Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto
Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil Pesto is a delightful dish that perfectly marries fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. This easy-to-prepare pasta recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The small ear-shaped orecchiette pasta pairs beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil pesto, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- 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
- Kosher salt
- 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 for garnish
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook orecchiette until al dente (about 9 minutes). Reserve one cup of cooking liquid before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over high heat and add halved cherry tomatoes; cook for 30 seconds until softened.
- Add drained pasta and basil pesto to the skillet; stir for one minute to combine.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, then gently mix in mozzarella and fresh basil leaves right before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg