Orecchiette with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella

This creamy, sweet-tart orecchiette dish takes inspiration from pasta alla Sorrentina, a southern Italian classic featuring fresh, quick-cooked tomatoes, mozzarella and aromatic basil. To make it, we quickly infuse oil with garlic, then stir in whole cherry or grape tomatoes—no slicing or chopping necessary—and red pepper flakes. Orecchiette and a few cups of water are added to the mix, creating a silky-smooth sauce as they cook together. Fresh mozzarella can become stringy and rubbery if over-mixed, so take care to stir just until it starts to melt.