Description
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fusilli, or penne)
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 ball burrata cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on the baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and slightly
caramelized.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
In a large bowl, toss the warm pasta with basil pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a smooth sauce.
Gently fold in the roasted tomatoes.
Transfer the pasta to serving plates and tear the burrata over the top.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 2
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pesto pasta with burrata. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet. Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 15-20 minutes until they burst and caramelize. While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot, drained pasta with the pesto, adding the reserved water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce to a creamy consistency. Gently fold in the roasted tomatoes. Plate the pasta, tear the creamy burrata ball over each portion, and finish with red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish is best served immediately while the burrata is luxuriously soft. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red such as Chianti.
How-to Summary
Roast tomatoes, cook pasta, and reserve water. Toss hot pasta with pesto and pasta water. Fold in tomatoes, top with torn burrata, and garnish with Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can roast the tomatoes and cook the pasta ahead, but combine everything just before serving to prevent the pasta from drying out and the burrata from losing its fresh texture.
What can I use instead of burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) or a dollop of ricotta cheese are excellent substitutes if burrata is unavailable.
How do I store leftovers? Store components separately if possible. Combined leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days; note that the pasta will absorb the sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan? Yes. Use a vegan pesto (often made with nutritional yeast), omit the cheese, and top with a vegan mozzarella or a drizzle of vegan cream.
Why is reserved pasta water important? The starchy water helps the pesto emulsify and cling to the pasta, creating a smoother, saucier consistency without dilution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when tossed with the sauce.
- Skipping the pasta water: This is crucial for achieving a creamy, cohesive sauce.
- Adding cold burrata straight from the fridge: Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes for the best creamy texture.
- Over-mixing after adding the burrata: Gently tear and place it on top to preserve its beautiful, oozy center.
Conclusion
This Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes and Burrata is a stunning yet simple dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of vibrant pesto, sweet roasted tomatoes, and decadent burrata creates a restaurant-quality meal in about 30 minutes. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this impressive recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!