This Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is bright and fresh! With creamy burrata, zesty lemon, and al dente pasta, it’s a dish that brings a smile to your face on any day.
Don’t you just love when meals are as fun to make as they are to eat? Toss in some cherry tomatoes and basil, and you’ve got a colorful treat! I enjoy it chilled on warm days, perfect for a picnic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Cavatappi is great for this salad because its shape holds sauce and ingredients nicely. If you can’t find cavatappi, any short pasta like fusilli or penne will work just as well!
Burrata: This creamy cheese is a must for richness. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative, though it won’t be quite as creamy. Alternatively, ricotta can be used for a different texture.
Pesto: I love using fresh basil pesto for its vibrant flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a homemade spinach or kale pesto or even a store-bought version to save time.
Arugula: This leafy green adds a peppery kick. If you don’t have arugula, spinach or baby kale can work too, but they will give a milder flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is key to this salad. Follow these steps for al dente pasta:
- Use plenty of water to allow pasta to move freely while cooking.
- Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water; it should taste like the sea.
- Check the pasta a minute before the package suggests. It should be cooked but still firm to the bite.
- Don’t forget to reserve some cooking water; it’s perfect for loosening your pasta salad later.
Perfectly cooked pasta provides the ideal base, ensuring each bite is just right in your lemon burrata salad!
Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz cavatappi or other short pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup fresh arugula, roughly chopped
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh burrata cheese (about 4 small balls or 2 large balls)
- 1/3 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped toasted pistachios or pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 20 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and then about 10 minutes to toss everything together and serve. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a classy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (typically around 7-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to save about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water for later.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. It should be zesty and flavorful!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Toss the drained pasta with the lemon-garlic dressing while it’s still warm. Add in the chopped arugula and gently mix everything together. If your pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help loosen it up.
4. Add the Burrata:
Transfer the pasta salad into a serving bowl. Tear the burrata into smaller chunks and scatter them on top of the salad. The creamy burrata will melt into the pasta beautifully!
5. Finish with Pesto and Cheese:
Dollop the fresh basil pesto over the top of the burrata and pasta. Finish off the salad by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over everything. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes, and for an extra crunch, toss on some toasted pistachios or pine nuts!
6. Serve:
Your salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately at room temperature, or if you prefer, chill it in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving. This salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
This fresh and creamy lemon burrata pasta salad is a perfect medley of vibrant flavors, making it an ideal side dish or light meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi works great due to its shape, you can use any short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or even bowtie. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the burrata and Parmesan cheese. You can replace the burrata with tofu or avocado for creaminess, and use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a cheesy flavor.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the dressing, so if it seems dry when reheating, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just adjust according to your preferences and what’s in season!
