Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. This recipe highlights the freshness of cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The vibrant basil pesto adds depth and richness, ensuring this pasta dish stands out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil elevates the flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish; it adapts well to different occasions.
- Customizable: Feel free to add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it a hit for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right kitchen gadgets will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients quickly over high heat, infusing flavors.
- Colander: Helps drain pasta efficiently while reserving cooking liquid for sauce adjustments.
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 Orecchiette Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Season well with kosher salt.
- Add orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes (or 2 minutes less than package instructions suggest).
- Drain pasta in a colander but reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Do not rinse.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 30 seconds until they start to soften.
- Add the cooked orecchiette and basil pesto to the skillet.
- Stir everything together for about 1 minute until pasta is well-coated with pesto.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or reserved pasta cooking liquid if needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Gently stir in ciliegene mozzarella balls until mixed thoroughly.
- Add fresh basil leaves and remove from heat.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta among bowls.
- Top each serving with shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano if desired.
- Finish with fresh cracked black pepper on top before serving.
Enjoy your homemade 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 is a delightful experience. You can elevate this dish by pairing it with various accompaniments or presenting it in creative ways.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves. This creates a communal atmosphere that invites conversation and sharing.
Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant presentation, divide the pasta into individual bowls. Top each serving with extra basil and cheese for a refined touch.
With Toasted Nuts
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the dish before serving. This adds a lovely crunch and enhances the flavors of the pesto.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add additional fresh basil leaves on top for color and freshness. This makes the dish visually appealing and boosts its aroma.
Served Cold as a Salad
- Let the pasta cool and serve it as a cold pasta salad. This is perfect for summer picnics or barbecues, where it can be enjoyed at room temperature.
How to Perfect Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
To make your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto truly shine, consider these helpful tips.
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Adjust cooking time: Undercook the orecchiette slightly to ensure it remains al dente after mixing with other ingredients.
- Customize your pesto: Feel free to add more basil pesto according to your taste preference. A little extra can enhance the overall flavor.
- Incorporate seasonal veggies: Consider adding zucchini or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with cheeses: While Parmigiano Reggiano is classic, try using feta or goat cheese for a different twist.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after mixing to capture all the vibrant flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Pairing side dishes with your Orecchiette can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this pasta dish well.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is ideal for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that mirrors flavors in the main dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers add a smoky flavor that pairs nicely.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses provides variety and visual appeal to your meal.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the freshness of the basil pesto beautifully.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy element that enhances your dining experience.
- Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with rosemary makes for an irresistible side that’s perfect for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the orecchiette too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions but aim to undercook it slightly since it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
Skipping the salt in the water: Not salting your boiling water is a missed opportunity for flavor. Make sure your water is well-seasoned before adding the pasta for better-tasting results.
Using cold ingredients: Adding cold mozzarella or pesto can cool down the dish and affect texture. Let these ingredients come to room temperature before mixing them into your hot pasta.
Neglecting to taste as you go: It’s crucial to taste the dish throughout the cooking process. Adjusting salt, pepper, or pesto will ensure a balanced flavor in your Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto.
Ignoring fresh herbs: Using dried basil instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh basil when making this recipe for a vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Separate any fresh basil or cheese before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
- Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Store for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.
Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water. Stir until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto last?
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?
Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
What can I substitute for mozzarella in this recipe?
If you prefer not using mozzarella, you can try burrata or feta cheese as delicious alternatives that will complement the flavors well.
How do I customize my Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?
Feel free to add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch. You can also include other vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
Final Thoughts
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Its versatility allows you to tailor it according to your preferences—whether by adding proteins or experimenting with different vegetables. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its simple yet delicious appeal!
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that captures the essence of summer. This quick and easy recipe brings together the sweetness of fresh cherry tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the aromatic richness of basil pesto, creating a delightful meal in just 30 minutes. Perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, this versatile dish can be enjoyed warm or as a refreshing cold pasta salad.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta
- kosher salt
- 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
- shaving of Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
- fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orecchiette in salted boiling water until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of cooking liquid before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and sauté halved cherry tomatoes for about 30 seconds until softened.
- Add cooked orecchiette and basil pesto to the skillet; stir for about 1 minute to combine.
- Gently fold in ciliegene mozzarella and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately, topped with Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use high-quality fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Adjust cooking time to keep the pasta al dente. Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses like burrata or feta.