Description
Rigatoni with Roasted Tomatoes & Burrata
This dish is a perfect combination of creamy burrata, sweet roasted tomatoes, and hearty rigatoni pasta. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, making this pasta dish a flavorful and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
8 oz rigatoni pasta
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 ball of burrata cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked pasta with the roasted tomatoes, adding a little pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Plate the pasta and top with the burrata cheese.
Garnish: Drizzle the pasta with extra olive oil, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, and add a generous amount of cracked black pepper. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are in a single layer for even roasting. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they burst and caramelize. While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, according to package directions. Before draining, reserve at least 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. In the now-empty pot, combine the hot pasta and roasted tomatoes with their juices. Toss well, adding splashes of the reserved pasta water until a glossy, light sauce coats the noodles. Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl or individual plates. Gently place the whole ball of burrata on top.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is best served family-style in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the burrata. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce and cheese. A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and acidic flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: roast tomatoes until caramelized, cook pasta al dente, reserve pasta water, toss pasta and tomatoes with reserved water to create sauce, top with burrata, and garnish with basil, pepper, and optional Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make any parts of this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the tomatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently before tossing with the pasta.
What can I use if I can’t find burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) is the best substitute, though it won’t be as creamy. Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to mimic burrata’s richness.
How do I prevent the pasta from drying out? The reserved starchy pasta water is crucial. It helps create an emulsion with the olive oil and tomato juices, forming a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Is it necessary to use the optional Parmesan cheese? Not at all. Burrata is rich and flavorful on its own. Add Parmesan only if you desire an extra layer of salty, umami flavor.
Can I add protein to this pasta? Absolutely. Cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or white beans would be excellent additions. Incorporate them when tossing the pasta with the tomatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water before draining, resulting in a dry dish.
- Overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften slightly when tossed with the hot tomatoes.
- Breaking the burrata into the pasta before serving. It should be placed whole on top so guests can enjoy the dramatic, creamy reveal.
- Underseasoning the tomato roasting step. Proper seasoning at every stage builds depth of flavor.
Conclusion
This Rigatoni with Roasted Tomatoes & Burrata is a deceptively simple dish that delivers maximum flavor and a luxurious texture. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is both impressive and comforting. The key lies in the quality of a few fresh ingredients and the technique of using pasta water to create a perfect sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.