When you think of summer flavors, the classic combination of fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese often comes to mind. One dish that beautifully captures these elements is the Caprese Pasta with Burrata. This vibrant and colorful pasta recipe is a delightful representation of Italian cuisine, combining the simplicity of pasta with the freshness of a Caprese salad.
Why We Love This Caprese Pasta with Burrata Recipe
Caprese Pasta with Burrata is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a medley of fresh ingredients that come together to create a delightful symphony on your palate. The tender pasta acts as the base, while the roasted cherry tomatoes add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Adding to this are the earthy notes of fresh basil and the creamy richness of burrata, making each bite beautifully balanced.
Another reason to love this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients, yet the flavors are anything but basic. You don’t need to be an expert chef to create this dish; it’s straightforward enough for a beginner, and the outcome is always impressive. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients about Caprese Pasta with Burrata
To bring this delightful dish to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 7 oz / 200 g Spaghetti (or long cut pasta of your choice)
- 10.5 oz / 300 g Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 5 oz / 150 g ball of Burrata, or similar size (bring to room temperature)
- 1 small bunch of Fresh Basil, roughly chopped (saving some whole small leaves for garnish)
- 3 cloves of Garlic, finely diced
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
How to Make Caprese Pasta with Burrata Directions
Creating Caprese Pasta with Burrata is a simple yet rewarding process that involves several steps. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a 9×9″ baking dish, whisk together the finely diced garlic, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should have a slightly thick consistency that will coat the tomatoes beautifully. Once this base is prepared, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are well coated in the mixture.
Now it’s time to roast the tomatoes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Once this time has elapsed, remove the dish and give the tomatoes a gentle stir. They should start to soften, but they need a bit more time in the oven. Return the dish to the oven and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes. By the end, the tomatoes should be soft and slightly wrinkled, releasing their natural juices and flavor.
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. When it reaches a rolling boil, add your spaghetti (or pasta of your choice) and cook it until it reaches al dente. Remember, the goal is to have your pasta firm yet tender. Crucially, do not drain the pasta! Instead, reserve some of the pasta water, as it will help to create the sauce later.
Once the tomatoes are done roasting, transfer the cooked spaghetti directly from the pot into the baking dish with the tomatoes. This allows any excess pasta water to mingle with the sauce, enhancing the flavor and texture of the dish. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated with the tomato mixture.
At this stage, add the roughly chopped fresh basil and toss once more. The warm pasta will release the aromatic oils of the basil, elevating the dish with every bite. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and black pepper if needed.
To serve, plate your spaghetti, placing a generous amount on each plate. Add fresh basil leaves on top for a finishing touch, and place the ball of burrata in the center. When serving, slice open the burrata to let its creamy center spill out, creating an irresistible presentation. Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy this sensational dish!
How to Serve Caprese Pasta with Burrata
Presenting Caprese Pasta with Burrata is nearly as delightful as preparing it. The visual appeal of this dish stands out, as the vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil create a beautiful contrast against the pasta.
When serving, use large, shallow bowls or plates to allow for a generous portion of the spaghetti. The centerpiece of this dish is undoubtedly the burrata, so take the time to arrange it elegantly. After slicing the burrata, let it sit in the sunshine of the ingredients, with the creamy interior begging to be spooned over the pasta.
To elevate your serving style, consider adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a splash more of balsamic vinegar around the edges of the plate for that extra touch. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a few chili flakes if you want a hint of crunch and heat. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a visually appealing aspect to your dish. Finally, enjoy your Caprese Pasta with Burrata with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, making every meal experience savory and satisfying.
Expert Tips: Caprese Pasta with Burrata
To ensure your Caprese Pasta with Burrata turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: The success of this dish relies heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and good-quality burrata for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be mindful of the cooking time for your spaghetti; overcooked pasta can become mushy and detract from the overall dish.
Reserve Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. It helps to bind your pasta and tomato sauce together, lending a creamier feel.
Experiment with Herbs: While fresh basil is a classic choice, you can experiment with other herbs like oregano or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Season Gradually: Always taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end. A pinch too much salt or pepper can alter the taste significantly, so it’s best to go slowly until you achieve the desired flavor.
How to Store Caprese Pasta with Burrata
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s often too delicious to have any!), storing your Caprese Pasta with Burrata is straightforward. Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s essential to note that the burrata is best enjoyed fresh. The creamy texture may change when refrigerated, so consider adding a fresh ball of burrata when you reheat the pasta.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. You can use a microwave for convenience, but stovetop reheating is preferable as it allows you to control the heating process better. Just add a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce as you warm it up.
Variation of Caprese Pasta with Burrata
There are plenty of ways to mix things up with your Caprese Pasta with Burrata to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some variations you may want to consider:
Add Protein: Incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp can turn your pasta dish into a heartier main course. Simply add the protein during the mixing stage with the spaghetti.
Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as a substitute. The flavors of the dish will shine through regardless of the pasta type.
Zoodles: For a low-carb variation, consider spiralizing zucchini to create zoodles. These can be a refreshing alternative and pair well with the same tomato and burrata combination.
Try Different Cheeses: While burrata is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
FAQ Section
What is Caprese Pasta with Burrata?
Caprese Pasta with Burrata is a delicious Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy burrata cheese. It’s a flavorful summer dish using fresh ingredients.
How do I make Caprese Pasta with Burrata?
Start by roasting cherry tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Cook spaghetti until al dente, then combine the pasta and tomatoes with fresh basil. Serve with a ball of burrata on top for an incredible finish.
Can I prepare Caprese Pasta with Burrata in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the creamy texture of the burrata, you can prepare the tomato mixture and cooked pasta ahead of time. Just reheat and add fresh burrata before serving.
Caprese Pasta with Burrata
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 7 oz Spaghetti (or long cut pasta of your choice)
- 10.5 oz Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 5 oz Burrata, or similar size (bring to room temperature)
- 1 small bunch Fresh Basil, roughly chopped (saving some whole small leaves for garnish)
- 3 cloves Garlic, finely diced
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a 9x9 baking dish, whisk together the finely diced garlic, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast the tomatoes for about 10 minutes. Stir and return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until soft and slightly wrinkled.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.
Combining
- Transfer the cooked spaghetti directly from the pot into the baking dish with the roasted tomatoes.
- Toss everything together gently, adding the roughly chopped fresh basil and adjusting seasoning if needed.
Serving
- Plate the spaghetti, adding a generous portion per plate.
- Top with whole basil leaves and place the ball of burrata in the center.
- Slice open the burrata to let its creamy center spill out and enjoy!