Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, you must try this Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes. It’s a vibrant celebration of textures and flavors—creamy burrata meets the nutty richness of pistachio pesto, with juicy bursts of cherry tomatoes adding just the right amount of brightness. This dish feels like a little escape to a sunlit Italian kitchen every time you make it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet pack a powerful punch. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s creating a velvety texture, layering complex flavors, or adding a pop of color to the plate.

• 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti): Choose your favorite shape—it will hold the pesto beautifully and provide satisfying bite.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness brighten the dish and create wonderful contrast.
• 1 ball fresh burrata: Soft, creamy, and luxe, it adds an indulgent creaminess that’s pure comfort food.
• ¼ cup toasted pistachios (for topping): These add irresistible crunch and enhance the pistachio flavor in the pesto.
• Fresh basil for garnish: A fresh herbal note that ties the entire dish together with its aromatic charm.
• Pistachio Pesto:
• ½ cup shelled pistachios: The base for the pesto’s distinct nuttiness and texture.
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves: Bright and fragrant, basil balances the richness perfectly.
• 2 cloves garlic: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• ½ cup olive oil: Creates a silky texture and helps meld all flavors seamlessly.
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese: Brings savory umami and a slight saltiness that elevates everything.
• Juice of ½ lemon: Adds a refreshing zing to brighten the pesto.
• Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance flavors.

How to Make Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by boiling salted water and cooking your pasta until it is al dente—meaning it still has that perfect, slight bite to it. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy liquid is key to making your sauce silky and clinging perfectly to every noodle.

Step 2: Blend the Pistachio Pesto

While the pasta cooks, pop your shelled pistachios, fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a blender. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil as you blend to create a luscious, creamy pesto. Stop blending when you reach a smooth yet slightly textured consistency for the best mouthfeel.

Step 3: Toss Pasta with Pistachio Pesto

Immediately after draining, mix the hot pasta with your pistachio pesto. Add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly and cling luxuriously to every piece. The heat from the pasta will slightly warm the pesto, releasing its aromatic flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata

Gently fold the halved cherry tomatoes into the pasta or scatter them on top for a more striking presentation. Next, transfer everything to a serving bowl and nestle a ball of fresh burrata right in the center. This creamy wonder will slowly melt into the warmth of the pasta as you eat.

Step 5: Finish with Garnishes

Drizzle a little olive oil over the dish, sprinkle freshly cracked pepper, and scatter toasted pistachios and fresh basil leaves on top. This final touch adds crunch, fragrance, and a pop of green color that makes the dish truly irresistible.

How to Serve Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes

Garnishes

Beyond the toasted pistachios and basil, consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or some lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor complexity. These garnishes not only enhance the taste but also bring a beautiful finishing touch to your plate.

Side Dishes

This Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty bread. These sides complement the creamy pasta without overwhelming its delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor, try serving the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl, letting everyone tear into the burrata themselves. Alternatively, for a sophisticated touch, plate individual portions with microgreens and edible flowers that highlight the dish’s vibrant colors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of this Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the burrata separate if possible, as it’s best enjoyed fresh for that creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh cheese and pesto components, which can separate or lose their texture upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store leftovers only briefly in the fridge.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently over low heat or in the microwave with short bursts to avoid drying out the pasta. Add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios in the pesto?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can work, but pistachios give this pesto its unique flavor and color. If substituting, toast the nuts lightly for deeper flavor.

Is burrata necessary, or can I use mozzarella?

Burrata offers a rich, creamy texture that mozzarella just can’t match. However, fresh mozzarella can be a suitable substitute if burrata is hard to find, though the experience will be slightly different.

How long can I store leftover pesto?

Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to help prevent oxidation and keep it vibrant.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, by substituting Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative and replacing burrata with a creamy plant-based cheese or simply omitting it. The pistachio pesto will still shine bright.

What pasta shape works best for Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes?

Shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti are ideal as they hold the pesto and create a lovely texture contrast with the creamy burrata. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape, though.

Final Thoughts

This Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata & Cherry Tomatoes is truly a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Once you make it, be prepared for lots of compliments and requests to share the recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with its comforting flavors as much as I have!

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