This Easy Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta is a bright and tasty dish! It combines fresh, juicy tomatoes with creamy burrata cheese and pasta for a delightful meal.
Making it is super simple, just cook the pasta, mix in the tomatoes and burrata, and enjoy! I love to sprinkle a little basil on top—it makes everything even better. 🌿
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but you can use any pasta you have on hand like penne or farfalle. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta works great too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes bring sweetness. If you can’t find them, diced canned tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes can work, but adjust the quantity based on your taste.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is creamy and luxurious, but if you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative. Just slice it thinly and mix in. For a vegan option, use a plant-based cheese spread.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is key for flavor! If you’re looking for something different, avocado oil can also be used, but stick with quality for the best taste.
How Do I Cook Fresh Pasta for the Best Texture?
Cooking the pasta properly is crucial for achieving the best texture in your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large pot of water, generously salted. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Bring it to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, but check a minute early. You want it al dente, which means firm to bite.
- Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help bind your sauce.
Following these tips will ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked and works well with your fresh ingredients!
Easy Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes total to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes cooking the tomatoes and assembling everything. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for summer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of that starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautĂ© it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and start releasing their juices. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cooked tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine. If the mixture seems dry, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.
4. Add Burrata and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Tear the burrata cheese into chunks, and gently place it over the pasta. The warmth will start to melt it into the dish. Finish with fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta immediately, making sure to let the creamy burrata melt into the warm pasta. Enjoy this fresh dish, perfect for warm evenings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry and grape tomatoes add sweetness, you can use heirloom tomatoes or even diced canned tomatoes. Just be mindful of the volume; if using larger tomatoes, you might want to chop them into smaller pieces for similar cooking results.
What If I Can’t Find Burrata Cheese?
No problem! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute. Cut the mozzarella into smaller pieces and mix it into the pasta at the end. For a vegan option, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help refresh the dish and keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead! Cook the pasta and tomatoes separately, then combine them just before serving. This ensures the burrata stays creamy and the pasta doesn’t become mushy.
