1/2 lb. ciliegene (small balls) mozzarella
• 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—roughly 2 minutes less than package instructions suggest.
4. Drain pasta using a colander, 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 start to soften.
3. Incorporate cooked pasta into the skillet along with basil pesto.
4. Cook for an additional minute, stirring well to coat the pasta with pesto.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional pesto as desired.
2. Gently fold in mozzarella balls until combined; allow heat from pasta to slightly melt them.
3. Add fresh basil leaves and remove from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide cooked pasta among bowls.
2. Sprinkle each serving with fresh shavings of Parmigiano if using.
3. Finish by cracking fresh black pepper over top before serving.

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

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

Serving Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal atmosphere at the table.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the pasta into individual bowls for a more refined presentation. Top each serving with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for added appeal.

With Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add extra fresh basil leaves as a garnish. This enhances the dish’s freshness and brings vibrant color to your plate.

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

Perfecting this recipe takes just a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to help you create an exceptional dish.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your orecchiette retains its shape and texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some of the cooking liquid aside; it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency when combining with pesto.
• Use quality ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality basil pesto will greatly enhance the flavors of your dish.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper during cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Finish off heat: Add mozzarella and fresh basil after removing from heat to maintain their delicate textures and flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your orecchiette can complement the meal nicely. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic companion, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with pasta dishes.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pesto and mozzarella.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables bring smoky notes that enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil work harmoniously together, echoing flavors found in your main dish.

5. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a tender yet crisp side that complements the pasta beautifully.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a lighter option, serve spiralized 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 important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using too much water: When boiling pasta, avoid using an excessive amount of water. This can dilute the flavor. Use just enough water to cover the pasta and season it well with salt.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the orecchiette for too long will result in a mushy texture. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue cooking after being combined with other ingredients.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta cooking liquid can lead to a dry dish. This starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Omitting fresh basil will diminish the dish’s aroma and flavor. Always add freshly chopped basil right before serving for maximum impact.
• Ignoring taste adjustments: Not tasting your dish before serving can result in a bland meal. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more pesto as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orecchiette?

Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with any small pasta shape like penne or fusilli. The cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I make homemade basil pesto?

To make homemade basil pesto, blend fresh basil leaves with olive oil, garlic, pine nuts or walnuts, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Adjust ingredients to taste.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and mix it with cherry tomatoes and pesto ahead of time. Just store it separately from the mozzarella until you’re ready to serve.

What are some variations for this recipe?

You can customize Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto by adding grilled chicken or vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage guidelines provided above.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is not only delicious but also versatile. With its bright flavors and fresh ingredients, it makes an appealing meal for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies!