Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the sweetness of fresh cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella, this dish bursts with freshness and color. The homemade basil pesto adds a delightful herbaceous note, making it a comforting yet elegant meal. Whether served warm or chilled as a pasta salad, this recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s easily customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or nuts for extra texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 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
- 1/2 lb. ciliegene mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add orecchiette and cook until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of cooking liquid before draining.
- In a skillet over high heat, add olive oil and sauté cherry tomatoes for about 30 seconds.
- Mix in the drained orecchiette with basil pesto, stirring to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Gently fold in mozzarella and fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg