Orzo Minestrone with Fresh Corn, Zucchini, and Pesto

Name: Orzo Minestrone with Fresh Corn, Zucchini, and Pesto
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian, European
Ingredients: 1 stalk celery, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, more as needed; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more for serving; 1 medium zucchini, cut into ½-inch pieces; 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced; 1 (14-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock; 1 (28-ounce) can diced or whole plum tomatoes; 1 cup corn kernels (either cut from one large fresh ear or frozen and thawed); 1/2 cup orzo; 1 pint (8 ounces) cherry tomatoes, quartered; 1/4 cup prepared pesto, more for serving; Grated Parmesan, for serving; Torn fresh basil leaves, for garnish