Easy Pasta With Roasted Tomato And Burrata
Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen Magic
I absolutely love making Easy Pasta with Roasted Tomato and Burrata, as it's an effortless yet impressive dish. The combination of sweet, caramelized tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a delicious harmony of flavors. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Using ingredients that are likely already in my pantry, I can whip this up in no time. It’s a comforting meal that never fails to delight everyone at the table, from adults to kids.
When I first tried this recipe for Easy Pasta with Roasted Tomato and Burrata, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it was. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, which perfectly balances the creamy burrata. I often layer this dish by combining different pastas, which adds a fun twist and a variety of textures.
One tip I've discovered is to drizzle a bit of good-quality olive oil over the top just before serving. It not only enhances the dish's richness but also brings all the flavors together beautifully. This has quickly become a staple in our home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet roasted tomatoes bursting with flavor
- Creamy burrata that adds a luxurious touch
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
- A show-stopping dish that's perfect for entertaining
The Role of Tomato and Burrata
The sweet cherry tomatoes are the star of this dish, providing a delightful burst of flavor when roasted. Their natural sugars caramelize in the oven, enhancing their sweetness and adding a slightly smoky taste, which beautifully complements the creamy burrata. For an added depth of flavor, try mixing in garlic or balsamic vinegar with the tomatoes before roasting—these elements can add an enticing layer to the final dish without overwhelming the simple elegance.
Burrata cheese, with its rich and creamy interior, infuses the pasta with a luxurious texture. Unlike traditional mozzarella, burrata offers a unique creaminess that melts slightly into the hot pasta, creating a rich sauce. When you tear into the burrata, its creamy center mingles with the pasta and roasted tomatoes, creating a comforting and indulgent experience. Remember to let the burrata come to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its creamy texture.
Cooking Techniques to Enhance Your Dish
When roasting the tomatoes, ensure they are spread out on the baking sheet to avoid steaming. If they’re too close together, they won't caramelize properly and may end up mushy. Look for the tomatoes to start bursting and show some charred bits after around 20 minutes—this indicates that they are perfectly roasted. If you like a bit of char, consider increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Don’t forget about the pasta cooking process! Salt your water generously; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself. Cooking until al dente is crucial—this extra bite helps the pasta hold up against the creamy burrata and juicy tomatoes. Remember to reserve some pasta water, as its starchiness can help bind the sauce together, enhancing the overall texture without adding extra oil or cream.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Topping
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Steps
Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking tray, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly and roast them for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized.
Cook the Pasta
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Combine and Serve
In a large bowl, mix the hot pasta with the roasted tomatoes, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Top with pieces of burrata and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the roasting process. Additionally, using seasonal heirloom tomatoes can elevate the flavor even more.
Make-Ahead Tips
For those busy weeknights, you can prep the roasted tomatoes ahead of time. Simply roast them according to the recipe, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat them briefly in the microwave or toss them in the pan with your freshly cooked pasta for a quick warm-up.
You can also cook the pasta and store it separately. Toss the pasta with a little olive oil before storing it; this will help prevent it from sticking together. Combine it with the tomatoes and burrata right before serving for a fresh meal that’s still quick to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices. I love serving it with a light, lemony arugula salad topped with shaved Parmesan; the peppery greens complement the sweet tomatoes perfectly. You can also toss in some toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
For an elevated touch, consider a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving. A dash of red pepper flakes can also brighten the flavors for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The vibrant colors and aromas will make this dish not only delightful to taste but also visually appealing on your table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella or ricotta will work well too.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the pasta with gluten-free options available in stores.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
→ Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be a great addition for some extra protein.
Easy Pasta With Roasted Tomato And Burrata
I absolutely love making Easy Pasta with Roasted Tomato and Burrata, as it's an effortless yet impressive dish. The combination of sweet, caramelized tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a delicious harmony of flavors. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Using ingredients that are likely already in my pantry, I can whip this up in no time. It’s a comforting meal that never fails to delight everyone at the table, from adults to kids.
Created by: Ottilie James
Recipe Type: Easy Kitchen Magic
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta and Topping
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking tray, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly and roast them for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized.
While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
In a large bowl, mix the hot pasta with the roasted tomatoes, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Top with pieces of burrata and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the roasting process. Additionally, using seasonal heirloom tomatoes can elevate the flavor even more.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g