This Fresh Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta is a bright and tasty dish! It features fresh tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and your choice of pasta—perfect for a sunny day.
I love how easy it is to make, and the colors make it look like a feast! Plus, the creamy burrata melts just right, making every bite feel like a warm hug. 🍅🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any pasta works, but I love spaghetti or linguine for this dish. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta which also tastes great!
Tomatoes: Fresh summer tomatoes are key! I prefer cherry or heirloom for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work as a substitute, but fresh really makes a difference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but fresh will always taste better. One or two cloves can be adjusted based on how garlicky you like it.
Burrata: Burrata has a creamy texture that’s hard to beat. If unavailable, fresh mozzarella can be a substitute, but it won’t have quite the same creaminess.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pasta Sauce?
The key to a great pasta sauce is how you combine the ingredients. Once the pasta is drained, reserve a bit of the cooking water! This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce.
- After adding the cooked pasta to the tomatoes, toss everything well. Start adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water.
- Keep stirring until the sauce coats the pasta nicely—watch for a creamy consistency without drowning the dish!
- Remove from heat before adding fresh basil; it keeps the bright flavor fresh.
Don’t forget to tear the burrata on top; it makes the dish feel special and delicious!
Fresh Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups fresh summer tomatoes (cherry, heirloom, or Roma), diced or halved
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
For the Topping:
- 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a summer dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente. Once it’s cooked, reserve 1 cup of the cooking water to use later, and then drain the rest of the pasta. Set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Just be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add the fresh summer tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften a bit but still keep their shape. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together gently, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water at a time until you achieve a light sauce that coats the pasta nicely. It should be creamy but not soggy!
5. Stir in Fresh Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the torn or chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
6. Plate and Add Burrata:
Serve the pasta on plates and tear the burrata cheese over the top. Let the creamy center spill out; it makes for a beautiful presentation!
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
For a finishing touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the pasta and (if desired) a splash of balsamic glaze for sweetness. Optional: add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some extra basil leaves on top for color and flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this fresh, summery pasta dish. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer! 🍝🌿
FAQ: Fresh Summer Tomato Burrata Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine is great, you can use any pasta you prefer, including penne or gluten-free options. Just follow the cooking time on the package for best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back its creaminess.
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative, though it won’t be as creamy. You can also try ricotta cheese for a different texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the burrata with avocado or a plant-based cream cheese alternative and skip the Parmesan. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
