Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful and vibrant dish that celebrates fresh summer flavors. This easy-to-make pasta features tender orecchiette enveloped in a luscious basil pesto, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, this recipe showcases the essence of seasonal ingredients while offering a burst of flavor in every bite. With its quick preparation and minimal clean-up, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that impresses family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 lb. orecchiette pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 lb. ciliegene mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve some cooking water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté cherry tomatoes until softened (about 30 seconds).
- Add drained orecchiette and basil pesto; stir to coat evenly for about a minute.
- Fold in ciliegene mozzarella and fresh basil just before serving.
- Divide into bowls, garnishing with Parmigiano Reggiano shavings and cracked pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg