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)
- 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
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the salad ingredients.
Step 2: Arrange the Base
- On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a bed using the mixed greens or arugula.
- Arrange cucumber slices, halved tomatoes, avocado slices, and red onion artfully over the greens.
Step 3: Add the Star Ingredient
- Carefully place the burrata balls in the center of the arrangement.
- Using a knife, gently cut a cross in the top of each burrata ball to reveal the creamy interior.
- Allow the cheese to slowly release its creamy center onto the salad.
Step 4: Garnish and Dress
- Scatter torn basil and mint leaves over the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over all ingredients.
- Add any optional toppings like toasted nuts, prosciutto, or fruits if using.
- Finish with a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve immediately while the burrata is at its optimal creamy texture.
- 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