This Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta is a fresh and tasty treat! With juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy burrata, it brings a burst of flavor in every bite.
You can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. I love how the tomatoes burst with flavor, making my kitchen smell amazing while I cook. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like spaghetti for this recipe, but you can use any pasta you love! Try penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy. If they aren’t available, grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Burrata Cheese: Burrata adds a creamy touch. If you’re out, use fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a similar texture, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings flavor. If you don’t have any, dried basil can work too, but use half as much since it’s more concentrated. Oregano is a nice alternative as well!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Cooking pasta well is key to this dish. Here are steps to follow for that perfect al dente texture:
- Start with a large pot of salted water. It should taste a bit like the sea!
- As the water boils, add the pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
- Set a timer as per package instructions, but taste a minute earlier. Perfectly cooked pasta should be firm yet tender.
- Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. It’s useful for adjusting sauce consistency later!
This will help you avoid mushy pasta and keep your dish fresh and flavorful!
How to Make Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total—about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your spaghetti (or chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it! This water will help adjust the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn—it should just be fragrant and golden!
3. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time for the cherry tomatoes! Add them to the skillet along with the red chili flakes if you’re using them. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and start breaking down, creating a nice sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
After the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together so that the pasta is coated in the delicious tomato sauce. If it looks a bit dry, add some of that reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you’ve reached your desired sauce consistency.
5. Finishing Touches:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in your fresh basil. This adds a lovely flavor and freshness to the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to plate up! Divide the pasta among serving plates and tear the burrata cheese into pieces, placing it on top of each portion. Garnish with extra basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
This Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta is a fantastic combination of flavors, and I hope you love it as much as I do!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free options. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use!
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If burrata isn’t available, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta as alternatives. Fresh mozzarella will give you a similar creaminess, while ricotta will add a slightly different flavor. Just tear or spoon it on top as you would with burrata.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by omitting the burrata cheese or substituting it with a plant-based cheese. Also, check the pasta to ensure it’s egg-free since some pasta varieties contain eggs.
