Name: Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb uncooked pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 2 pints cherry tomatoes; 6 cloves garlic; sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper; 1 fresh burrata cheese; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; ⅔ cup Pine nuts

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with garlicky pasta complemented by creamy burrata, fresh basil, and burst cherry tomatoes. This dish brings together the richness of burrata cheese with the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Photos of Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every kitchen. Burrata cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, known for its rich, creamy center. Pine nuts add a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor. Ensure these are on your shopping list when you visit the supermarket.

Ingredients For Garlicky Pasta With Burrata, Basil, And Burst Cherry Tomatoes

Uncooked pasta: The base of the dish. Choose your favorite type.

Butter: Adds richness to the sauce. Alternatively, you can use olive oil.

Cherry tomatoes: Provide a burst of sweetness and juiciness.

Garlic: Infuses the sauce with its aromatic flavor.

Sea salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Burrata cheese: A creamy, rich cheese that melts beautifully into the pasta.

Fresh basil leaves: Offers a fragrant, herby note.

Pine nuts: Toasted for a crunchy, nutty finish.

One reader, Dario Eads says:

This garlicky pasta with burrata, basil, and burst cherry tomatoes is a flavor explosion! The creamy burrata melts perfectly with the fresh basil and juicy tomatoes. It's easy to make and feels gourmet. A new favorite in our household!

Dario Eads

Techniques Required for Making Garlicky Pasta with Burrata

How to toast pine nuts: Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.

How to cook pasta al dente: Cook pasta in boiling, salted water until it is tender but still firm to the bite, usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.

How to burst cherry tomatoes: Cook cherry tomatoes in a sauté pan over medium-high heat until they soften and their skins split, releasing their juices to form a sauce.

How to tear burrata: Gently tear the burrata cheese into rough pieces using your hands, ensuring the creamy interior is exposed.

How to use starchy pasta water: Reserve some of the water used to cook the pasta. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to help it adhere to the pasta and create a creamier texture.

How To Make Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes

The fresh flavors of summer shine bright in this garlicky pasta dish. Buttery & savory cherry tomatoes and burrata really take this dish to the next level.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbuncooked pasta
2tbspbutter,or olive oil
2pintscherry tomatoes
6clovesgarlic,peeled and lightly smashed
sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
1fresh burrata cheese,large ball
2cupsfresh basil leaves,loosely packed, roughly chopped
⅔cuppine nuts,toasted

Instructions

Bring a large pot of generously-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until 1 minute shy of al dente.
Meanwhile, as soon as the pasta is added to the boiling water, begin cooking the tomato sauce. Melt the butter (or olive oil) in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add the tomatoes and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes or until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices to form a sauce. Reduce heat to low, season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove and discard the smashed garlic.
Let the tomato sauce continue cooking on low until the pasta is ready to go.
Once the pasta is nearly al dente, use kitchen tongs to transfer the pasta directly into the tomato sauce and toss briefly to combine. Tear the ball of burrata into 6 or 8 rough pieces.
Then add the burrata, basil, ⅓ cup of the toasted pine nuts, and ½ cup of the hot starchy pasta water to the pasta.
Toss until the pasta is evenly combined and al dente. If the pasta seems too dry, just mix in more starchy pasta water as needed.
Dish the servings up immediately while the pasta is hot and the cheese is still gooey. Sprinkle each serving with the remaining pine nuts and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 461.62kcal
Fat: 17.11g
Saturated Fat: 4.32g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.88g
Carbohydrates: 64.22g
Fiber: 4.57g
Sugar: 5.70g
Protein: 14.54g
Cholesterol: 14.94mg
Sodium: 529.43mg
Calcium: 82.47mg
Potassium: 575.05mg
Iron: 2.44mg
Vitamin A: 114.92µg
Vitamin C: 18.48mg

Crucial Technique for Perfectly Burst Cherry Tomatoes

When cooking the cherry tomatoes, use a wooden spoon to gently press on a few of them as they cook. This will help release their juices more quickly, creating a richer and more flavorful sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Recipe

Pre-cook the pasta: Cook the pasta a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the tomato sauce to save time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Toast pine nuts in bulk: Toast a large batch of pine nuts and store them for future use.

Buy pre-washed basil: Purchase pre-washed basil leaves to skip the washing and drying process.

Cherry tomatoes shortcut: Use canned cherry tomatoes if you're short on time for bursting fresh ones.

Substitute Ingredients For Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

uncooked pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles can be used. They provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors well.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat and adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and burst when cooked, making them an excellent alternative.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can still enhance the dish without overpowering it.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
freshly-cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder heat and can be used if you prefer a less pungent flavor.
burrata cheese - Substitute with fresh mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a good stand-in for burrata.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with fresh spinach leaves: Fresh spinach can provide a similar leafy texture and mild flavor, though it won't have the same aromatic quality.
pine nuts - Substitute with slivered almonds: Slivered almonds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative to pine nuts.

Presenting Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil, and Burst Cherry Tomatoes

Choose the right plate: Use a large, flat, white plate to allow the vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, basil, and burrata to stand out.
Create a pasta nest: Twirl the pasta into a neat nest in the center of the plate using a carving fork or tongs. This adds height and elegance to the presentation.
Strategically place the burrata: Tear the burrata into pieces and place them artfully around the pasta nest. Ensure each piece is visible and slightly melted for a gooey texture.
Add the burst cherry tomatoes: Spoon the burst cherry tomatoes and their sauce around and over the pasta nest, ensuring an even distribution of color and flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves and scatter them generously over the dish. This adds a pop of green and a fresh aroma.
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts: Lightly sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the entire dish, reserving a few for the final touch. This adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
Drizzle with extra sauce: Drizzle any remaining tomato sauce around the plate for added flavor and visual appeal.
Finish with a touch of sea salt and pepper: Lightly season the dish with sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Serve immediately: Ensure the dish is served hot so the burrata remains gooey and the flavors are at their peak.

Essential Tools for Making Garlicky Pasta with Burrata

Large pot: Used to boil the pasta in generously-salted water until it is nearly al dente.
Kitchen tongs: Handy for transferring the pasta directly from the boiling water to the tomato sauce.
Large sauté pan: Essential for cooking the tomato sauce with butter, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the tomatoes and garlic as they cook and burst to form a sauce.
Garlic press: Convenient for smashing the garlic cloves before adding them to the sauté pan.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the butter, pine nuts, and pasta water accurately.
Colander: Helpful for draining the pasta if you prefer not to use kitchen tongs to transfer it.
Cutting board: Necessary for tearing the burrata cheese into rough pieces and possibly for prepping the basil leaves.
Chef's knife: Ideal for tearing the burrata and chopping any additional ingredients if needed.
Serving bowls: Used to dish up the pasta servings immediately while the pasta is hot and the cheese is still gooey.

Storing and Freezing Garlicky Pasta with Burrata

Let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave the pasta in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, or reheat it in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen up the sauce.
If you want to freeze the pasta, it's best to freeze the sauce separately from the cooked pasta. Store the tomato sauce in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Cook the pasta fresh and toss it with the reheated sauce, along with some fresh burrata cheese, basil leaves, and toasted pine nuts.
Note: The texture of the pasta may change slightly after being frozen and reheated, but the flavor should still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Pasta Dishes

To reheat leftover garlicky pasta with burrata, basil, and burst cherry tomatoes, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out during the reheating process.
Microwave the pasta on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. The exact time will depend on the amount of pasta you're reheating and the power of your microwave. Be sure to stir the pasta halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer to reheat the pasta on the stovetop, place it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, olive oil, or butter to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan. Stir the pasta frequently as it reheats, and add more liquid as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the pasta in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in the skillet over medium heat, then add the leftover pasta. Toss the pasta in the skillet for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt, black pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
If the burrata has become too cold and firm, you can place it in a separate microwave-safe dish and microwave it for just 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly before adding it back to the reheated pasta.
To freshen up the basil and add a pop of color, consider tearing a few fresh basil leaves over the top of the reheated pasta just before serving.
If you find that the cherry tomatoes have lost some of their juiciness during storage, you can add a handful of fresh cherry tomatoes to the pasta as it reheats to restore some of that burst tomato flavor.

Interesting Fact About Burrata Cheese

A fun fact about this recipe is that burrata cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it an unusual, soft texture.

Is Making Garlicky Pasta with Burrata Cost-Effective?

This garlicky pasta with burrata, basil, and burst cherry tomatoes recipe is moderately cost-effective. The pasta and cherry tomatoes are relatively inexpensive, while the burrata cheese and pine nuts can be pricier. However, the dish's flavor and satisfaction level justify the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:

Healthy aspects:

Cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants
Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system
Basil is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and manganese
Pine nuts are a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E

Unhealthy aspects:

The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
Burrata cheese is high in calories and fat, although it does provide some protein and calcium
The recipe doesn't include any additional vegetables or lean proteins to balance out the meal

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile
Reduce the amount of burrata cheese used or replace it with a lower-fat cheese like fresh mozzarella
Include a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or fat

By making these adjustments, you can transform this pasta dish into a more nutritious and well-rounded meal that still tastes delicious. The key is to find a balance between indulgence and health-consciousness, so you can enjoy your favorite foods while still taking care of your body.

Editor's Opinion on Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil, and Burst Cherry Tomatoes

This recipe beautifully balances simplicity and sophistication. The burst cherry tomatoes create a vibrant sauce, while the burrata adds a luxurious creaminess. Fresh basil and toasted pine nuts provide aromatic and textural contrasts. The use of starchy pasta water to bind the sauce ensures a cohesive dish. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick yet elegant meal.

Enhance Your Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Complement the garlicky pasta with a vibrant side of grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon zest and a sprinkle of sea salt. The citrusy notes will elevate the dish, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy burrata and burst cherry tomatoes.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Add a touch of elegance with prosciutto-wrapped melon. The sweet and juicy melon pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto, creating a delightful balance that complements the rich flavors of the pasta. This side dish brings a sophisticated twist to your meal.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Introduce a colorful and earthy element with a roasted beet and goat cheese salad. The roasted beets offer a deep, sweet flavor that harmonizes with the tangy goat cheese. Tossed with arugula and a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a refreshing and nutritious touch.

Garlic Bread with Parmesan: Enhance the garlicky theme with garlic bread topped with parmesan. The crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic and melted parmesan creates a perfect accompaniment, offering a satisfying crunch and additional layers of flavor.

Caprese Skewers: For a light and visually appealing side, serve caprese skewers. These skewers feature cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze. The fresh and tangy bites mirror the flavors of the main dish, creating a cohesive and delightful dining experience.

Similar Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Dive into a bowl of pasta coated in a luscious pesto sauce with bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is a symphony of flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Experience the zesty freshness of lemon combined with the savory goodness of garlic and succulent shrimp. This pasta dish is light, bright, and utterly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for seafood lovers.

Roasted Vegetable Pasta Primavera: Celebrate the bounty of seasonal vegetables with this vibrant pasta primavera. Roasted to perfection, the vegetables add a delightful depth of flavor, complemented by a light and creamy sauce.

Spaghetti Carbonara: Indulge in the classic Italian comfort of spaghetti carbonara. Rich with eggs, cheese, and crispy pancetta, this dish is a timeless favorite that brings a touch of Rome to your kitchen.

Mushroom and Spinach Alfredo: Savor the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the nutritious goodness of spinach in a creamy alfredo sauce. This pasta dish is both decadent and wholesome, perfect for a comforting meal.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Garlicky Pasta Dinner

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful start to any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, golden crust when baked. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for whetting the appetite and setting the stage for the main course.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to your meal. Picture juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also provide a burst of freshness with every bite.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian treat that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The cocoa powder dusting on top adds a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. Perfect for a sophisticated end to your meal, this dessert is both creamy and light, making it an ideal pairing with your garlicky pasta.

Panna Cotta: Delight in a silky-smooth vanilla panna cotta that melts in your mouth. This Italian custard is set with gelatin and can be topped with a fresh berry compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of your main course.

Why trust this Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, basil, and burst cherry tomatoes to create a delightful pasta dish. The addition of creamy burrata cheese elevates the dish to a gourmet level, while the pine nuts add a satisfying crunch. The instructions are straightforward, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these fresh ingredients to deliver a memorable meal.

Want to share your experience making this Garlicky Pasta with Burrata, Basil and Burst Cherry Tomatoes Recipe? Join the discussion in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the cherry tomatoes are ready?

You'll know the cherry tomatoes are ready when they start to burst and release their juices. This usually takes about 8 minutes of cooking. They should look soft and saucy.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of burrata?

Absolutely! If you can't find burrata, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta would work well. Just make sure to tear it into pieces so it melts nicely into the pasta.

What if I don't have pine nuts?

No worries! You can substitute pine nuts with other nuts like almonds or walnuts. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor. If you're allergic to nuts, you can skip them altogether.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To prevent the garlic from burning, make sure you cook it over medium-high heat and keep stirring it with the tomatoes. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, you can lower the heat a bit.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the cheese is still gooey and the pasta is hot. However, you can prep the tomato sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to cook the pasta. Just add the burrata, basil, and pine nuts right before serving.