Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer to your table. This easy-to-make pasta recipe is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even a special occasion. The combination of fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant basil pesto makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. You’ll find that this dish stands out for its freshness and simplicity, making it a go-to recipe all year round.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil enhances the flavor and nutrition of the meal.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding proteins or other vegetables to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and delicious combination of flavors, this pasta is sure to impress friends and family alike.
- Healthy Option: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that feels like comfort food.
Tools and Preparation
To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta efficiently while allowing enough space.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the tomatoes and combining the ingredients without overcrowding.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta properly while reserving some cooking liquid for added sauce if needed.
Ingredients
Inspired by a recipe we made at Fork every summer as soon as the Branch Creek tomatoes began arriving at the restaurant. Notes: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts would be a nice addition here.
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 Garnish
- 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
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Season well with kosher salt.
- Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes or about 2 minutes less than package instructions suggest.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving at least one cup of the cooking liquid. Do not rinse.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 30 seconds until they start to soften.
- Stir in the drained pasta along with 2 tablespoons of basil pesto.
- Cook for an additional minute while stirring to coat the pasta evenly with pesto.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or reserved pasta cooking liquid if needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add ciliegene mozzarella to the skillet and stir gently to combine.
- Toss in fresh basil leaves before removing from heat.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls.
- Sprinkle each bowl with shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano if desired.
- Finish with fresh cracked black pepper on top before serving.
Enjoy your 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. This dish is both vibrant and flavorful, making it perfect for various occasions.
Casual Dining
- Family Style: Serve the pasta in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves, encouraging a relaxed atmosphere.
- Individual Portions: Plate each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a polished look.
Pair with Wine
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the freshness of the tomatoes and pesto beautifully.
- Rosé: A light rosé adds a fruity touch that pairs well with the creamy mozzarella.
Add Crunch
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the dish for added texture and flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of garlic bread or a baguette to soak up any remaining pesto.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Top with whole basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
- Parmesan Shavings: Offer shaved Parmigiano Reggiano on the side for those who enjoy extra cheese.
How to Perfect Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Perfecting this dish takes just a few simple steps that enhance its flavors and presentation.
- Bold Cooking Time: Ensure you cook the orecchiette just until al dente so it retains a firm texture.
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your pasta water generously; this helps flavor every bite.
- Bold Pesto Use: Use fresh basil pesto for the best taste; homemade is ideal but store-bought works too!
- Bold Tomato Selection: Choose ripe cherry tomatoes for sweetness; halving them enhances their flavor release when cooked.
- Bold Cheese Choice: Opt for high-quality ciliegene mozzarella to ensure creaminess in each mouthful.
Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into extra pesto or sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, adding freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers roasted until tender complement the dish nicely.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers make an easy and tasty appetizer.
- Antipasto Platter: Offer an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives to tantalize your guests’ taste buds.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast adds protein and works well alongside this pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto can be delightful, but there are a few common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking your pasta too long will make it mushy. Always aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your pasta water can lead to bland dishes. Make sure to salt your water generously for better flavor in the final dish.
- Not reserving pasta water: Discarding all of your pasta water means losing a valuable resource. Reserve some of it to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Using stale pesto: Using old or low-quality pesto can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh basil pesto for maximum flavor.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Neglecting fresh basil or other herbs will lessen the dish’s freshness. Always add fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto can last in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
- Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread pasta in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to a skillet. Reheat over medium heat while stirring until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orecchiette?
Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with any short pasta like fusilli or penne. Keep cooking times in mind as they may vary slightly.
How do I make homemade basil pesto?
To make homemade basil pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would pair well with orecchiette and enhance its nutritional value.
What pairs well with Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly. It makes for a complete meal!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto is not only vibrant but also versatile. This dish allows you to explore different flavors by adding proteins or extra veggies. Encourage your creativity by customizing it according to your taste preferences!
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful and vibrant pasta dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender orecchiette pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil pesto, creating a colorful plate that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a beautiful and flavorful meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With its fresh ingredients and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen all year round.
Ingredients
- 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 leaves
- Shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orecchiette pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 9 minutes). Drain, reserving some cooking liquid.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and add halved cherry tomatoes. Cook until softened (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in the drained pasta and pesto; cook for an additional minute to coat.
- 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 bowl (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts make a delicious topping. For added texture, serve with crusty garlic bread.