This creamy lemon basil pasta is a sunshine-filled dish that bursts with flavors! The sun-dried tomatoes add a tasty twist, while the burrata cheese makes it extra rich and comforting.
Honestly, who can resist that gooey burrata? I like to mix it in for a creamy surprise in every bite. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil, and you’re ready for a delicious meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can use linguine or penne depending on your preference. Gluten-free pasta also works great in this recipe if you’re avoiding gluten!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer rich flavor. If you have dried tomatoes, you can rehydrate them in hot water for about 15 minutes, then chop them up. This works in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, feel free to substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you want a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the texture and richness.
Burrata: Burrata is delicious, but you can swap it for fresh mozzarella or ricotta if it’s hard to find. Each has its own creamy texture that will still complement the dish wonderfully!
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The key to a perfectly creamy sauce is simmering the cream gently. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your olive oil and sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning it.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and let them soften before pouring in the cream.
- Keep the heat on medium to low while you let the cream thicken; stirring occasionally helps avoid sticking.
- If at any point your sauce feels too thick, slowly mix in the reserved pasta water until it’s the right consistency.
Remember to taste and adjust with more lemon, salt, or pepper to get the perfect balance of flavors!
Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Finish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Optional garnish: extra basil leaves and lemon zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll be enjoying your creamy lemon basil creation in no time, so gather your ingredients and get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before you drain it!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute—just until it’s fragrant but not browned. We want lovely garlic flavor without the bitterness!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss the sliced sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This adds some delicious richness and flavor to your sauce!
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Allow it to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—this is where the magic happens!
5. Mix in the Lemon and Cheese:
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Mix everything well to form a dreamy creamy sauce. Season it yours with salt and pepper to taste—adjust to your preference!
6. Combine Pasta with Sauce:
Gently add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing it to fully coat in that luscious sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve the desired consistency.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the freshly chopped basil leaves, giving a fresh, fragrant touch to your creamy dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Top each serving generously with creamy burrata cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the hot pasta.
9. Final Touch:
For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delicious creamy lemon basil pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne. If you prefer a gluten-free option, there are many great gluten-free pasta varieties available that work just as well!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover creamy lemon basil pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce and keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! This dish is already vegetarian-friendly, but if you’d like to make it vegan, you can substitute the burrata with a plant-based cheese and use a dairy-free cream alternative. Enjoy a creamy, delicious meal without the dairy!
