Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe
Craving a comforting yet fresh pasta dish? This Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of al dente pasta, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
This dish is all about simplicity and flavor. The tender orecchiette, which means ‘little ears’ in Italian, pairs beautifully with ripe tomatoes and gooey mozzarella. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of summer, but can easily be made any time of the year. Plus, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to share with family and friends.
The Allure of Orecchiette
Orecchiette pasta, known for its unique shape resembling little ears, presents a wonderful canvas for a variety of flavors. This delightful pasta dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, particularly when combined with ripe cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
The texture of orecchiette is perfect for capturing the juicy essence of tomatoes and the richness of mozzarella. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast that is hard to resist. You’ll find that this dish not only tastes great but also brings a burst of color to your table, making it visually appealing.
Fresh Ingredients Shine
The key to a successful Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using ripe cherry tomatoes ensures a sweet and tangy flavor profile that enhances the overall dish.
Additionally, creamy mozzarella provides a luscious texture that melts beautifully, creating a delightful experience. Fresh basil leaves not only contribute to the aroma but also add a lovely touch of green that brightens the plate. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish further, providing a savory finish.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this pasta dish is straightforward and can easily fit into a busy schedule. Start by cooking the orecchiette in boiling salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This step is critical, as it sets the foundation for the dish.
While the pasta cooks, sauté minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes in olive oil until they soften. This step unlocks the flavors and creates a beautiful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. After combining the cooked pasta with the tomatoes, gently fold in the mozzarella to allow it to melt slightly from the heat, resulting in a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation plays an important role. Plate the pasta in a rustic dish, allowing the vibrant colors to stand out. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, which not only enhance the flavor but also add an inviting touch.
If desired, a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add an additional layer of flavor, making it a true Italian delight. Enjoy this dish warm, accompanied by a crisp salad or a piece of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe is versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress.
Thanks to its vibrant flavors and simplicity, it is an excellent choice for those looking to create a memorable meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its satisfying taste and beautiful presentation make it a dish that everyone will love.
A Taste of Italy at Home
Bringing the flavors of Italy to your kitchen has never been easier. With the Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe, you can create an authentic dish that showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine.
In just under 30 minutes, you can transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy, enjoying every bite of this comforting pasta creation. Embrace the freshness of the ingredients and delight in the satisfaction of making a dish that’s truly special.
The Perfect Pasta Dish: Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella
This Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe features tender pasta coated in a light sauce made from fresh tomatoes, topped with melted mozzarella that creates a deliciously creamy texture. The combination of flavors is both refreshing and satisfying, making it a must-try for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orecchiette according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the tomatoes are soft and juicy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine: Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Add Mozzarella: Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the diced mozzarella, letting it melt slightly from the residual heat.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Orecchiette with Tomato and Mozzarella!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 40g