This Blistered Tomato Burrata Pasta Salad bursts with fresh, creamy, and smoky flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or vibrant side dish that's easy to make and sure to impress!
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Burrata, Easy, Pasta Salad, Quick, Summer, Tomato, Vegetarian
Servings: 4servings
Ingredients
8ouncespastafusilli or penne work beautifully
2cupscherry tomatoeshalved
2tablespoonsolive oil
salt and pepperto taste
8ouncesburrata cheese
1/4cupfresh basil leavestorn
1clovegarlicminced
1/4teaspoonred pepper flakesoptional
1tablespoonbalsamic vinegar
turkey baconcooked and crumbled (optional topping)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Set aside.
Blistering the Tomatoes
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes cut side down in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until the skins are blistered and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
Preparing the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in about 1 tablespoon more olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and blistered tomatoes along with their flavorful oil from the pan. Toss gently to combine. Pour the garlic-balsamic dressing over the pasta mixture and toss again to coat evenly.
Tear the burrata into chunks and add it to the salad. Toss gently so the cheese doesn’t completely break down but mixes slightly to create creamy pockets throughout the salad. Add the torn fresh basil leaves and fold them in to distribute their fragrance and flavor.
For an extra layer of texture and savory goodness, sprinkle cooked and crumbled turkey bacon over the top of the salad. This adds a smoky crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata and sweet tomatoes.
Serve the salad immediately at room temperature or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or as a standout side dish at your next gathering.
Equipment
Large Pot
Large Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Small Bowl
Notes
Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness in the salad.
Blistering the tomatoes enhances their sweetness and adds smoky flavor.
Add burrata cheese last to maintain its creamy texture in the salad.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the dish's heat level.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for best freshness.