Are you ready for a dish that’s as vibrant and refreshing as a sunny day? Look no further than this delightful Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad! Combining the rich, creamy texture of burrata cheese with the tangy brightness of fresh lemons and the crunch of pistachios, this pasta salad is an explosion of flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecue gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Not only does it quicken the pace of your meal prep, but it also dazzles your guests with its gorgeous presentation and fresh ingredients.
The key to this refreshing dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures – you have the al dente pasta, vibrant greens, and creamy cheese all harmonizing beautifully. The added bonus? It’s healthy, loaded with greens, and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it with extra lemon for a zesty kick or want to add more crunchy veggies, this recipe is versatile and sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is a culinary delight that hits all the right spots. Here are a few reasons why this dish is destined to become a favorite:
- Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of zesty lemon, creamy burrata, and crunchy pistachios make every bite a delicious experience.
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Customizable: You can switch up ingredients, add more greens, or even toss in different proteins if you desire.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing fresh greens and vegetables enhances both the taste and nutritional profile of the dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making lunch a breeze!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delectable Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad, it’s important to set the stage in your kitchen. Gather all your ingredients, ensuring they are fresh for maximum flavor. You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, and an airtight jar for making the vinaigrette. A large mixing bowl makes for easy tossing of all the ingredients together. Don’t forget to grab a sharp knife for cutting the burrata cheese and a zester or grater for adding extra zing from your lemons if desired.
Ingredients
This refreshing pasta salad requires just a handful of ingredients that you may already have in your pantry or fridge:
- ½ lb girelle pasta
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
- 1–2 cups arugula
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- Juice of 1–2 lemons
- Basil pesto, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the girelle pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Aim for al dente texture, which gives the salad a nice bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial because it prevents the pasta from becoming soggy when it’s mixed with the other fresh ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
For the vinaigrette, grab a jar with a lid and combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until everything is well combined. This will create a bright and zesty dressing that complements the salad beautifully. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning and lemon juice to your liking before setting it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, arugula, and grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Drizzle in the vinaigrette and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated. This is where you can add more lemon juice or arugula if you desire additional freshness. Once thoroughly mixed, it’s time to plate the salad.
Step 4: Top with Burrata and Serve
When plating the salad, place generous dollops of burrata on top. Its creaminess adds a luxurious touch to the dish. Drizzle with a bit of basil pesto for flavor depth and finish with the chopped pistachios and some extra grated cheese. Your Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
Variations
This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs such as chives or dill for extra freshness.
Cooking Notes
- Be cautious not to overcook the pasta; it should remain firm since it will absorb some liquid from the dressing.
- If you don’t have girelle pasta, any similar shape (like fusilli or rotini) will work well.
Serving Suggestions
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside fresh crusty bread to soak up any leftover vinaigrette.
Tips
- Make sure to use fresh burrata for the best flavor; check for creaminess and soft texture.
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to make the assembly quick and easy!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 420 kcal per serving
- Protein: 16 grams
- Sodium: 460 mg
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to store the burrata separately and add it just before serving.
What can I substitute for burrata?
If you can’t find burrata, you can substitute with fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a creamy alternative.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate and mix it just before eating to maintain freshness.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Certainly! Feel free to use any short pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or farfalle.
Conclusion
This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad truly embodies the essence of fresh, summer cooking. The delightful combination of creamy burrata, zesty lemon, and crunchy pistachios creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also refreshing. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it for yourself, this pasta salad is sure to impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your variations with friends and family!
Print
Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is a culinary delight featuring creamy burrata, zesty lemon, and crunchy pistachios for a refreshing summer dish.
Ingredients
- ½ lb girelle pasta
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
- 1–2 cups arugula
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- Juice of 1–2 lemons
- Basil pesto, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the girelle pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Aim for al dente texture, which gives the salad a nice bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- For the vinaigrette, grab a jar with a lid and combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until everything is well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, arugula, and grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Drizzle in the vinaigrette and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated.
- When plating the salad, place generous dollops of burrata on top. Drizzle with a bit of basil pesto for flavor depth and finish with the chopped pistachios and some extra grated cheese.
Notes
Feel free to customize the salad with different proteins or veggies as per your taste. Make sure the pasta is not overcooked.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Protein: 16 g