Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your table. This recipe shines with its fresh ingredients and is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. With the combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil pesto, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of seasonal cherry tomatoes and fresh basil gives this dish a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it complements any meal and can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make for an appealing presentation that impresses guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to add toasted nuts or extra veggies for added texture and nutrients.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are the essential tools you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients together and combining flavors seamlessly.
• Colander: Useful for draining pasta while retaining some cooking liquid for later use.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything mixes well.

Ingredients

To create the delightful Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, gather the following 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 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. Season well with kosher salt.
2. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes or 2 minutes less than package instructions recommend.
3. Drain pasta, reserving at least one cup of the 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 begin to soften.
3. Add cooked pasta and basil pesto to the skillet. Stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or reserved pasta cooking liquid if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Fold in ciliegene mozzarella until well mixed.
2. Add fresh basil leaves just before removing from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among bowls.
2. Top each serving with shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano if desired.
3. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately.

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 can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• This dish is perfect for a relaxed family dinner. Serve it in large bowls and let everyone help themselves.

Outdoor Picnic

• Pack the pasta in portable containers. It tastes great at room temperature, making it ideal for a sunny picnic in the park.

Gourmet Plating

• For a more refined presentation, plate individual servings and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.

Meat Pairing

• Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or turkey for added protein. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

Side Salad

• A simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta.

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

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Orecchiette, consider these helpful tips.

• Salt the water generously: Properly seasoning the boiling water enhances the pasta’s flavor.
• Cook al dente: Aim for slightly undercooked pasta. It will absorb flavors better when tossed with other ingredients.
• Use high-quality pesto: Fresh basil pesto elevates this dish. Make your own or choose a premium store-bought version.
• Add reserved pasta water: If the dish seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking liquid to create a saucy consistency.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for optimal taste and texture.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add toasted nuts or extra herbs for additional layers of flavor.

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.

1. Garlic Bread: Toast slices of bread brushed with olive oil and garlic for a crunchy accompaniment.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled until tender add color and flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing provides a nutritious balance to your meal.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that complements the pasta well.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella & basil pesto is simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can lead to mushy textures. Always check for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.
• Skipping the Salt in Water: Not salting the boiling water can make your pasta bland. Use enough kosher salt in the water to enhance flavor.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Failing to save some pasta cooking liquid means missing out on creating a silky sauce. Reserve at least a cup before draining.
• Adding Ingredients Too Early: Putting together all ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the steps for timing adjustments, especially with fresh ingredients.
• Ignoring Taste Adjustments: Forgetting to taste while cooking may leave your dish unbalanced. Always adjust seasoning and flavors as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until evenly warmed.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of reserved pasta water or oil in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella & basil pesto.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like feta or goat cheese for different flavors and textures.

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

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or proteins like grilled chicken or turkey for added nutrition.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil works as an alternative, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor. Consider using spinach or arugula if fresh basil isn’t available.

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

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella & basil pesto is a delightful dish that captures summer’s vibrant flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences by adding different vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this easy recipe at home and impress your friends and family!