Name: Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz short pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle); 1/4 cup olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 garlic clove, finely minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/2 cup arugula (optional); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz burrata cheese; Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

A bright and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, creamy burrata, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. I find it’s the perfect dish for summer lunches, backyard gatherings, or even as a light dinner. The creaminess of the burrata pairs beautifully with the citrus notes and fresh greens, creating a harmonious bite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe blends vibrant, fresh flavors with the indulgent creaminess of burrata. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills. Whether I’m serving it at a picnic or preparing it ahead for weekday lunches, this pasta salad always delivers. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust to whatever herbs or greens I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz short pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle)

1/4 cup olive oil

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 2 lemons

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 garlic clove, finely minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

1/2 cup arugula (optional)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

8 oz burrata cheese

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once done, I drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

While the pasta cooks, I whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make a zesty dressing.

In a large mixing bowl, I toss the cooled pasta with the chopped basil, mint, arugula (when I’m using it), and cherry tomatoes.

Then I pour the lemon vinaigrette over the pasta and toss it gently to make sure everything is evenly coated.

I tear the burrata into bite-sized chunks and gently place it over the pasta salad.

For a little extra kick, I finish it off with more fresh herbs and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

I like to serve this pasta salad immediately, but chilling it for 30 minutes enhances the flavors even more.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and comes together quickly—perfect for busy days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories per serving: Approximately 420 kcal

Variations

When I want to mix things up, I try a few easy swaps. I’ve used orecchiette or penne in place of fusilli, and sometimes I swap the burrata for mozzarella pearls if that’s what I have. For a more filling version, I toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas. Swapping out basil or mint for dill or parsley also works great if I want a slightly different herbaceous flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since burrata doesn’t hold up well once mixed, I like to keep it separate and add it fresh just before serving if I’m making the salad ahead of time. I don’t reheat this dish—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Related Recipes:

Italian Herbs Cheese Bread

FAQs

What is burrata cheese and how is it different from mozzarella?

Burrata is a soft Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Unlike regular mozzarella, it has a creamy center that adds richness to dishes like this pasta salad.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the pasta and dressing ahead of time and store them separately. I assemble everything just before serving so the herbs stay fresh and the burrata remains creamy.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is vegetarian as it contains no meat or fish. Just be sure the burrata brand I choose doesn’t include animal rennet if strict vegetarian guidelines are important.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

I recommend using fresh herbs whenever I can for the best flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used dried herbs. I use one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I serve with this pasta salad?

This pasta salad pairs well with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a light soup. I sometimes serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more complete meal.

Conclusion

This Lemon Burrata Pasta Salad is a flavorful, fuss-free dish that brings a fresh, tangy twist to traditional pasta salads. I love how easy it is to prepare and how adaptable it is for different occasions. Whether I’m serving it at a picnic, a dinner party, or just enjoying it solo, it always hits the spot.

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