Are you looking for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious dish to impress your friends and family? Look no further! Our Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of creamy burrata, crisp broccoli, and savory prosciutto, all brought together with a luscious basil ranch dressing. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a casual dinner, or simply want to elevate your meal prep game, this recipe is a must-try. Dive into the flavors and read on for a detailed guide to making this irresistible pasta salad.

What is Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad?
Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. It combines the creamy richness of burrata cheese with the fresh crunch of broccoli and the savory notes of prosciutto. The pasta serves as a hearty base, while grilled corn adds a sweet, smoky element. Tossed in a homemade basil ranch dressing, this salad is a symphony of taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad
Basil Ranch
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh basil
- ¼ cup fresh chopped chives
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta Salad
- 3 ounces prosciutto
- 1 pound short cut pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups grilled corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by tweaking the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some suggestions:
- Prosciutto: Substitute with crispy bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely or replace it with roasted chickpeas for added protein.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Whole wheat pasta can also be a healthier alternative.
- Broccoli: Swap with blanched asparagus or green beans for a different texture.
- Corn: If fresh corn is not available, use canned or frozen corn.
- Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto works just fine, but homemade pesto can elevate the dish even more.
- Burrata: Fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese can be used if burrata is not available.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Basil Ranch Dressing:
- In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, fresh basil, chopped chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Cook 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. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- If using fresh corn, grill the ears until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using canned or frozen corn, drain and rinse well.
- Cook the Prosciutto:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the prosciutto until crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped broccoli, grilled corn, and basil pesto. Toss until well mixed.
- Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and gently fold into the salad.
- Drizzle with the prepared basil ranch dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Crumble the crispy prosciutto over the top just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Undercooking the Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli just enough to retain its crunch while ensuring it’s not too raw.
- Skipping the Rinse Step: Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from sticking together.
- Not Using Room Temperature Burrata: Burrata is best used at room temperature for maximum creaminess.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad
This pasta salad can be served as a main dish or a side. Here are some serving ideas:
- Main Dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread and a light green salad for a complete meal.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, for a hearty accompaniment.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad
- Individual Portions: Serve in small bowls or on salad plates for an elegant presentation.
- Family Style: Present in a large, decorative salad bowl for a casual, communal dining experience.
- Garnish: Top with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Add the burrata and prosciutto just before serving to maintain their textures.
- Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as pasta salads can often need a bit more salt and pepper after chilling.
- Serving Temperature: This salad is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Avoid serving it straight from the refrigerator, as the flavors can be muted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad vegan? A: Yes! Substitute the burrata with a vegan cheese alternative, use vegan mayonnaise and yogurt for the basil ranch, and omit the prosciutto or replace it with a plant-based bacon.
Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge? A: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the burrata and prosciutto just before serving to keep them fresh.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Any short cut pasta, like rotini, farfalle, or cavatappi, works well in this salad.
Q: What if I don’t have basil pesto? A: You can make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Alternatively, a different herb pesto, like arugula or spinach, can also be used.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its vibrant colors, varied textures, and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any gathering or meal. Try it out, make it your own with our suggested variations, and enjoy the compliments from your guests. Happy cooking!
PrintBroccoli Burrata Pasta Salad Recipe
Discover a delightful Broccoli Burrata Pasta Salad with fresh basil ranch dressing. Perfect for a summer meal, this recipe features prosciutto, broccoli, and grilled corn.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Basil Ranch:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh basil
- ¼ cup fresh chopped chives
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- Pasta Salad:
- 3 ounces prosciutto
- 1 pound short cut pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups grilled corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn)
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
Instructions
- Prepare the basil ranch by blending yogurt/sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, basil, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- Crisp the prosciutto in a skillet over medium heat until crunchy.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped broccoli, grilled corn, and basil pesto.
- Tear the burrata and gently fold into the pasta salad.
- Add the basil ranch dressing and mix well.
- Top with crispy prosciutto before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- You can substitute the prosciutto with bacon if preferred.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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