Rigatoni with Burrata and Burst Tomatoes Recipe

Introduction

There’s something truly special about a plate of pasta that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting dish. One of my go-to recipes for those busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen is Rigatoni with Burrata and Burst Tomatoes. The first time I made this dish, it was an instant hit with my family. The creamy burrata melted over the hot pasta, combining beautifully with the sweet, juicy tomatoes that burst in your mouth. Each bite was a delightful balance of flavors and textures, and it quickly became a staple in our home. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity—perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
• For Serving:
• 2 balls fresh burrata cheese (about 8 oz total)
• Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, for garnish
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rigatoni:

• Boil Water:
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook Pasta:
  Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Burst the Tomatoes:

• Heat Oil:
  While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté Garlic:
  Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add Tomatoes:
  Add the cherry or grape tomatoes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Cook Tomatoes:
  Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices. You can gently press some of the tomatoes with a spoon to help them burst. Stir in the balsamic vinegar for added depth (if using).

3. Combine the Pasta and Tomatoes:

• Toss Together:
  Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the burst tomatoes and toss to combine.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency:
  If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.

4. Add Burrata:

• Plate the Pasta:
  Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large platter.
• Tear Burrata:
  Tear the burrata into pieces and place them on top of the hot pasta, allowing the creamy center to melt slightly into the dish.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Add Fresh Basil:
  Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Serve Immediately:
  Enjoy the creamy, flavorful combination of burrata and burst tomatoes while the dish is hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 540 kcal
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Hot and Fresh: Serve the pasta hot with the creamy burrata melted on top.
• With Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Sprinkle with Extras: For those who love a bit more heat, add additional red pepper flakes on top.
• Garnish: Fresh basil not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish hinges on the quality of the tomatoes and burrata, so choose the best you can find.
2. Adjust the Spice: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
3. Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds freshness.
4. Cooking Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente is key for texture.
5. Serving Size: This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Herbed Sauce: Infuse the sauce with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut cream into the sauce for a creamier texture.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Weeknight Dinners: Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Dinner Parties: Impress guests with this elegant yet simple meal.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of white wine or a light red pairs beautifully with this pasta dish.
• Lunch Leftovers: Great for lunch the next day, as the flavors meld even more overnight.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The pasta can be frozen in individual portions. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary.
• Burrata Note: If you plan to freeze leftovers, add the burrata fresh when you reheat for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different pasta shapes?

• Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

1. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when ready to eat.

1. What can I use instead of burrata?

• Fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can be used if burrata is unavailable.

1. How spicy is this pasta?

• The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of red pepper flakes used in the sauce.

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

• Yes! Fresh tomatoes can be used; just chop them up and adjust the cooking time as needed.

1. What can I substitute for sugar?

• You can use honey, maple syrup, or even omit it entirely if you prefer a more savory sauce.

1. How can I thicken the sauce?

• Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it or add a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.

1. Can I make this vegan?

• Yes, substitute burrata with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure the pasta is egg-free.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

• Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

1. How long does the sauce last in the fridge?
   • The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Rigatoni with Burrata and Burst Tomatoes is a celebration of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. With its rich and creamy burrata paired with the sweet burst of tomatoes, it’s a dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. This pasta dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Rigatoni with Burrata and Burst Tomatoes will surely become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the delightful experience of this exquisite pasta dish!

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