Looking for a light and refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table? Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. This vibrant salad combines al dente pasta, creamy burrata cheese, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or as a simple weeknight meal, it’s a delightful way to celebrate summer flavors.
Ingredients for Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad:
For the Salad:
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300 g (10 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli, farfalle, or orecchiette)
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200 g (7 oz) burrata cheese (about 2 medium balls)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach
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1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
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1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Dressing:
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 2 lemons (about 4–5 tbsp)
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1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, finely minced
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance acidity)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Required Kitchen Tools
To prepare Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
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Large pot for cooking pasta
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Colander or strainer
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Large mixing bowl
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Small bowl or jar for mixing the dressing
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Whisk or fork
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Zester or fine grater
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Tongs or salad servers for tossing
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
2: Prepare the Lemon Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake the dressing until emulsified and smooth.
3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, arugula (or baby spinach), and basil leaves.
Pour the lemon dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4: Add the Burrata
Gently tear the burrata cheese into pieces and scatter it over the salad.
If using, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
5: Season and Serve
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips for Making or Serving Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
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Choose the Right Pasta: Short shapes like fusilli or orecchiette work best as they hold the dressing and ingredients well.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente for the perfect texture.
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Use Fresh Burrata: The creamier and fresher the burrata, the more luxurious your salad will taste.
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Make It Ahead: The salad (without burrata) can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Add the burrata and pine nuts just before serving for the best texture.
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Variations: Add grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
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Pairing: This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crusty bread.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
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Calories: ~450 kcal
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Protein: ~16 g
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Carbohydrates: ~40 g
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Fat: ~25 g
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Saturated Fat: ~10 g
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Fiber: ~4 g
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Sugar: ~4 g
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Sodium: ~300 mg
Please note that these values are approximate and will vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Try This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad Today!
There you have it — a bright, creamy, and irresistibly fresh Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, planning a light lunch, or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this salad is a crowd-pleaser.