Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This pasta is vibrant and fresh, making it suitable for casual family dinners, elegant gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal. With its combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil pesto, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: Each ingredient shines through, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you need a wholesome meal fast.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or cold; it works well as a side or main course.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you can whip this up anytime.
• Customizable: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need a few essential tools that make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and keeping the water at a consistent temperature.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients quickly to bring out their flavors.
• Colander: Ensures efficient draining of the pasta without losing any delicious noodles.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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: Boil 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 2 minutes less than package instructions.
4. Drain the pasta while reserving a cup of the cooking liquid. Do not rinse.

Step 2: Sauté the Tomatoes

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 30 seconds until they start to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta and basil pesto to the skillet.
2. Stir for about 1 minute to coat the pasta thoroughly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Incorporate the mozzarella balls gently.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil leaves.
2. Divide pasta among bowls.
3. Top each serving with shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano and crack fresh black pepper over each bowl 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. This vibrant dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its fresh flavors.

Casual Family Dinner

• A delightful option for a relaxed family meal. Serve the pasta in large bowls and let everyone help themselves.

Picnic Delight

• Pack individual servings of the dish in mason jars. It’s easy to transport and perfect for enjoying outdoors.

Gourmet Touch

• Plate the pasta elegantly with a sprig of fresh basil on top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a refined presentation.

Pair with Wine

• Choose a light white wine like Pinot Grigio. It complements the flavors of the pesto and mozzarella beautifully.

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

To ensure your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely but aim to undercook by about two minutes. The pasta will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella. Freshness enhances flavor significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and pesto according to your preference for a balanced flavor profile.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep a cup of the cooking liquid handy. Adding it back can create a creamier sauce if needed.

• Add Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor contrast.

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

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can round out your meal nicely. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Arugula Salad: A simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast that balances the dish’s richness.

2. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter complements the pasta perfectly and is great for soaking up any leftover sauce.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.

4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy appetizer that echoes the main dish’s flavors.

5. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds a healthy green element to your table setting.

6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed in olive oil and herbs brings additional texture and heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Undercooked pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente. If it’s too firm, it won’t absorb the flavors well. Follow the package instructions closely.
• Skipping salt: Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta. Always add kosher salt generously to your boiling water for better flavor.
• Too much pesto: Adding too much basil pesto can overwhelm the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.
• Not saving pasta water: Discarding the pasta water means losing a flavorful element that helps create a sauce. Reserve at least one cup before draining.
• Overcooking cherry tomatoes: Cooking cherry tomatoes for too long can make them mushy. Just a quick sauté is all you need to enhance their flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Layer with parchment paper between portions to prevent sticking.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orecchiette?

Orecchiette is a type of pasta that resembles small ears. It’s perfect for holding sauces and pairs beautifully with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and mozzarella.

Can I customize Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra nutrition.

How do I make my own basil pesto?

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

What other dishes pair well with Orecchiette?

Orecchiette goes well with salads such as Caesar or Caprese and can be served alongside grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto recipe offers delightful flavors and a variety of textures that will impress anyone at your table. It’s not only quick and easy but also customizable according to your preferences. Try adding toasted nuts or more veggies for added crunch and taste!