Sweet Garlic Tomato & Basil Casarecce

Introduction

There’s something utterly comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s infused with the sweet flavors of roasted garlic and fresh basil. When I first tried the Sweet Garlic Tomato & Basil Casarecce, it was love at first bite. The creamy burrata melting into the rich tomato sauce creates a luxurious experience that had my family raving about it. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. The combination of roasted garlic, bright basil, and decadent burrata makes it a standout dish that transports you straight to Italy.

Ingredients

To create this delicious pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. casarecce pasta
• 2 bulbs of garlic
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (approximately, for roasting garlic)
• Salt to taste
• 6 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 28 oz. tomato passata
• 1 Parmesan rind
• 8 oz. burrata
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Roast the Garlic:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Peel the garlic cloves from the two bulbs and place them in a small oven-safe baking dish. Pour enough extra virgin olive oil to fully submerge the garlic cloves.
• Season with salt to taste and roast the garlic, uncovered, in the oven for 45 minutes, until the cloves are soft and lightly golden.
• Once roasted, remove the garlic confit from the oven and mash the garlic cloves with a fork. Set aside the mashed garlic and reserve the garlic-infused olive oil for later use.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to cook until it starts to bubble and turns a light caramel brown color.
• Add the tomato passata, the mashed garlic confit, and the Parmesan rind to the pot. Pour in the reserved garlic-infused olive oil for extra flavor and season with salt to taste.
• Stir the sauce and let it simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Cook the Pasta:

• While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the casarecce pasta and cook until it is al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Remove the Parmesan rind from the sauce and take the sauce off the heat.
• In a large sauté pan, add the cooked pasta, the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter, and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta over medium heat, stirring gently to combine the sauce and pasta. Add more pasta water as needed, 1/4 cup at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

1. Serve:

• Plate the pasta and top each serving with a generous amount of burrata, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra olive oil.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this dish!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve this delightful pasta dish warm.
• Garnish with:
• Fresh basil leaves
• Additional burrata or mozzarella
• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil
• Pair with:
• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread
• A glass of white wine or sparkling water

Additional Tips

1. Parmesan Rind: This adds depth of flavor to the sauce; be sure to remove it before serving.
2. Burrata: For a creamy contrast, burrata is ideal, but feel free to substitute with mozzarella if necessary.
3. Garlic Confit Oil: Save the garlic-infused olive oil; it enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
5. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil for a brighter, more vibrant taste.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
• Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish for extra protein.
• Different Cheeses: Try using goat cheese or feta for a different creamy texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Enjoy with a side of toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a pan, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes! You can substitute casarecce with any pasta shape you prefer.

1. What if I can’t find burrata?

• You can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a similar creamy texture.

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

• Yes, use plant-based butter and omit the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.

1. How can I make the sauce richer?

• Add a splash of heavy cream or a bit more butter for a creamier sauce.

1. Can I prepare the garlic confit ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The garlic confit can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

1. What is tomato passata?

• Tomato passata is a smooth tomato puree that is often used in sauces. You can substitute it with crushed tomatoes if needed.

1. How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

• The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Check the package instructions for cooking times.

1. Can I add meat to this dish?

• Yes! Grilled chicken or sausage can be delicious additions.

1. What should I do with leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently.

1. How long does it take to prepare this dish?

• Total time is around 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Conclusion

Sweet Garlic Tomato & Basil Casarecce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant ingredients, this pasta dish brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, whether a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

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