Indulge in the Simple Elegance of Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta
Escape the weeknight dinner rut with this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta with Burrata. This dish is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients, coming together in a symphony of taste and texture that's perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, vibrant tomato sauce, bursting with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil. This comforting dish is then elevated with the addition of creamy burrata, a decadent touch of richness that melts in your mouth with every bite. It's a taste of Italian summer, effortlessly brought to your table.
A Quick Weeknight Meal (#weeknightmeal #italianfood)
This recipe is designed for the busy weeknight cook. It requires minimal prep time and cooking skills, making it the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave something delicious without the lengthy preparation. With readily available ingredients like pasta, cherry tomatoes, and basil, this dish is easily adaptable to your schedule and pantry staples. The entire process, from start to finish, can be completed in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients: Your Italian Pantry Essentials
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The star ingredients, cherry tomatoes and basil, provide a bright, fresh flavor base. The addition of creamy burrata elevates the dish to new heights, offering a luxurious and satisfying experience. Let's gather our ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape) | 250g |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 500g |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Heavy Cream | 120ml |
| Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped | 1/4 cup + extra for garnish |
| Burrata Cheese | 125g |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) | 1/4 cup |
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pasta Perfection
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices. This creates the base of our delicious tomato sauce (#tomato sauce).
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Divide the pasta between two bowls. Top each serving with half of the burrata cheese and sprinkle with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy! A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick for those who prefer a little heat.
Expert Tips and Variations for an Elevated Experience
- Tip: For a richer, deeper tomato flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 200°C / 400°F for 20 minutes before adding them to the sauce.
- Variation: Feel free to experiment! Substitute the burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese for a different creamy texture. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a welcome warmth. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; penne and rigatoni are great choices, but feel free to use your favorite shape (#pasta #penne #rigatoni).
Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Pairings
This Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta with Burrata is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate the dining experience. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would pair beautifully with the bright, fresh flavors (#crusty bread #sauvignonblanc #pinotgrigio). A simple green salad would also complement the dish nicely.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This dish is comforting and delicious without compromising on healthy ingredients. The nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Calories | 750-850 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 80-90g |
| Fat | 40-50g |
Ready to Create Your Culinary Masterpiece? (#comfortfood #foodie)
This Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta with Burrata recipe is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Head to your kitchen and start creating this delightful pasta dish! Don't forget to share your culinary creations with us on social media! We'd love to see your photos and hear your feedback.
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