Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
When summer rolls around, I find myself craving light, refreshing dishes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad comes in. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for those warm evenings when you want something quick yet impressive.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a simple meal after a long day, this salad is your go-to. With creamy burrata, vibrant veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a dish that brings joy to the table and makes everyone feel special.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is a game-changer for busy days.
It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a breeze to whip up.
The combination of creamy burrata and fresh veggies creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Creating this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is as simple as gathering a few fresh ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: Fusilli or penne works best, providing a perfect base for the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet gems add a burst of color and flavor. Halve them for easy mixing.
- Fresh Arugula: This peppery green brings a delightful crunch and a hint of spice. You can swap it for spinach or mixed greens if you prefer.
- Burrata Cheese: The star of the show! Its creamy texture elevates the dish, making it indulgent yet light.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds a fragrant touch, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of this high-quality oil enriches the flavors and adds healthy fats.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: These bring a zesty brightness that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients help to elevate the flavors.
Feel free to get creative!
For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
And remember, the exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience.
How to Make Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Making this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant dish ready to impress.
Let’s dive into the details!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water.
Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water.
This helps cool it down and stops the cooking process.
You want that perfect bite!
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh arugula.
The colors will pop, and the aroma will be delightful.
Add the chopped basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
This dressing is the heart of your Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad.
It brings everything together with its zesty brightness.
Make sure to taste it; adjust the seasoning if needed!
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture.
Gently toss everything together until well coated.
Be careful not to break the pasta or the tomatoes.
You want each bite to be a burst of flavor!
Step 5: Add the Burrata
Now for the star of the show: the burrata cheese.
Tear it into pieces and add it to the salad.
Gently fold it in, allowing the creamy goodness to mix without breaking it too much.
This step adds a luxurious touch to your dish.
Step 6: Serve or Chill
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh experience.
Alternatively, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Either way, you’re in for a treat with this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad!
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality burrata for the creamiest texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key for the best bite.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A deep skillet can work in a pinch.
- Colander: To drain the pasta. A fine mesh strainer is a great alternative.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. Any large dish will do.
- Whisk: For mixing the dressing. A fork can also get the job done.
Variations
- Grilled Chicken: Add sliced grilled chicken for a protein boost and heartier meal.
- Chickpeas: Toss in canned chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option that adds texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Incorporate roasted bell peppers or zucchini for a smoky flavor.
- Different Greens: Swap arugula for spinach, kale, or mixed greens for a unique twist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a refreshing change.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy version of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
- Complement with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing touch.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Can I make Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What type of pasta works best for this salad?
I recommend using fusilli or penne. They hold the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes!
Can I add protein to the Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken or chickpeas are great options. They add a satisfying protein boost while keeping the dish light and refreshing.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers, and it will stay fresh for a few days. Just remember to add the burrata just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for burrata cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative. It won’t be as creamy, but it will still add a lovely texture to your Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together.
The vibrant colors and fresh flavors evoke the essence of summer, making every bite a celebration.
Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or sharing it with family at home, this dish radiates joy and warmth.
It’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delightful salad.
Trust me, it will become a cherished favorite in your summer repertoire!
Print
Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad: A Delightful Summer Dish!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and delightful summer dish featuring pasta, burrata cheese, and fresh vegetables, perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh arugula
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, arugula, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and add it to the salad. Toss lightly to incorporate without breaking the cheese too much.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Substitute the arugula with spinach or mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
