As the sun sets on those warm summer evenings, the kitchen transforms into a haven of vibrant colors and tantalizing scents. Picture this: a bowl brimming with luscious, sun-kissed tomatoes, nestled among creamy burrata, and drizzled with a sweet, tangy balsamic dressing. I was inspired to create this Tomato and Burrata Salad after a visit to my local farmers’ market, where the produce was bursting with flavor and begging to be highlighted. Each bite is a celebration of summer, a quick escape from the mundane into a world where fresh ingredients reign supreme.
You won’t believe how effortlessly this dish comes together, making it a perfect choice for everything from casual dinners to unforgettable gatherings. Simple yet elegant, it invites you to savor the season’s bounty while enjoying a moment of culinary bliss. Grab your freshest tomatoes and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that your taste buds will thank you for!
Why is Burrata and Tomato Salad irresistible?
Freshness at its finest: This Burrata and Tomato Salad showcases the best of summer produce, offering a vibrant celebration of flavor.
Creamy texture: The luscious burrata melts into the marinated tomatoes, creating an unforgettable silky mouthfeel.
Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together in no time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering.
Versatile pairing: Serve it as a light starter, alongside grilled meats, or even as a delightful lunch on its own.
Crowd-pleaser: Its colorful presentation and delightful taste make it a guaranteed hit at any table! You’ll want to try this simple summer salad to elevate your mealtime.
Burrata and Tomato Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Cherry Tomatoes – Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes for optimal flavor.
• Burrata Cheese – A creamy delight that serves as the heart of the dish; fresh mozzarella can be a substitute.
• Fresh Basil – Provides aromatic notes that beautifully complement the salad.
• Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and complexity to the final dish.
For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness and depth.
• Sticky Balsamic Vinegar – Adds the sweet and tangy flavor that complements the dish beautifully; regular balsamic can be used but will not achieve the same effect.
• Shallots – Introduces a sharp crunch; finely dice for the best integration.
• Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness; can be swapped with other herbs like chives if needed.
For the Sourdough
• Sourdough Bread – Serves as a flavorful base; crisp it in olive oil for added texture.
Experience the ultimate summer flavor with this Burrata and Tomato Salad, a true celebration of fresh ingredients.
How to Make Burrata and Tomato Salad
- Prepare Sourdough: Drizzle olive oil generously on both sides of the sourdough slices. Fry them in a cast iron pan over low heat for 10-15 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- Make Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sticky balsamic vinegar, finely diced shallot, parsley, flaky sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Tomatoes: Toss the cherry tomatoes in the prepared dressing, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors mingle beautifully.
- Assemble Salad: Place the burrata in the center of the marinated tomatoes. Slice it open gently, allowing the creamy center to ooze out onto the tomatoes.
- Finish with Basil: Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and an additional drizzle of olive oil, then serve it atop the crispy sourdough.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Burrata and Tomato Salad components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dressing and marinate the tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance—this allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, shallots, parsley, salt, and pepper, then toss it with the tomatoes and refrigerate. To maintain the freshness of the burrata and sourdough, store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the salad by placing the burrata in the center of the marinated tomatoes, slice it open, and serve it atop the crispy sourdough. This way, your salad remains just as delicious and vibrant, making mealtime feel effortless!
How to Store and Freeze Burrata and Tomato Salad
Room Temperature: Enjoy the salad fresh at room temperature, ideal for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate to maintain the vibrant flavors.
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the burrata separate from the tomatoes to prevent sogginess and loss of creaminess.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Burrata and Tomato Salad, as the texture of tomatoes and burrata can change unfavorably once thawed.
Reheating: If you’ve prepared the sourdough ahead of time, reheat in a pan for a few minutes until crisp again before serving!
What to Serve with Burrata and Tomato Salad?
As you create this vibrant dish, consider complementing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance the meal’s refreshing summer essence.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, charred chicken provides a protein-packed option that pairs well with the acidity of the salad.
- Herbed Quinoa: This light and fluffy side, tossed with fresh herbs, mirrors the salad’s freshness and adds a nutritious element.
- Garlic Toast: Crispy, buttery garlic toast echoes the crunch of the sourdough while adding aromatic flavor to each bite.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, zucchini noodles offer a gluten-free alternative that’s perfect for soaking up the salad’s dressing.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing combo of sweet watermelon and salty feta creates a beautiful contrast, embodying summer vibes.
- Sangria: Chill with a glass of sangria, as its fruity notes will harmonize with the salad and keep the festive atmosphere alive.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with velvety chocolate mousse, a luxurious dessert that celebrates the simplicity of fresh flavors.
These pairings will elevate your dining experience, making your Burrata and Tomato Salad truly unforgettable!
Burrata and Tomato Salad Variations
Get ready to put your unique twist on this delightful dish with these creative ideas!
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as oregano or dill for a new flavor profile. Each herb brings a distinct aroma that dances on your palate.
- Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor, creating delightful contrast to the creamy burrata. They provide a satisfying crunch with every bite!
- Fruity Accents: Toss in sliced peaches or strawberries for a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy balsamic dressing. The combination of fruits adds layers of flavor you won’t want to miss.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that awakens the taste buds. A little spice can truly elevate your summer salad experience.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini or asparagus for a smoky flavor that enhances the freshness of the salad. The charred notes offer a new dimension and increase the heartiness of your dish.
- Different Tomatoes: Try heirloom tomatoes or even roasted tomatoes to switch up the texture and flavor while still keeping it fresh and delicious. The variety will add a beautiful color palette!
- Cheesy Alternatives: For a twist, use goat cheese or feta instead of burrata. Both alternatives introduce new flavors and textures while maintaining the creamy essence of the dish.
- Slightly Sweet: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup in the dressing for a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of the vinegar. This lovely contrast ties the dish together beautifully.
Expert Tips for Burrata and Tomato Salad
• Quality Ingredients: Choose the ripest cherry tomatoes and high-quality burrata for the best flavor. Freshness is key to this Burrata and Tomato Salad.
• Perfectly Crispy Sourdough: Patience is essential when frying sourdough; cook on low heat to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior without burning.
• Shallot Dicing: Dice shallots as finely as possible; large pieces can overpower the dressing and affect the overall taste.
• Marinating Time: Don’t skip marinating the tomatoes; giving them 10 minutes enhances their sweetness and helps blend the flavors of the dressing.
• Herb Substitutions: Feel free to swap parsley with other fresh herbs like chives or oregano for a different flavor twist in your salad.
Burrata and Tomato Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for this salad?
Absolutely! When selecting cherry tomatoes, look for vibrant colors and a firm texture. Ripe tomatoes will have a sweet aroma and a slight give when gently squeezed—avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. For the burrata, make sure it feels fresh; a good quality cheese should have a soft, creamy texture and be well within its expiration date.
How should I store leftovers?
Certainly! If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to keep the burrata separate from the tomatoes to maintain the creamy texture and prevent sogginess. Consider placing a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
Can I freeze Burrata and Tomato Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad. Freezing can significantly alter the texture of both the tomatoes and burrata, making them mushy and unappetizing when thawed. However, feel free to crisp up the leftover sourdough if you make more than you need—just reheat them in a pan until they’re nice and crunchy again.
What if my sourdough isn’t getting crispy?
No worries! If your sourdough isn’t crisping up as expected, try lowering the heat slightly and giving it more time. Make sure both sides are evenly coated with olive oil and cooked slowly for about 10-15 minutes per side. If they still aren’t crispy, consider using a little more oil or checking that your pan is thoroughly heated before adding the bread.
Is this salad pet-friendly?
While this Burrata and Tomato Salad features ingredients that are generally safe for pets, be cautious with the shallots and salt. These can be harmful to dogs and cats in significant amounts. It’s best to enjoy this salad with your furry friends safely away from the dining table!
Can I make this salad in advance?
Certainly! You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead of time. Cut the tomatoes and prepare the dressing, but keep them stored separately until you’re ready to serve. The key is to wait until the last moment to assemble the salad so everything remains fresh and vibrant—perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering!
Fresh Burrata and Tomato Salad for Ultimate Summer Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drizzle olive oil generously on both sides of the sourdough slices. Fry them in a cast iron pan over low heat for 10-15 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sticky balsamic vinegar, finely diced shallot, parsley, flaky sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the cherry tomatoes in the prepared dressing, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Place the burrata in the center of the marinated tomatoes. Slice it open gently, allowing the creamy center to ooze out onto the tomatoes.
- Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and an additional drizzle of olive oil, then serve it atop the crispy sourdough.
