Picture this: tender gnocchi nestled in a vibrant tomato sauce, topped with luscious burrata that oozes creamy goodness with every bite.
Sounds heavenly, right?
Well, get ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy Italian trattoria with our irresistible Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata recipe!
Let’s dive in and create some magic on your plate!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
- 1 pound fresh or store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 14-oz can of high-quality canned tomatoes)
- 2 balls of burrata cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients
The secret to making this dish truly shine lies in the quality of your ingredients.
Here are some tips:
- Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi from your local Italian deli is ideal, but high-quality store-bought gnocchi works well too. Look for packages with minimal ingredients.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are excellent if using canned.
- Burrata: Choose fresh, high-quality burrata. It should feel soft and pillowy, with a thin outer shell and creamy center.
Customization and Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some ideas:
- Add veggies: Toss in some baby spinach or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Incorporate proteins: Crumbled Italian sausage or crispy pancetta can add a delicious meaty element.
- Vegan option: Substitute burrata with a vegan mozzarella alternative and use your favorite plant-based gnocchi.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
Elevate your meal with the perfect wine pairing:
- Red wine lovers: A medium-bodied Sangiovese or Chianti complements the tomato sauce beautifully.
- White wine preference: Try a crisp Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay for a lighter option.
- Non-alcoholic: A sparkling water with a splash of lemon pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While this dish is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
- Burrata provides calcium and protein, though it’s high in fat, so enjoy in moderation.
- A typical serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
This dish is the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, ideal for a cozy night in or a dinner party showstopper.
Remember, the key to this recipe’s success lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
So go ahead, treat yourself to this little slice of Italy, and don’t forget to savor every creamy, tomatoey bite.
Buon appetito!
Recipe FAQ’s
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! Use whole wheat or cauliflower gnocchi, reduce the amount of burrata, and add more vegetables to the sauce.
What can I substitute for burrata if I can’t find it?
Fresh mozzarella or stracciatella cheese make good alternatives, though they won’t be quite as creamy as burrata.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance. Reheat the sauce and cook the gnocchi just before serving, then add the burrata.
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes diced (or 1 14-oz can of high-quality canned tomatoes)
- 2 balls of burrata cheese
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves torn
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Preparing the tomato sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cooking the gnocchi to perfection:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes).
- Drain the gnocchi, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Combining gnocchi with the sauce:
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
- Gently toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Adding the burrata topping:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Tear the burrata into pieces and dot them over the top of the gnocchi.
Garnishing and final touches:
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
- Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the dish.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.