This light and zesty Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is perfect for a sunny day! With creamy burrata, fresh lemon juice, and colorful veggies, it’s both pretty and tasty.
Feel free to add whatever veggies you like! I often toss in some cherry tomatoes and basil. Every bite feels like a little burst of sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend cavatappi or rotini for their fun shapes that hold sauce well. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to use chickpea or lentil pasta instead – they add great protein too!
Arugula: This adds a peppery bite. If you can’t find it, baby spinach or watercress can work as a substitute while keeping the salad fresh.
Burrata: This creamy cheese is a star here! If it’s hard to find, fresh mozzarella is a great alternative, though it won’t be as rich.
Pesto: Whether you make it at home or purchase it, pesto really elevates the dish. For a lighter version, use a basil-infused olive oil for a nice flavor.
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is key for this salad. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta is tender yet still has a little bite. Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The water should taste like the sea—this adds flavor to the pasta.
- Once boiling, add the pasta and stir to prevent sticking. Set a timer based on the package instructions.
- Start testing the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time; you want it to hold its shape without being mushy.
- When done, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down for the salad. This also prevents it from sticking together.
By cooking pasta just right, you’ll create the best foundation for your delicious Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad!
Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as cavatappi or rotini)
- 1 cup arugula, roughly chopped
- 1-2 lemons, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 cup burrata cheese, torn into small pieces
- 1/3 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or chopped pistachios for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 15 minutes mixing everything together and garnishing! It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be cooked but still have a bit of firmness. Once done, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. This way, it’s ready for your salad!
2. Make the Lemon Dressing:
While the pasta is boiling, take your lemons and zest and juice them. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This will create a bright and zesty dressing that will flavor your pasta wonderfully.
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Add the drained pasta into the bowl with the lemon dressing. Toss it well to make sure every piece of pasta is coated with that tasty lemon goodness. It’s looking good already!
4. Add the Greens and Cheese:
Gently fold in the chopped arugula and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to break apart the pasta too much; you want to keep that nice shape. These greens will add a pop of color and freshness!
5. Assemble the Salad:
Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving bowl. Now, let’s add the burrata cheese! Dollop small spoonfuls of the burrata on top of the pasta. It looks so inviting already!
6. Add Pesto and Final Touches:
Spoon the pesto over the burrata and pasta, distributing it evenly so everyone gets that delicious flavor. Then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re feeling a little extra, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped pistachios for a nice crunch and a bit of heat. You can serve the salad right away, or if you prefer it chilled, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Either way, enjoy the fresh, creamy, and zesty flavors of this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad!
This salad is a lovely blend of textures and flavors, with the creamy burrata perfectly complementing the bright lemon and aromatic pesto, making it an ideal dish for any occasion! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and rotini work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to what you choose!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can make the pasta and dressing ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and combine them just before serving. This helps keep the burrata fresh and silky!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, just give it a quick stir before serving again.
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute. While it won’t be as creamy, it will still add a nice texture to the salad. You could also try using ricotta for a different take!
