Description
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 ball burrata cheese, torn into pieces
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and basil. Cook for another minute.
Add the cooked tortellini to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
Plate the tortellini and top with torn burrata and toasted almonds.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 410 per serving Servings: 2 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Lemon Basil Burrata Tortellini every time.
- Prep Ingredients: Before heating your pan, ensure all ingredients are prepped. Mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon, chop the basil, grate the Parmesan, and toast the almonds in a dry skillet until fragrant and golden.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, typically 3-4 minutes for fresh or 7-9 minutes for dried. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Build the Sauce: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 60-90 seconds until fragrant, but do not let the garlic brown.
- Infuse Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Let this mixture simmer gently for about one minute to meld the flavors.
- Combine: Add the drained tortellini to the pan. Toss vigorously to coat every piece in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Finish and Plate: Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Divide the tortellini between two plates. Top each serving with torn pieces of creamy burrata and a sprinkle of toasted almonds.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, a side of roasted asparagus or broccolini, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up the luxurious sauce. For a beverage, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon and basil notes perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 20-minute meal involves cooking tortellini, creating a quick garlic-lemon-butter sauce in a pan, tossing the pasta in the sauce, and finishing with Parmesan, burrata, and almonds for a restaurant-quality dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes. While cheese tortellini is ideal, you can use other stuffed pastas like ravioli or even plain fettuccine. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) is the closest substitute. For a stronger flavor, try fresh ricotta or a dollop of creamy goat cheese.
How do I toast almonds without burning them? Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Stir constantly for 2-4 minutes until they turn light golden and smell nutty. Immediately transfer to a plate.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served immediately. However, you can prep ingredients (toast nuts, grate cheese, make herb mix) ahead. Reheating can cause the burrata to over-melt and the pasta to become soft.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian? This recipe is vegetarian as written. Ensure your tortellini and Parmesan cheese are made without animal rennet if following a strict vegetarian diet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Burnt garlic tastes bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is key for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Adding Burrata Too Early: Burrata should be a fresh, cool topping. Adding it to the hot pan will cause it to melt completely rather than creating creamy pockets.
- Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest are non-negotiable for the bright, vibrant flavor this dish is known for.
Conclusion
This Lemon Basil Burrata Tortellini is the ultimate quick yet impressive meal. By combining simple, fresh ingredients with a few key techniques, you create a dish bursting with creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s a perfect example of how a few quality components can transform weeknight cooking into a special dining experience. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
