15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe – Easy and Flavorful

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15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe - Easy and Flavorful

Introduction

Discover the ultimate burrata salad recipe that combines creamy cheese with fresh, vibrant ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience. This classic Italian-inspired dish balances luxurious burrata cheese with crisp vegetables, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all dressed in high-quality olive oil and balsamic glaze. Whether you’re planning a dinner party, seeking a light lunch option, or wanting to impress guests with a sophisticated appetizer, this homemade burrata salad recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for warm summer evenings or as a refreshing side dish year-round, this burrata salad recipe will transform your meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just 15 minutes.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Burrata Salad Recipe

  • Ready in just 15 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining!
  • No cooking required – simply assemble and serve for an effortless yet impressive dish
  • Customizable to your taste preferences and seasonal produce availability
  • Visually stunning presentation that’s worthy of your Instagram feed
  • Balanced nutritional profile with protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables
  • Perfect for meal prep – prepare components ahead and assemble when ready to serve
  • Ideal for entertaining – scales easily for crowds and looks professional with minimal effort
  • Restaurant-quality flavor at a fraction of the cost of dining out

Ingredients for Burrata Salad Recipe

For the Base:

  • 2 balls (8 oz each) fresh burrata cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 cups mixed baby greens or arugula
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (multicolored varieties add visual appeal)
  • 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (highest quality you can afford)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup olives (Kalamata or Castelvetrano)
  • 8-10 slices prosciutto
  • 1 ripe peach or nectarine, sliced (when in season)
  • 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced (for a summer variation)
  • 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained

For a gluten-free option: This salad is naturally gluten-free, just ensure any added ingredients or store-bought dressings are certified gluten-free.

For a dairy-free alternative: Replace burrata with avocado or dairy-free soft cheese alternative (though the authentic experience comes from real burrata cheese).

15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe - Easy and Flavorful
15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe – Easy and Flavorful

How to Make Burrata Salad Recipe – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey.
  2. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the salad ingredients.

Step 2: Arrange the Base

  1. On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a bed using the mixed greens or arugula.
  2. Arrange cucumber slices, halved tomatoes, avocado slices, and red onion artfully over the greens.

Step 3: Add the Star Ingredient

  1. Carefully place the burrata balls in the center of the arrangement.
  2. Using a knife, gently cut a cross in the top of each burrata ball to reveal the creamy interior.
  3. Allow the cheese to slowly release its creamy center onto the salad.

Step 4: Garnish and Dress

  1. Scatter torn basil and mint leaves over the salad.
  2. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over all ingredients.
  3. Add any optional toppings like toasted nuts, prosciutto, or fruits if using.
  4. Finish with a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve immediately while the burrata is at its optimal creamy texture.
  2. Provide additional dressing on the side for guests to add according to their preference.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Burrata Salad Recipe

  • Serve burrata at room temperature for the ultimate creamy texture – remove from refrigeration 30 minutes before serving.
  • Quality matters – splurge on the best burrata cheese and olive oil you can afford as they’re the star ingredients.
  • Contrast is key – balance the rich, creamy cheese with acidic tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and peppery greens.
  • Don’t overdress – the natural flavors of fresh burrata should shine; the dressing should complement, not overpower.
  • Season at every level – add salt and pepper to both the dressing and the finished salad for depth of flavor.
  • Customize by season – add strawberries in summer, persimmons in fall, or blood oranges in winter.
  • Create height in your presentation by stacking ingredients for a more impressive visual impact.
  • Make ahead strategy: Prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving to prevent wilting.

Best Ways to Serve Burrata Salad

The best way to serve burrata salad is as a standalone appetizer or as part of an Italian-inspired meal. Consider these perfect pairings:

  • As an appetizer: Serve with crusty sourdough bread or garlic crostini for dipping into the creamy cheese.
  • For a light lunch: Pair with a cup of tomato soup or minestrone for a satisfying meal.
  • As part of a dinner spread: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a complete dinner.
  • For entertaining: Create a grazing board with your burrata salad as the centerpiece, surrounded by olives, cured meats, and crackers.
  • Wine pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio, light Sauvignon Blanc, or dry rosé beautifully complements the creamy burrata and fresh vegetables.

For a complete Italian-inspired feast, serve your burrata salad alongside homemade pasta or risotto dishes.

Nutritional Information for Burrata Salad

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 26g (primarily healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and avocado)
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Calcium: 15% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV
  • Vitamin C: 30% DV
  • Vitamin A: 25% DV

This burrata salad provides an excellent source of calcium from the cheese, healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil, and vitamins from the fresh vegetables. It’s a balanced option that fits into most Mediterranean-style eating patterns.

Storage & Leftovers

Burrata salad is best enjoyed immediately after assembly, as the fresh cheese loses its optimal texture over time. However, if you have leftovers:

  • Store components separately: Keep dressed greens, vegetables, and cheese in separate containers.
  • Refrigeration time: Assembled salad will keep for up to 24 hours, though the texture will change.
  • How to store burrata: Unopened burrata can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in its original liquid.
  • Never freeze burrata: The texture will be completely ruined upon thawing.
  • Dressing storage: Homemade dressing can be refrigerated for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

For meal prep, prepare all vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but add the burrata cheese and final assembly just before serving.

15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe - Easy and Flavorful
15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe – Easy and Flavorful

4 FAQs for Burrata Salad

Can I make burrata salad ahead of time?

You can prepare all components of the burrata salad ahead of time, but for best results, assemble just before serving. Prep the vegetables, mix the dressing, and store everything separately in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance. Add the burrata cheese and dressing at the last minute to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

What’s the difference between burrata and mozzarella?

While both are Italian fresh cheeses, burrata has a solid outer shell of mozzarella but contains a creamy, stracciatella cheese and cream filling that oozes out when cut. Mozzarella is consistent throughout with a slightly firmer, springy texture. Burrata is richer and creamier, making it ideal for salads where its luxurious texture can shine.

What can I substitute for burrata in this salad?

If you can’t find burrata, fresh buffalo mozzarella makes the closest substitute, though you’ll miss the creamy center. For a different but still delicious salad, try goat cheese, ricotta, or even a soft feta. Each cheese will create a different flavor profile but will still pair beautifully with the fresh vegetables and dressing.

How do I know if burrata is fresh?

Fresh burrata should have a clean, milky smell and appear plump and firm on the outside. Check the expiration date when purchasing. The outer shell should be intact with no tears or dryness. When cut open, the interior should be creamy and moist. Burrata is highly perishable, so use it within 1-2 days of purchase for the best flavor and texture.

Related Recipes

If you love this burrata salad, try these other delicious recipes:

Conclusion & Call to Action

You now have all the secrets to creating the best burrata salad recipe that rivals any restaurant version! With its perfect balance of creamy cheese, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing, this burrata salad recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and flexibility – feel free to adapt it based on seasonal produce and your personal preferences.

Have you tried making this burrata salad recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on social media and tag us @SavoryDiscovery or leave a comment below with your favorite variations and serving suggestions. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering – your guests will be impressed by this elegant yet effortless dish!

Now that you know how to make the best burrata salad recipe at home, what other Italian-inspired recipes would you like to master next?

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15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe - Easy and Flavorful

15-Minute Best Burrata Salad Recipe – Easy and Flavorful


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 15
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Discover the ultimate burrata salad recipe that combines creamy cheese with fresh, vibrant ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience. This classic Italian-inspired dish balances luxurious burrata cheese with crisp vegetables, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all dressed in high-quality olive oil and balsamic glaze.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Base:
    • 2 balls (8 oz each) fresh burrata cheese, at room temperature
    • 2 cups mixed baby greens or arugula
    • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (multicolored varieties add visual appeal)
    • 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
    • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
    • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
    • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (optional)
  • For the Dressing:
    • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (highest quality you can afford)
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-ins:
    • 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts
    • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
    • 1/4 cup olives (Kalamata or Castelvetrano)
    • 810 slices prosciutto
    • 1 ripe peach or nectarine, sliced (when in season)
    • 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced (for a summer variation)
    • 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey.
  2. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the salad ingredients.

Step 2: Arrange the Base

  1. On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a bed using the mixed greens or arugula.
  2. Arrange cucumber slices, halved tomatoes, avocado slices, and red onion artfully over the greens.

Step 3: Add the Star Ingredient

  1. Carefully place the burrata balls in the center of the arrangement.
  2. Using a knife, gently cut a cross in the top of each burrata ball to reveal the creamy interior.
  3. Allow the cheese to slowly release its creamy center onto the salad.

Step 4: Garnish and Dress

  1. Scatter torn basil and mint leaves over the salad.
  2. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over all ingredients.
  3. Add any optional toppings like toasted nuts, prosciutto, or fruits if using.
  4. Finish with a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve immediately while the burrata is at its optimal creamy texture.
  2. Provide additional dressing on the side for guests to add according to their preference.

Notes

  • Serve burrata at room temperature for the ultimate creamy texture – remove from refrigeration 30 minutes before serving.
  • Quality matters – splurge on the best burrata cheese and olive oil you can afford as they’re the star ingredients.
  • Contrast is key – balance the rich, creamy cheese with acidic tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and peppery greens.
  • Don’t overdress – the natural flavors of fresh burrata should shine; the dressing should complement, not overpower.
  • Season at every level – add salt and pepper to both the dressing and the finished salad for depth of flavor.
  • Make ahead strategy: Prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving to prevent wilting.
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: burrata salad recipe, easy salad recipe, Italian salad, creamy cheese salad, summer salad, no-cook recipe, fresh tomato salad, avocado salad, gourmet salad, quick salad

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