Burrata Salad

There’s something truly magical about the combination of creamy burrata cheese with fresh, vibrant vegetables. This Burrata Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors — juicy cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, creamy avocado, and the delicate sweetness of red onion, all brought together with a simple dressing of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s fresh, light, and elegant enough to serve as a starter at a dinner party or a satisfying lunch on its own. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just looking for a quick, wholesome salad, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Burrata Salad stands out because it’s effortlessly elegant and packed with nutrients. The star ingredient, burrata, is a creamy Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, giving it an ultra-soft texture that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the salad greens and the sweetness of the tomatoes. This salad is incredibly versatile, perfect for warm weather meals, and comes together in under 15 minutes. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients and no complicated techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The balance of healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil with fresh produce makes this salad nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, sliced in halves
• 1 small red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, peeled and diced
• 3 cups arugula (also known as wild rocket in the UK) or mixed salad greens
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 8-ounce burrata ball (or 2 x 4-ounce balls)

How To Make Burrata Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and slicing them in halves. Peel and thinly slice the red onion, then peel and dice the avocado. Set these aside. Make sure to handle the avocado gently to keep the pieces intact and creamy.

Step 2: Assemble the Greens

Place the arugula or your choice of salad greens in a large salad bowl. Arugula adds a lovely peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy burrata.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper. This simple dressing is all you need to enhance the natural flavors of the veggies and cheese.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and diced avocado to the bowl with the greens. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, being careful not to bruise the avocado.

Step 5: Add the Burrata

Carefully place the burrata ball on top of the salad. You can leave it whole for a dramatic presentation or gently tear it apart to distribute its creamy goodness throughout the salad.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it immediately as a light lunch or a stunning appetizer.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness.
• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint leaves.
• Serve the salad with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Drizzle a little more olive oil over the burrata just before serving for a glossy finish.
• Keep the burrata cold until right before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Swap the greens: Try baby spinach, watercress, or mixed spring greens instead of arugula.
• Include fruit: Add slices of fresh peach or figs for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
• Make it heartier: Throw in some cooked quinoa or farro to turn this salad into a more filling meal.
• Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives can elevate the flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the salad components separate from the burrata. Store the greens and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the burrata in its original packaging or a sealed container, also refrigerated, and consume within 24 hours for the best texture and taste. Avoid tossing the salad with dressing until serving time to prevent wilting.

FAQ

Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?

Yes, mozzarella can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that it lacks the creamy, rich center that makes burrata special. The salad will still be delicious, just less creamy.

Is it necessary to use balsamic vinegar in the dressing?

While balsamic vinegar adds a nice tangy sweetness, you can substitute it with lemon juice or red wine vinegar if you prefer a different acidity.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead but assemble the salad and add burrata just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

What should I serve with Burrata Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled bread, crusty baguette, or as a side to grilled chicken or fish dishes.

Conclusion

Burrata Salad is a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients and indulgent creaminess in perfect harmony. It’s quick to make, bursting with flavor, and adaptable to your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or a healthy side, this salad ticks all the boxes. Give it a try and watch it become a go-to recipe for effortless elegance at your table.