Description
This irresistible cherry tomato pasta features al dente spaghetti tossed with sautéed cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and parmesan cheese, finished with creamy burrata for an indulgent yet simple Italian-inspired meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Seasoning
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 quarts water
- 1.5 tablespoons salt (for boiling water)
Sauce
- 2 pounds cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, pressed or grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 twists black pepper
- 0.125 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Garnish
- 15 leaves fresh basil
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 – 2 burrata (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring 3 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot, then add 1 ½ tablespoons of salt to season the water. Add the spaghetti and cook it until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly once done.
- Sauté the Garlic: While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pressed or grated garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook them for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release juices to form a light sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, add black pepper twists, and red pepper flakes to taste. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta thoroughly in the sauce.
- Finish with Basil and Cheese: Stir in fresh basil leaves and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Continue stirring until the cheese melts slightly, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top with one or two burrata balls if desired for added creaminess. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Burrata is optional but adds a luxurious creamy element to the pasta.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
- Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture ensures the best mouthfeel.
