A luxurious yet effortless pasta dish, Burrata Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts features perfectly cooked linguine tossed with blistered cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and toasted pine nuts. Topped with creamy burrata, which melts into the pasta, this dish is an elegant balance of richness and freshness—ideal for dinner parties or a refined weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the epitome of simple sophistication. The creamy burrata adds decadence, while the roasted cherry tomatoes and basil provide brightness and balance. It’s quick to prepare, relies on high-quality fresh ingredients, and delivers an impressive presentation with minimal effort. Perfect for vegetarians and easy to adapt, it’s a standout option for any pasta lover.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (mixed red and yellow)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1 large ball of burrata cheese
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 6–8 minutes until blistered and softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato mixture. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and half of the toasted pine nuts.
6. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large platter. Place the burrata cheese in the center.
7. Top with the remaining pine nuts and a generous crack of black pepper. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
8. Serve immediately, allowing the burrata to melt into the warm pasta for a rich and creamy finish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–3
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta without compromising texture or flavor.
• Add greens: Stir in baby arugula or spinach just before serving for added freshness.
• Use different nuts: Replace pine nuts with slivered almonds or walnuts for a variation in texture and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot chili oil before serving.
• Roasted garlic: Substitute fresh garlic with slow-roasted garlic cloves for a sweeter, deeper flavor.

Storage/reheating

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the burrata does not reheat well. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil. If possible, add a fresh piece of burrata or mozzarella when serving reheated portions for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of burrata?

Yes. While burrata provides a creamier texture, fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute.

How do I toast pine nuts?

Place pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to prevent burning.

Can I roast the tomatoes in the oven instead?

Absolutely. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes with olive oil and seasoning for a deeper caramelized flavor.

Is this dish served hot or cold?

It is best served warm to allow the burrata to melt into the pasta, enhancing the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and roast the tomatoes in advance, but assemble and serve with burrata just before eating to maintain the best texture.

Is burrata vegetarian?

Burrata is generally vegetarian, but check the label to ensure it does not contain animal rennet if following a strict vegetarian diet.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans can be added to increase the protein content without overwhelming the dish.

What type of pasta works best?

Linguine or spaghetti work well, but any long pasta such as fettuccine or tagliatelle can be used.

What does burrata taste like?

Burrata has a delicate, milky flavor with a rich, buttery interior. It pairs beautifully with acidic and herbal ingredients.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for this recipe, but if unavailable, use a very small amount of dried basil and add it with the garlic.

Conclusion

Burrata Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is an elegant yet approachable meal that captures the essence of fresh, seasonal cooking. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that delights with every creamy, herby, and slightly nutty bite. Perfect for summer evenings or any time you crave a taste of gourmet comfort.

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