Pasta Salad with Pesto, Peas, and Burrata

Name: Pasta Salad with Pesto, Peas, and Burrata
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 225 g fusilli pasta (or other short pasta); 1 cup frozen peas (thawed); 2 balls burrata cheese (torn into pieces); 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted); 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin); 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy a refreshing pasta salad with vibrant pesto, sweet peas, and creamy burrata.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. This recipe combines the rich flavours of homemade pesto with the sweetness of peas and the creaminess of burrata for a delightful meal. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is sure to impress. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.

Pro tip: Rinsing the pasta helps cool it down quickly for the salad.

Prepare peas and pine nuts

In a small skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. If using frozen peas, ensure they are fully thawed.

Pro tip: Keep a close eye on the pine nuts as they can burn quickly.

Mix the salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, peas, and pine nuts. Add the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon zest, and juice. Toss gently to coat.

Pro tip: Use a large spoon to ensure the pesto evenly coats the pasta.

Season the salad

Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Pro tip: Remember that burrata will add some creaminess and richness to the overall taste.

Add the burrata

Gently fold the torn burrata into the pasta salad, being careful not to break it up too much.

Chill and serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.

Pro tip: Chilling the salad enhances the flavours and makes it more refreshing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh peas when in season for extra sweetness.
Chill the salad before serving for a refreshing experience.
Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pasta salad with pesto?

A pasta salad with pesto typically includes pasta, a pesto sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, and cheese, and various add-ins like vegetables or cheese.

How do you make a pasta salad with pesto?

Cook pasta, mix with pesto, add ingredients like peas and burrata, toss together, season, and chill before serving.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. Store it in the fridge and add burrata just before serving.

What type of pasta is best for pasta salad?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or penne work well as they hold the sauce and mix-ins effectively.

How long should I cook the pasta for a salad?

Cook the pasta until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta used.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta salad as a main course or a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. You can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just add the burrata and give it a quick toss before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

14g

Protein

22g

Fat

This refreshing pasta salad combines tuna, corn, and cherry tomatoes for a nutritious and easy-to-make meal.

Easy55 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Kitchen Organisation · Utensil Holders

DOWAN 7.6" 360° Rotating Utensil Holder, Kitchen Utensil Holder for Countertop,Large Ceramic Utensil Crock for Kitchen Counter, Protection Cork Bottom, White

$46.99

Food Prep · Meat Tenderisers

Aliglow Meat Tenderizer Hammer Tool Mallet Pounder for Kitchen Tenderizing Steak Beef Poultry

$13.49

Pit Boss Grills

9" Smoker Tube

$12.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.