This creamy lemon basil pasta is a bright dish that comes alive with fresh flavors! It features sun-dried tomatoes and a soft, yummy burrata that melts perfectly over the noodles.
Honestly, who can resist the combination of creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness? I love serving this with a sprinkle of extra basil on top—it just looks so fancy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using fettuccine for this dish, as it holds the sauce beautifully. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or linguine, which work just as well.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet and tangy kick! If you can’t find them in oil, dried sun-dried tomatoes work fine. Just soak them in hot water for 15 minutes to rehydrate before using.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base. If you are out, garlic powder can be a substitute, but I recommend fresh for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or even coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just keep an eye on the consistency.
Burrata: This cheese is so creamy! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a great alternative. It won’t be as creamy, but it’ll still taste delicious!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Creating that velvety sauce is key, and it all starts with careful cooking. Here’s how to nail it:
- When adding the cream, keep the heat on medium to avoid boiling it too fast. A gentle simmer allows it to thicken nicely.
- Mix in the lemon zest and juice early on to let the flavors meld together. The acid helps balance the creaminess!
- Don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water as needed—this helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency and lets the sauce cling to the pasta.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Adjusting the cream and pasta water to your taste will help you find that ultimate creaminess.
Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced (preferably packed in oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner, combining fresh flavors in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water—this will help with the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Look for that fragrant aroma, but be careful not to let it brown, as that can change the flavor.
3. Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and give them a quick cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re warmed through. This will enhance their flavor and get your sauce off to a great start!
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream along with the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly. This is where the magic happens!
5. Mixing in Herb and Cheese:
Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season your sauce with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you find the sauce too thick, feel free to add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency!
6. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Take the drained pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing well to coat every noodle in that luscious sauce. Make sure they’re all generously covered—yum!
7. Serving the Dish:
Now, it’s time to serve! Transfer the pasta to plates or a big serving bowl. Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and place them on top of the pasta. The creamy cheese will melt slightly and add an amazing touch!
8. Garnishing:
Finally, sprinkle some extra fresh basil on top for color. If you like a little kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy lemon basil pasta immediately and savor the delightful blend of flavors. This dish is sure to impress anyone!
Bon appétit! Enjoy the richness of the sauce paired with the bright flavor of lemon, basil, and the deliciously creamy burrata!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cream?
Absolutely! While heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream, but keep in mind it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before mixing in the cooked pasta. The taste will still be delightful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Burrata?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a great option! It won’t be quite as creamy, but it will still contribute a lovely texture and flavor to the dish.
