Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta
Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes
I absolutely love making Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta for date nights or special occasions. The combination of creamy burrata and ripe, juicy tomatoes creates a dish that looks and tastes elegant without requiring an extensive amount of time in the kitchen. It’s become one of my go-to recipes because of its simplicity and stunning presentation. Plus, the fresh basil adds incredible flavor, making every bite feel like a special treat. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and impress someone special with your culinary skills!
When I made this Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised at how easily it came together. The tomatoes, bursting with flavor, become the star of the dish, while the burrata adds a luscious creaminess that elevates the meal. I recommend using high-quality ingredients, especially ripe heirloom tomatoes, to ensure the best results.
After multiple attempts, I've found that a finishing drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving makes a significant difference. It not only enhances the flavor but also gives the pasta a beautiful sheen. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy burrata adds richness to fresh tomatoes
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
- Perfect blend of flavors that impresses at the table
Understanding the Key Ingredients
The star of the Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta is undoubtedly the burrata cheese. Its creamy interior and delicate outer shell create a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the acidity of the cherry tomatoes. When choosing burrata, look for fresh varieties that are well within their expiration date to ensure the best texture and flavor. A good quality burrata will have a rich, milky taste that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Ripe cherry tomatoes are essential for achieving the sweetness and depth of flavor in this dish. Ideally, you want them to be vibrant and firm, which will enhance the overall texture of your pasta. Overcooked tomatoes can lose their shape and flavor, so keep an eye on them while sautéing. If you prefer a substitute, consider using grape tomatoes or heirloom varieties for an interesting twist.
Cooking Techniques for Success
Cooking the pasta to perfection is crucial. Always start with a large pot of salted water; a general rule is about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. This not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps it achieve the right al dente texture. Remember to reserve that cup of pasta water; it’s packed with starch that will help bind your sauce and pasta together seamlessly.
When sautéing the garlic and tomatoes, using medium heat allows you to develop flavors without burning the garlic. Aim for a light golden color on the garlic, which will signal it’s ready for the tomatoes. If you notice the garlic browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat. The tomatoes should blister and soften—this caramelization adds a hint of sweetness that balances the creamy burrata beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful pasta dish:
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or your favorite type)
- 250g burrata cheese
- 500g ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Make sure to use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Here’s how to prepare your Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the tomatoes are soft and blistered, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors from the tomatoes.
Serve with Burrata
Remove from heat and gently mix in the burrata. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your delicious romantic dinner!
Pro Tips
- For added depth of flavor, you can roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
For a striking presentation, consider serving the pasta in shallow bowls, which allows the burrata to take center stage. You can tear the burrata into pieces for a rustic look, or serve it whole for a more dramatic effect. Drizzling a touch of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving will enhance the dish’s aroma and flavors.
Pair this pasta with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the burrata. A simple side salad with peppery arugula and a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
If you're planning on making this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and sauté the sauce separately, then combine just before serving. This way, the pasta will retain its texture, and the tomatoes will remain vibrant. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to eat, you can quickly combine and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
While burrata is best served fresh, if you happen to have leftovers, it’s still possible to enjoy them the next day. Just be mindful to consume the dish within 24 hours to avoid compromising the quality of the burrata. It’s not advisable to freeze burrata, as it will change texture upon thawing, but leftover pasta without the cheese can be frozen for up to a month.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with mozzarella if burrata is not available.
→ What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly!
Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta
I absolutely love making Romantic Tomato Burrata Pasta for date nights or special occasions. The combination of creamy burrata and ripe, juicy tomatoes creates a dish that looks and tastes elegant without requiring an extensive amount of time in the kitchen. It’s become one of my go-to recipes because of its simplicity and stunning presentation. Plus, the fresh basil adds incredible flavor, making every bite feel like a special treat. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and impress someone special with your culinary skills!
Created by: Megan Scott
Recipe Type: Home Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or your favorite type)
- 250g burrata cheese
- 500g ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the tomatoes are soft and blistered, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors from the tomatoes.
Remove from heat and gently mix in the burrata. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added depth of flavor, you can roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the pasta.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g