Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Name: Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta; Kosher salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons basil pesto; 1/2 lb. ciliegene (small balls) mozzarella; Fresh basil leaves; Fresh cracked black pepper

Published: July 22, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil brings a burst of flavor to each bite.
Versatile: Enjoy it warm as a main course or serve it cold as a pasta salad at picnics and parties.
Customizable: Feel free to add toasted nuts or different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this recipe is a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Colander
Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the cherry tomatoes and combining all ingredients without sticking.
Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly while retaining its shape and texture.
Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon makes mixing ingredients easier and ensures even distribution of flavors.

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 Serving

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 according to package instructions minus 2 minutes.
Drain pasta, reserving a cup or more of the pasta 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 30 seconds until they start to soften.
Add the cooked pasta along with the basil pesto.
Cook for 1 minute while stirring to coat the pasta evenly in pesto.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or reserved cooking liquid if needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Gently fold in the ciliegene mozzarella until combined.
Add fresh basil leaves and remove from heat.
Divide pasta among bowls; sprinkle with shavings of Parmigiano if desired.
Finish with a crack of fresh black pepper on top before serving.

This Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Serving Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few creative touches. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Extra Fresh Basil

Adding more fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant pop of color to the dish.

Pair with Toasted Nuts

Consider tossing in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy mozzarella.

Drizzle of Balsamic Reduction

A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of the pesto and cheese.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping into any leftover pesto or sauce, making it a perfect meal.

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

To achieve the best results with your Orecchiette dish, follow these simple tips for perfection.

Salt the pasta water generously: This is key to infusing flavor into your pasta right from the start.
Under-cook the pasta slightly: Cook the orecchiette for about two minutes less than package instructions to ensure it remains al dente after mixing with other ingredients.
Use room temperature ingredients: Let your mozzarella sit at room temperature before adding it to allow it to melt slightly when mixed with warm pasta.
Reserve pasta cooking liquid: Keep some of the starchy water as it helps create a smoother sauce when mixing everything together.
Taste and adjust seasonings: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or pesto according to your preference for flavor balance.

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

Pairing side dishes with Orecchiette can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Bread
Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast and is great for sopping up extra sauce.
Arugula Salad
A fresh arugula salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery balance to the rich pasta dish.
Grilled Vegetables
Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring color and smokiness that complement the flavors in your pasta.
Caprese Salad
A classic Caprese salad featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella echoes flavors from your main dish while adding freshness.
Roasted Chickpeas
Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with herbs serve as a healthy snack that pairs well with the meal’s richness.
Zucchini Noodles
For a light touch, spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil provide a refreshing side that won’t overpower the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Skipping the salt – Not salting the pasta water can result in bland pasta. Always make sure to season the boiling water generously with kosher salt.
Overcooking pasta – Cooking the pasta too long will lead to mushy orecchiette. Aim for al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions.
Not reserving pasta water – Forgetting to save some cooking liquid can limit your ability to adjust the sauce consistency. Always reserve at least a cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
Ignoring freshness – Using old or stale ingredients can dull flavors. Fresh cherry tomatoes and quality mozzarella will elevate your dish significantly.
Underestimating seasoning adjustments – Not tasting your dish before serving can leave it under-seasoned. Adjust salt, pepper, and pesto as needed for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Consider portioning for easy reheating later.

Reheating Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet; add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto:

What is Orecchiette?

Orecchiette is a type of Italian pasta shaped like small ears. It pairs wonderfully with various sauces due to its unique shape.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like burrata or ricotta for different textures and flavors in your dish.

How do I make homemade basil pesto?

To make basil pesto at home, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), olive oil, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.

What goes well with Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto?

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or grilled vegetables. A side of crusty bread also complements it well.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Add proteins like grilled chicken or turkey or include additional vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish bursting with fresh flavors. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a wonderful meal!

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