Lemon Basil Orzo with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
Introduction
Bright, creamy, and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, Lemon Basil Orzo with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is an elegant yet effortless dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining. Tender orzo pasta is tossed with fragrant basil, zesty lemon, garlic, and olive oil, then topped with creamy burrata and crunchy roasted pine nuts for a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. Ready in about 30 minutes, this restaurant-worthy recipe is ideal as a light main course or a flavorful side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors
– Creamy burrata with crunchy roasted pine nuts
– Ready in just 30 minutes
– Perfect for entertaining or weeknight meals
– Easy to customize with seasonal vegetables
Ingredients
For the Orzo
– 12 ounces orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– ½ cup chopped fresh basil
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
– 2 balls fresh burrata cheese
– ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves
– Freshly cracked black pepper
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Optional Add-Ins
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Baby spinach
– Grilled chicken
– Grilled shrimp
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of the reserved pasta water.
4. Add the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese, tossing until the orzo is creamy and well coated. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Transfer the orzo to a serving platter or individual bowls.
6. Tear the burrata into large pieces and place it over the warm orzo.
7. Sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
8. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, finish with freshly cracked black pepper, and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips
– Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
– Add the burrata just before serving so it stays creamy.
– Reserve some pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lemon basil orzo with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, garlic shrimp, or a crisp arugula salad. It also pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, grilled zucchini, or warm crusty bread.
Conclusion
Lemon Basil Orzo with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is a fresh, creamy, and elegant dish that’s full of bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and rich cheese. Whether served as a light main course or a flavorful side, this easy Mediterranean-inspired recipe is sure to impress family and guests alike.