This Tomato Burrata Salad combines the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes with the creamy richness of burrata, creating a refreshing and indulgent dish. Perfect for a summer picnic or light dinner, the ingredients are simple yet full of flavor. The drizzle of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil adds a tangy kick, while fresh basil provides an aromatic finish.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main, this salad is versatile and can be paired with crusty bread or a glass of chilled white wine. The balance between the tomatoes’ juiciness and the burrata’s creamy texture is sure to leave you craving more.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
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1 ball of burrata cheese
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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Fresh basil leaves
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Arrange the sliced tomatoes on a large serving plate.
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Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter over the tomatoes.
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Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and cheese.
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Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, salt, and pepper.
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Serve immediately, or let sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Ingredients that Make This Salad Special
At its core, the Tomato Burrata Salad is made with just a few key ingredients. The tomatoes, the star of the dish, are ripe and flavorful, with a juicy burst that complements the creamy texture of the burrata cheese. The burrata itself is a rich and indulgent cheese with a delicate outer shell and a soft, gooey center. When paired with the tomatoes, it creates a luscious contrast in texture and flavor.
The addition of fresh basil adds a fragrant herbaceous note that ties the dish together. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar are essential for dressing the salad, enhancing the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese. The result is a dish that is incredibly easy to prepare but is bursting with layers of flavor.
A Taste of Italy
The Tomato Burrata Salad is a dish inspired by Italian cuisine, and it’s not hard to see why. Burrata is a popular cheese in southern Italy, often enjoyed with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. This dish embodies the essence of Mediterranean simplicity—using the best, freshest ingredients to create something that tastes amazing without requiring much preparation. It’s no surprise that this recipe has become a staple in Italian households and restaurants around the world.
Italian food is known for its focus on quality ingredients, and this salad is no exception. The tomatoes should be the best you can find—ripe, fragrant, and bursting with flavor. The burrata should be fresh, creamy, and made with high-quality milk. By using the freshest ingredients, you ensure that the dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.
Why This Salad is Perfect for Summer
The Tomato Burrata Salad is a quintessential summer dish. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavors that evoke the warmth of the season. During the hotter months, when fresh produce is at its peak, this salad takes full advantage of the bountiful harvest. The cool tomatoes and creamy burrata are the perfect antidote to a warm day, offering a light meal or side dish that won’t weigh you down.
Another reason why this salad is ideal for summer is that it doesn’t require any cooking. This makes it a great option when you want to avoid turning on the oven or stove in the heat. The simplicity of the dish, combined with its vibrant colors and flavors, makes it a showstopper on any summer table.
Serving Suggestions for the Tomato Burrata Salad
One of the best things about the Tomato Burrata Salad is its versatility. While it’s perfect on its own, there are many ways to serve it and elevate the dish further. For a more substantial meal, you could serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or even as a topping for bruschetta. The combination of the creamy burrata and the acidity from the tomatoes pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an ideal side dish for a barbecue or a casual dinner.
If you’re hosting a gathering, this salad makes a wonderful appetizer. You can serve it as individual portions or arrange the ingredients on a large platter for a family-style meal. The salad pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine or rosé, making it a great option for an alfresco meal or a summer evening with friends.
Customization Options for Your Salad
While this salad is delicious as is, there are many ways you can customize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. For a slightly different twist, you can try adding some other ingredients to the mix. A handful of arugula or spinach can add an extra layer of texture and flavor. You could also swap out the balsamic vinegar for a different type of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar, for a different acidic note.
For those who love a bit of crunch, you can add some toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for extra texture. If you prefer a sweeter version, try drizzling a little honey over the salad before serving. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and complement the creaminess of the burrata.
If you’re following a dairy-free or vegan diet, you can easily swap the burrata for a plant-based alternative. There are several vegan cheeses on the market that have a similar creamy texture to burrata and can work wonderfully in this salad.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
There are many reasons why the Tomato Burrata Salad is a favorite for many. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, it’s a hassle-free dish that’s perfect for busy days or when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are simple yet sophisticated, and the freshness of the tomatoes and burrata shines through with every bite.
Another reason this salad is so beloved is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or an appetizer, it’s a recipe that can fit into a variety of occasions. Its bright colors and beautiful presentation also make it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to any spread.
Conclusion: A Fresh and Elegant Summer Dish
The Tomato Burrata Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer. With its combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, fragrant basil, and simple dressing, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch, a dinner party, or just as a light bite on a warm day, it’s a dish that will impress every time.
This recipe is all about quality ingredients and simplicity. It’s easy to prepare, yet it feels luxurious, thanks to the creamy burrata and the balance of flavors. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for any occasion. So the next time you’re craving something fresh and light, give this Tomato Burrata Salad a try—it’s the perfect way to enjoy the best of summer in a single dish.