This light and zesty lemon burrata pasta salad is a treat! With fresh pasta, creamy burrata, and a burst of lemon flavor, it’s perfect for any meal.
Who can resist the gooey goodness of burrata? I love how quick it is to make—just toss everything together, and it’s ready to brighten your day! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use cavatappi here for its texture, but you can switch to penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure the pasta is short and can hold the sauce well!
Burrata Cheese: Burrata adds creaminess that’s hard to beat. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a nice alternative, though it won’t be as creamy. Feta can work too, but it will give a different flavor.
Arugula: Arugula brings a peppery kick! If it’s not available, try spinach, which has a milder taste, or even kale, just give it a good chop and massage to soften it.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time! If you prefer homemade, blend basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil. Sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach pesto can introduce a twist!
How Do You Make the Perfect Lemon Dressing?
The lemon dressing is the heart of this salad; it brings everything together. Here’s how to nail it!
- Whisk together the lemon zest and juice with olive oil. The zest adds a powerful lemony flavor that brightens up the dish.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. This balances the acidity from the lemon.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine vinegar.
- Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning until it’s just right for your palate.
Remember, a fresh lemon can make a big difference, so choose a juicy, vibrant one for the best flavor!
Easy Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cavatappi or your favorite short pasta
- 1 cup fresh burrata cheese, torn into chunks
- 1 1/2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or chilled slightly. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi (or your pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down a bit. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Lemon Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. This will create a zesty and bright lemon dressing that will nicely complement the dish.
3. Combine the Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to your bowl of lemon dressing. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated with the dressing. The lemon flavor should shine through!
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Gently fold in the fresh arugula and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, depending on your preference.
5. Serve It Up:
Transfer your delicious pasta salad to serving bowls or a large platter. Now comes the best part—garnish it with the torn burrata cheese and spoon dollops of basil pesto over the top.
6. Final Touches:
Finish the salad by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and some toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios for a nice crunch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the salad immediately while it’s fresh and the burrata is creamy. If you’d like, you can also chill it slightly before serving. This bright, creamy, and herbaceous salad is perfect for a quick side or a light main dish!
Enjoy every bite of your lemon burrata pasta salad! 🍋
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even rigatoni. Just make sure it’s a shape that pairs well with the creamy ingredients!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness, I recommend leaving the burrata off until you’re ready to serve again, as it’s best eaten fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pasta and make the lemon dressing a few hours in advance. Keep the arugula and burrata separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If you don’t have burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative, though it lacks the creaminess. Alternatively, crumbled feta or goat cheese can also work well, providing a different flavor profile!
