Indulge in the Simple Elegance of Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta
Escape the weeknight dinner rut with this creamy tomato pasta recipe – a symphony of sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the luxurious coolness of burrata cheese. This quick dinner is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest dishes offer the most profound satisfaction. This #easyrecipe is sure to become a family favorite!
The vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine shine through in every bite. Imagine the sweet, tangy burst of fresh tomatoes mingling with the earthy warmth of garlic, all enveloped in a velvety cream sauce. The fresh basil adds a delightful herbaceous note, perfectly complementing the rich, creamy texture. Then, picture the creamy heart of the burrata cheese melting into the warm pasta, adding another layer of indulgent flavor. This #comfortfood is the perfect embodiment of simple elegance.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta with Burrata
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape) | 340g (12 oz) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Crushed tomatoes | 794g (28 oz) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup + more for serving |
| Fresh basil leaves, chopped | 1/4 cup + more for garnish |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Burrata cheese | 227g (8 oz), 2 balls |
Instructions:
- 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 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, until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Divide the pasta among bowls. Top each serving with a ball of burrata cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetable boost: Sauté some chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the garlic for a more substantial meal.
This #pasta and #italianfood dish is a true weeknight winner. Its simplicity belies its exquisite taste; it's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and special, yet don't have a lot of time. The combination of creamy tomato pasta and fresh basil is a match made in heaven, further elevated by the creamy, dreamy texture of the burrata. Don't forget to use the hashtag #weeknightmeal when you share your culinary masterpiece on social media.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce. A glass of dry Italian red wine would complement the flavors beautifully.
Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Head over to FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. Let us know in the comments below how you enjoyed this basil pasta creation!