Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with freshness, creaminess, and vibrant flavors all at once, then you absolutely must try this Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata. It’s one of those recipes that combines zesty lemon, aromatic basil pesto, and the luscious creaminess of burrata cheese, creating a mouthwatering harmony that feels both elegant and wonderfully satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this pasta is sure to become a cherished favorite on your menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a shining example of how simple, quality ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Each component— from the bright lemon peel to the rich burrata— plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that bring this dish to life.

• 200 g (7 oz) spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta for perfect sauce coating and bite.
• 1 small garlic clove: Adds a subtle aromatic punch without overpowering the freshness.
• Peel of 1 large lemon (avoid the bitter white pith): The zest infuses the pesto with a bright citrus fragrance.
• Juice of ½ lemon: Brings tartness and balances the richness of the cheese and nuts.
• 1/3 cup (40 g) toasted pine nuts: Provides nutty depth and a little crunch.
• 8 fresh basil leaves: Freshness and green color elevate the pesto to aromatic perfection.
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated parmesan: Adds salty, savory umami to the mix.
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil: Smooths out the pesto and enriches its texture.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
• 2-3 tbsp reserved pasta water (from cooking): Helps loosen the pesto so it beautifully coats the pasta.
• 1 ball burrata: The crowning glory that melts into a creamy, dreamy topping.
• Optional toppings – extra basil, lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, EVOO: For that finishing touch to wow your guests.

How to Make Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil— this is key for perfectly cooked pasta. Toss in your spaghetti or linguine and cook it until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. This magical liquid will help you create a glossy, silky sauce later on.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Pesto

In a food processor or blender, combine the lemon peel, half the lemon juice, toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, grated parmesan, garlic, a pinch of salt, and the olive oil. Pulse everything until you get a pesto that’s mostly smooth but still holds a little texture — you want to taste the pine nuts and basil coming through in every bite. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning or lemon juice if you love a little tangier kick.

Step 3: Combine with Pasta

Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large pan set over a low heat. Add your lemon pesto along with 2 to 3 tablespoons of that reserved pasta water. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each strand is coated with the luscious sauce. If the pesto feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more pasta water until it flows beautifully and shines.

Step 4: Serve With Burrata

Now for the best part— divide the pasta between your serving bowls. Tear the burrata ball over the top in generous chunks, allowing its creamy interior to mingle with the warm pasta. Finish off with freshly cracked black pepper and if you want to elevate it further, add extra basil leaves, a sprinkle of lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

How to Serve Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata

Garnishes

To really make your Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata shine, don’t skip on garnishes. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of green and a herbaceous aroma, while extra lemon zest delivers an aromatic citrus burst. Toasted pine nuts add that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft burrata. A final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil will bring everything together with silky richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta is so flavorful it can hold center stage on its own, but pairing it with light, fresh sides elevates the meal. A crisp mixed greens salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette complements the citrus notes perfectly. Roasted asparagus or charred cherry tomatoes bring vibrant color and extra texture. Warm crusty bread for mopping up every bit of sauce is always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve your Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata on shallow white bowls to let the vibrant greens and creamy white cheese pop visually. You can tear the burrata into rustic chunks and scatter it casually for an inviting, artisanal look. If you want to impress, add edible flowers or microgreens scattered on top for color and a touch of elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata keep best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because burrata is delicate and creamy, it’s best to store it separately and add fresh when reheating the pasta, to keep its lovely texture intact.

Freezing

This particular pasta dish is not ideal for freezing because the texture of the burrata and the fresh lemon pesto will change upon thawing. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it fresh or refrigerate only.

Reheating

When reheating your pasta, gently warm it in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, stirring carefully to keep it glossy and delicious. Add fresh burrata right after heating for that creamy, luxurious finish.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pine nuts for the pesto?

Absolutely! While toasted pine nuts give that classic buttery, nutty flavor, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if preferred. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before blending.

Is burrata the same as mozzarella?

Not quite. Burrata has a creamy, buttery center that mozzarella doesn’t have. It melts beautifully on warm pasta, lending a rich, velvety texture that makes this dish so special.

Can I make the lemon pesto in advance?

You can prepare the lemon pesto a few hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge — just stir in extra olive oil before tossing with the pasta to refresh its texture.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti or linguine are ideal because their long strands grab the pesto so well. However, feel free to experiment with fettuccine or even short pasta like penne if that’s what you have on hand.

How do I avoid the burrata from breaking down too much on the pasta?

Tear and add the burrata at the very end right before serving. This way, it gently melts into the pasta without losing its creamy texture or becoming fully incorporated into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Making Lemon Pesto Pasta with Burrata is like inviting sunshine to your dinner table. It’s fresh, comforting, bright, and effortlessly elegant all at once. I encourage you to try this recipe soon— it’s guaranteed to become a go-to meal that sparks joy every time you make it. So grab your ingredients, gather someone you love, and dive into this delightful Italian-inspired feast!