Description
12 oz pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
8 oz burrata cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp honey
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated in the dressing.
Tear the burrata cheese into small pieces and gently add it to the pasta.
Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, tossing gently to combine.
If using, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 350 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, as per the package directions. While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing: in your serving bowl, vigorously whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is fully emulsified. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water. Add the hot pasta directly to the bowl with the dressing and toss thoroughly, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Let the pasta cool for 5 minutes. Then, gently tear the burrata into rustic chunks and fold them into the pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil. Finish by sprinkling with toasted pine nuts for a final touch of texture.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta salad is excellent served slightly warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with balsamic glaze or grilled proteins like lemon-herb chicken or shrimp. To elevate the presentation, serve it on a large platter garnished with whole basil leaves, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a crack of black pepper. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a vibrant side dish at summer barbecues.
How-to Summary
Cook pasta al dente and drain. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Toss the warm pasta in the dressing. Gently fold in torn burrata, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Top with toasted pine nuts and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? Yes, but for the best texture, prepare the dressing and cook the pasta separately. Combine all components, except the burrata, up to a day in advance. Add the burrata and final toss just before serving to prevent it from becoming too watery.
What can I use instead of burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine) is the best substitute. For a dairy-free option, try marinated tofu cubes or a creamy vegan cheese alternative.
How do I properly toast pine nuts? Place them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Shake the pan frequently for 2-4 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Watch them closely as they burn easily.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Short shapes with ridges or holes like farfalle, rigatoni, or orecchiette work well as they hold the dressing. For a healthier twist, whole wheat or chickpea pasta are great options.
Why did my burrata make the dish watery? This often happens if the burrata is added while the pasta is too hot, or if it’s stirred too vigorously. Ensure the pasta has cooled slightly and fold the cheese in gently to maintain its creamy pockets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will become mushy when mixed with the other ingredients. Do not skip salting your pasta water—it’s essential for flavoring the pasta itself. Resist the urge to stir the burrata aggressively; gentle folding preserves its luxurious texture. Finally, ensure your dressing is well-emulsified before adding the pasta to guarantee even coating and flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
This Burrata Pasta Salad is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both elegant and effortless. The combination of creamy burrata, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty lemon dressing is guaranteed to impress. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. It’s a perfect, crowd-pleasing dish that proves minimal effort can yield maximum flavor.