Lemon Herb Burrata Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic
Welcome to a delicious journey with this Lemon Herb Burrata Spaghetti paired with Roasted Garlic. This delightful dish combines the creaminess of burrata cheese, the tanginess of lemon, and the fragrant aroma of roasted garlic, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation will impress both your family and guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Lemon Herb Burrata Spaghetti is a feast for the senses. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and the luxurious creaminess of burrata creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and satisfying. The roasted garlic adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of 45 minutes, you’ll find this recipe to be as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this pasta dish will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients needed for this mouthwatering dish. Each component complements the others, ensuring a flavorful meal that is uniquely satisfying.
For the Roasted Garlic:
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (about 2 balls)
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)
- Extra basil leaves for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Roasting the Garlic: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your whole garlic bulb and slice off the top to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt on top, and wrap the bulb in foil. Roast it in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves out and mash them into a paste.
Step 2: Cooking the Pasta: While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until it reaches al dente perfection. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Step 3: Making the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the roasted garlic paste and lemon zest. Stir for about 1 minute to release a beautiful aroma. Next, add the lemon juice, chopped basil, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir everything together to create a cohesive sauce.
Step 4: Tossing it All Together: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it with the sauce until the pasta is thoroughly coated. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add more pasta water as needed. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
Step 5: Serving It Up: To serve, divide the pasta evenly into bowls. Place a ball of burrata on top of each serving and gently break it open to allow the creamy center to flow into the spaghetti. Finish with extra basil leaves for garnish and optionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, feel free to substitute it with your favorite pasta type such as fettuccine, linguine, or even penne for a different texture.
Is burrata cheese necessary in this recipe?
While burrata adds a luxurious creaminess, you can substitute it with another soft cheese, such as fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese, if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dish will keep for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is inherently vegetarian as it does not contain meat. Just ensure that you do not add any meat-based products while preparing or serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a kick of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking for a fiery flavor boost.
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Burrata Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic is a symphony of flavors that is simple yet impressive. Perfectly balancing the freshness of herbs and the rich creaminess of burrata, this dish will leave everyone at your table satisfied and asking for seconds. Try it out for your next meal and elevate your pasta night to new delicious heights!
