The creamy burrata nestled atop a bed of lemon‑dressed girelle pasta is as visually stunning as it is flavorful—the cheese oozes decadence while pistachios and Parmigiano add textural contrast. Fresh arugula leaves peek through, lending a peppery note that balances the citrusy vinaigrette.
Perfect for a sunny lunch, potluck, or light dinner, this salad delivers gourmet appeal with minimal effort. With just a handful of quality ingredients, it transforms into a sophisticated dish that feels indulgent yet vibrant and refreshing.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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½ lb girelle (spiral‑shaped) pasta
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½ cup extra‑virgin olive oil
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Juice of 1–2 lemons
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Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1–2 cups fresh arugula
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1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
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8 oz burrata cheese (1 ball)
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¼ cup chopped pistachios
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Basil pesto, to taste
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and let it cool slightly.
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In a small jar or bowl, whisk or shake together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the warm pasta with vinaigrette, arugula, and grated Parmigiano. Adjust lemon, salt, or pepper to taste. Let pasta cool to room temperature.
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Transfer to a serving plate or bowl. Top with the whole burrata ball. Drizzle extra olive oil and basil pesto over the top. Scatter chopped pistachios and extra Parmigiano around burrata.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: approximately 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 2–4
A Refreshing Twist on Pasta Salad
The Lemon Burrata Girelle Pasta Salad is not just another pasta dish—it’s a celebration of contrasting textures and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Perfectly cooked girelle pasta serves as the ideal base, with its spiral shape designed to catch every drop of the zesty lemon vinaigrette. What makes this salad exceptional is its beautiful balance: the rich creaminess of burrata cheese, the fresh bitterness of arugula, and the nutty crunch of chopped pistachios. It’s a dish that bridges simplicity and elegance, making it a favorite for casual lunches, al fresco dinners, and special gatherings alike.
The Inspiration Behind the Dish
Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this dish is a modern interpretation of pasta salad that avoids the heavy mayonnaise-based dressings and instead leans into the brightness of citrus and the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients. Burrata, a luxurious cheese made from mozzarella and cream, takes center stage, offering a luscious texture that melts beautifully into warm pasta. The lemon dressing is a nod to southern Italian cuisine, where citrus is often used to add freshness and depth. The addition of pistachios and Parmigiano Reggiano enhances the experience with a satisfying crunch and a salty umami kick.
Perfect for Every Season
While it’s especially popular in summer due to its lightness and fresh components, the Lemon Burrata Girelle Pasta Salad is truly an all-season dish. In the warmer months, it complements grilled vegetables and proteins wonderfully. During cooler months, it provides a welcome burst of brightness on the plate. Its adaptability lies in how it pairs well with seasonal ingredients: add roasted squash in fall or fresh peas in spring, and the salad evolves without losing its core essence.
Entertaining Made Easy
This pasta salad is an entertainer’s dream. It can be made ahead of time, holds up well on a buffet table, and looks incredibly inviting with its creamy burrata centerpiece and colorful green and yellow accents. The dish doesn’t need to be reheated and in fact tastes even better at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld naturally. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, picnic, or dinner party, this salad fits effortlessly into your menu. Its elegance is matched by its simplicity, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to impress your guests.
The Power of Simple Ingredients
One of the most attractive aspects of this dish is how it transforms a few simple ingredients into something spectacular. Girelle pasta, though uncommon in many households, is worth seeking out for its shape and texture, making each bite more exciting. Arugula adds not just color but a peppery freshness that complements the lemon and balances the richness of the cheese. Parmigiano and pistachios introduce a savory crunch that brings everything together. This is a prime example of a dish where ingredient quality matters more than quantity.
Why Burrata Works So Well
Burrata elevates this salad from good to unforgettable. Unlike traditional mozzarella, burrata has a creamy interior that oozes out when cut, instantly coating the pasta and greens in velvety richness. It acts as both a cheese and a sauce in one, blending beautifully with the lemon vinaigrette for a unique mouthfeel. The contrast of warm pasta and cool, creamy cheese also adds a sensory dimension that diners can’t resist.
The Lemon Factor
Lemon does more than brighten this dish—it unifies it. The acidity cuts through the fattiness of the burrata and cheese, refreshing the palate with each bite. It also enhances the natural flavors of the arugula and pistachios. This citrus-based dressing proves that you don’t need a long list of spices to create depth in a dish. Just the right balance of acidity and oil can turn a humble salad into a refined meal.
A Flexible Canvas for Creativity
One of the best parts about this pasta salad is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it based on what’s available in your fridge or garden. Swap arugula for baby spinach or kale. Add sliced cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness or grilled zucchini for smokiness. If you’re craving protein, top it with grilled shrimp, sliced chicken, or even flaked salmon. The base recipe provides a solid foundation for endless experimentation without compromising its integrity.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Not only is this salad great for gatherings, but it also excels as a meal prep option. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it for lunch the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, and while the burrata is best served fresh, it can be torn and mixed into the salad before packing. It’s a practical option for those looking to eat well without much fuss during the week.
Aesthetic Appeal for Social Sharing
Let’s be honest—this dish is Instagram gold. The creamy white burrata contrasts beautifully with the green arugula, golden pasta, and vibrant pesto drizzle. Topped with crushed pistachios and Parmigiano shavings, it looks like something served at a boutique Italian café. Whether you’re a food blogger, content creator, or just someone who enjoys posting beautiful meals, this salad delivers on visual appeal.
Health Benefits in Every Bite
Beyond flavor and presentation, the Lemon Burrata Girelle Pasta Salad offers several nutritional perks. Arugula is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and K. Pistachios provide healthy fats and protein. Lemon adds vitamin C, while Parmigiano contains calcium and probiotics. While burrata is an indulgence, using it in moderation brings satisfaction without going overboard. It’s a feel-good recipe that proves healthy and indulgent can coexist.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Salad
The Lemon Burrata Girelle Pasta Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a complete dish that celebrates the joy of eating fresh, seasonal, high-quality ingredients. It manages to be light yet filling, simple yet sophisticated. Whether you serve it as a standalone lunch, a starter for a multi-course meal, or a side dish at your next get-together, it will quickly become a staple in your rotation.
From its creamy cheese core to its bright citrus edge, this salad proves that the best meals don’t need to be complicated. All it takes is intention, a few great ingredients, and a willingness to let the natural flavors shine. Let it inspire your next culinary creation.