This Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta is a fresh and tasty dish that brings summer to your table! Juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese make every bite special.
It’s so simple to make, you’ll feel like a chef in no time! I love tossing it together for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch. Plus, who can resist that gooey burrata? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used spaghetti, but you can switch it up with penne or linguine. Any pasta will work here. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great options if you have dietary preferences.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are best for sweetness, but if out of season, canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch. They might not be as vibrant but will still taste good!
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is fabulous for its creaminess. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a solid substitute, though it won’t have the same creamy texture.
Basil: Fresh basil takes this dish to another level, but if you don’t have any, try fresh spinach or even arugula for a different flavor. Dried basil is a fallback, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but timing is key! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with a large pot of water and add salt; it should taste like the sea. This ensures your pasta is flavorful.
- Once boiling, add pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for cooking time, but start tasting a minute or two before the time is up. You’re looking for “al dente,” which means it has a little bite.
- Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This can help loosen your sauce if it feels too thick!
With these tips, your pasta will be perfectly cooked and ready to soak up all those fresh flavors! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes around 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and 10 minutes preparing the sauce and combining everything. Quick and perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not hard). When it’s ready, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to release their juices. This will create a lovely sauce base!
4. Combine with Pasta:
Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if you need to loosen the sauce a bit. It should be wonderfully coated!
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. They will wilt slightly and add a beautiful aroma. Now it’s time to serve! Divide the pasta among plates and tear the burrata cheese, placing it generously on top of each portion. Optionally, sprinkle with more fresh basil and some grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm and experience the creamy, fresh flavors of this delightful dish!
This simple recipe highlights the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes paired with the luscious creaminess of burrata, making for a delightful pasta meal that’s perfect for any day!
FAQ for Easy Cherry Tomato Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand, whether it’s spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of olive oil or water to keep it moist. The burrata may not be as creamy after reheating, but it will still taste great!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can cook the pasta and prepare the tomato sauce in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the pasta from getting soggy. If you’re adding burrata, it’s best to add it fresh right before serving!
What Substitutes Can I Use for Burrata?
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute. While it won’t have the same creamy center, it will still add a delicious milky flavor to the dish. You could also use ricotta cheese for a different texture!
