burrata canestri recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jul 30 2026
RestaurantsVela TorontoBurrata Canestri Recipe

Burrata Canestri Recipe

Inspired by Vela Toronto
Time30m
Serves2

Burrata canestri is a pasta dish featuring canestri pasta tossed with a creamy sauce made from burrata cheese, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. The dish is characterized by the richness of the burrata, the al dente texture of the canestri, and the fresh flavors of basil and garlic, highlighting a classic Italian comfort food experience. Here's how to make it at home.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Method

Preparation Instructions

1

Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the canestri pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2

Make the Spicy Rose Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add the heavy cream and chopped basil, and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3

Prepare the Pepita Pesto

In a food processor, combine pumpkin seeds, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

4

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked canestri pasta to the spicy rose sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Plate the pasta, and top each serving with a generous dollop of burrata cheese. Drizzle with pepita pesto and garnish with additional basil if desired.