Introduction
This delightful spaghetti dish brings together fresh flavors and a touch of luxury with creamy burrata cheese. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, the aromatic garlic, and shallots, spiced with a hint of red pepper flakes, creates a vibrant sauce that delicately clings to the pasta. Every bite is enhanced by the richness of the burrata and the freshness of torn basil leaves, making this meal perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces spaghetti
3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 pound cherry tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 ounces burrata cheese
1 cup torn fresh basil leaves
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain the spaghetti well and stir in 1 teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, minced shallot, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to burst and soften.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the red wine vinegar, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Serve the Dish
Serve the cooked spaghetti immediately, topped with the warm tomato mixture. Add dollops of burrata cheese on top and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a fragrant finish.
Notes
Tip on Spaghetti Cooking
Ensure the water is generously salted for the best flavor of the pasta.
Choosing Tomatoes
Select ripe cherry tomatoes for a sweeter and more robust flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some moisture, so consider adding a drizzle of olive oil when reheating.
Cook techniques
Cooking Spaghetti
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sautéing Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, shallot, and cherry tomatoes. Cook while stirring until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, enhancing their flavor.
Finishing the Sauce
After the tomatoes have softened, remove the skillet from heat and add red wine vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper to balance the flavors before combining with pasta.
Plating the Dish
Serve the spaghetti topped with the sautéed tomato mixture. Add dollops of burrata cheese for creaminess and sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like linguine, fettuccine, or penne according to your preference.
What can I use if I can’t find burrata cheese?
If burrata cheese is unavailable, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta as a substitute, although the texture will differ slightly.
How do I store leftover pasta?
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed sausage for additional protein in the dish.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding olives, capers, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost to the dish.
Conclusion
This vibrant spaghetti dish featuring burst cherry tomatoes, rich burrata cheese, and fresh basil creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The aromatic garlic and shallots elevate the taste, while the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. A perfect meal for any occasion, it’s both simple to prepare and sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Replace the cherry tomatoes with sautéed garlic and olive oil for a classic, simple spaghetti dish.
Pasta Primavera
Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus to the tomato mix for a fresh twist.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Combine the cooked spaghetti with diced fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing salad.
Pasta with Pesto and Burrata
Toss cooked spaghetti with homemade or store-bought basil pesto, adding burrata cheese on top for creaminess.
Spaghetti with Roasted Vegetables
Roast a mix of seasonal vegetables such as eggplant, bell pepper, and zucchini and mix them with spaghetti for a hearty meal.
Garlic Lemon Pasta
Add lemon zest and juice to the garlic and olive oil mixture for a zesty flavor that complements the cherry tomatoes.
