Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Italian summer in just one bite - creamy, fresh, and bursting with flavor. This Pasta Checca with Burrata is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Perfect for those lazy summer evenings or when you want to impress your dinner guests with minimal effort, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 ball of burrata cheese
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While the water is heating, prepare the cherry tomatoes by washing and cutting them in half. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
- Drain the pasta and transfer it directly into the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
- Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and tear the burrata cheese over the top, allowing its creamy center to melt slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped, and drizzle with an extra touch of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the burrata is creamy.
Tips
- Use the freshest cherry tomatoes possible for maximum flavor burst
- Don't overcook the garlic - 30-45 seconds is the sweet spot to prevent bitterness
- Reserve pasta water is crucial for creating a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
- Tear the burrata just before serving to maintain its luxurious, creamy texture
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Italian taste
- Choose pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine that can hold the sauce well
- Fresh basil is non-negotiable - it elevates the entire dish's aroma and taste
- Serve immediately to enjoy the burrata at its most creamy and decadent state
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 445kcal
Carbohydrates: 51g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
