Tomato Pasta with Burrata

Tomato pasta with burrata is a delightful and creamy Italian dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes, the creaminess of burrata cheese, and the comforting nature of pasta. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

What are the ingredients for Tomato Pasta with Burrata?

Certainly, here’s a description of each ingredient mentioned in the recipe you provided:

1. Pasta: Pasta is a staple ingredient made from wheat flour and water (and sometimes eggs). It comes in various shapes and sizes, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne. Pasta serves as the primary carbohydrate and base for the dish, providing texture and substance. For this dish I chose Penne.
2. Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic. It adds a pleasant, fruity flavor and healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.
3. Onion: Onions are aromatic vegetables that contribute a sweet and savory flavor to the tomato sauce when sautéed. They provide a foundational element of the sauce’s flavor profile.
4. Garlic: Garlic is a pungent and aromatic bulb that enhances the sauce’s taste with its robust and savory notes. It adds depth and complexity to the dish.
5. Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes, typically from a can, are a convenient way to create a tomato sauce base. They are made from ripe tomatoes that have been peeled, crushed, and cooked down. Crushed tomatoes provide a rich and tangy tomato flavor to the sauce.
6. Salt and Pepper: Salt and freshly ground black pepper are common seasonings used to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. They add a balance of saltiness and spiciness to the sauce.
7. Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves are a fragrant herb that contributes a refreshing and herbaceous aroma and flavor to the dish. They are used for garnish and can also be added to the sauce for additional depth of flavor.
8. Half-and-Half (Optional): Half-and-half is a dairy product that contains equal parts milk and cream. It’s used optionally to add creaminess to the sauce, creating a luscious texture and flavor.
9. Burrata Cheese: Burrata is a soft and creamy Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a delicate and rich flavor with a creamy interior. Burrata is torn and distributed over the finished pasta, imparting a luxurious and creamy element to the dish.

The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious and flavorful tomato pasta dish with the option to add creamy burrata for an indulgent twist.

What is tomato pasta high in?

Tomato pasta with burrata can be high in several nutrients and components, depending on the specific ingredients and preparation method used. Here are some key nutrients and components that may be present in tomato pasta with burrata:

1. Carbohydrates: Pasta is a significant source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
2. Dietary Fiber: Whole wheat or whole grain pasta can contribute dietary fiber to the dish, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
3. Tomatoes: The tomato sauce in this dish is rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin A), minerals (such as potassium), and antioxidants (like lycopene) that support overall health.
4. Olive Oil: The use of olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
5. Dairy Fat: Burrata cheese is a creamy cheese, so it contains dairy fat, which contributes to its rich and creamy texture.
6. Calcium: Cheese, including burrata, is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
7. Vitamins: The dish can be rich in various vitamins, such as vitamin K from basil and potentially other vitamins depending on the tomato sauce and cheese used.
8. Minerals: The dish can contain essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium from the cheese, tomatoes, and other ingredients.
9. Calories: Due to the presence of pasta, cheese, and olive oil, tomato pasta with burrata can be relatively high in calories. However, it can be a satisfying and nutritious meal when consumed in moderation.
10. Sodium: Depending on the preparation and any added salt, the dish may contain sodium, which should be monitored for those with dietary restrictions.

How to make Tomato Pasta with Burrata?

Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Afterward, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a spacious skillet or saucepan, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for approximately 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, introduce the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its aromatic fragrance. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Give everything a thorough stir to combine. Allow the tomato sauce to simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, occasionally stirring. This step helps the flavors meld and the sauce achieve a slight thickening. If the sauce appears too thick, feel free to add a splash of the pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Optional Creaminess: If you’d like to enhance the creaminess of the dish, you can introduce half-and-half into the sauce at this point. Mix it in thoroughly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the tomato sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the wonderful flavors of the sauce.

Plate and Garnish: Transfer the prepared pasta onto individual serving plates. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of freshness and color.

Add Creamy Burrata: Tear the burrata cheese open and distribute its creamy interior generously over the pasta. Your delicious tomato pasta with creamy burrata is now ready to be enjoyed!

If you like tomato-based pasta, check out these recipes:

• Baked Feta Pasta
• Tomato Pasta with Garlic Shrimp
• Easy Mussels Marinara