Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This pasta recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With its combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil pesto, it’s a dish that will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cherry tomatoes and basil pesto creates a refreshing and zesty taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal vegetables or add toasted nuts for extra crunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a favorite among both adults and children due to its delicious flavors.
• Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients, this pasta is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
• Skillet: Used to sauté the tomatoes and combine all ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta while reserving important 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

For the 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

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season well with kosher salt.
2. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes or about 2 minutes less than what package instructions suggest.
3. Drain the pasta in 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 the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 30 seconds until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the cooked orecchiette and basil pesto. Cook for an additional minute while stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or reserved pasta cooking liquid as needed.
5. Gently fold in the ciliegene mozzarella and fresh basil before removing from heat.

Step 3: Serve

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

Enjoy your beautifully crafted 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 any meal. This dish is not only colorful but also packed with flavor. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious pasta.

Casual Dinner

• Serve the orecchiette in a large bowl for family-style dining. Let guests help themselves, making it a fun and interactive meal.

Picnic Delight

• Pack the orecchiette in portable containers for a delightful picnic treat. Pair it with fresh bread and a light salad for a complete meal outdoors.

Elegant Plating

• For a more sophisticated presentation, twirl the orecchiette into nests on individual plates. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Lunch Box Favorite

• This dish makes an excellent lunch option. Portion it into containers for an easy grab-and-go meal that stays delicious even when cold.

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

Perfecting your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pasta shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor.
• Salt Your Pasta Water: Season the boiling water well before adding pasta; this enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta cooking liquid aside; it helps adjust the sauce consistency and adds flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; it should have a slight bite as it continues cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, or pesto to suit your preferences.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Consider incorporating toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and depth of flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can create a well-rounded meal that delights the palate. Here are some great options to complement your pasta.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce while adding rich flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the pasta beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing flavors.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the orecchiette.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that pairs well with the freshness of the pesto.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes an exciting addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.

• Incorrect Pasta Cooking Time: Undercooking pasta slightly is crucial. If you cook it fully according to the package instructions, the pasta will become mushy when combined with other ingredients.
• Skipping the Salt in Water: Neglecting to salt your boiling water can lead to bland pasta. Always season the water generously for optimal flavor.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save some pasta cooking liquid means losing a key ingredient to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve at least a cup before draining.
• Overcooking Tomatoes: Cooking cherry tomatoes too long can make them mushy and lose their vibrant flavor. Only sauté for about 30 seconds to maintain their freshness.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a lackluster dish. Always sample and tweak with salt, pepper, or pesto as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Layer parchment paper between portions if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.

Can I use regular pasta instead of orecchiette?

Yes, while orecchiette is traditional for this recipe, any pasta shape can be substituted based on your preference.

What are some good side dishes for Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Consider serving it alongside a light salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.

How should I store leftovers of Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors. This dish allows room for customization; feel free to add vegetables or proteins as you like. Try it out and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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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 and flavorful pasta dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal featuring tender orecchiette pasta coated in aromatic basil pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This recipe not only impresses with its fresh ingredients but also offers versatility—perfect for casual family dinners or festive gatherings. With its quick preparation time and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining friends.

• 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
• Shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
• Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook orecchiette in salted boiling water until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve some cooking liquid, then drain.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in cooked orecchiette and basil pesto, mixing well. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Fold in mozzarella and fresh basil before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Feel free to customize by incorporating seasonal vegetables or proteins.