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When juicy ripe tomatoes are at their best I always turn to this Tomato Burrata Salad as my go to summer dish Bursting with sun kissed flavor and ready in minutes this salad makes the most of simple ingredients
This salad became my staple for barbecues after a neighbor brought it to our block party and everyone asked for the recipe Now my family expects it all summer
Ingredients
- Heirloom tomatoes: pick vibrant firm fruits for superior flavor and beautiful color
- Cherry tomatoes: sweet bite sized and incredibly juicy go for a mix of colors if you can
- Fresh basil leaves: give freshness and fragrance use leaves that are bright green and not wilted
- Burrata cheese: creamy rich center ensure it is very cold for the cleanest slices
- Black pepper: freshly ground gives a gentle kick for balancing creaminess
- Sea salt flakes or crystals: highlight every flavor taste and adjust as you go
- Extra virgin olive oil: fruity and bold go for the highest quality for drizzling
- Balsamic vinegar: brings brightness and a hint of sweetness choose a syrupy aged one if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the Tomatoes:
- Cut heirloom tomatoes into even thick rounds about one third of an inch so each slice holds up well and stays juicy Lay them out overlapping slightly on your serving platter
- Halve the Cherry Tomatoes:
- Cut each cherry tomato in half through the middle showing off their pretty centers Scatter them over the heirloom slices for bursts of color and sweetness
- Chop the Basil:
- Take basil leaves and stack them then roll into a tight cylinder Slice thinly into ribbons then sprinkle all over the tomatoes This step releases the aroma
- Add the Burrata:
- Gently tear open the burrata into rustic bite sized pieces with your hands or use a sharp knife If very creamy let some of the filling ooze onto the salad Place the pieces evenly over the tomatoes and basil
- Season and Dress:
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper generously over the salad Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over everything ensuring every bite gets seasoned Serve immediately while the burrata is cool
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Every summer I look forward to the first farmers market tomatoes so I can highlight them with burrata A memorable moment for me was serving this at a picnic and watching my kids devour every last tomato before the burgers were even grilled
Storage Tips
For the best results serve this salad immediately after assembling If you need to prepare in advance slice the tomatoes and store them in an airtight container Refrigerate the burrata separately and assemble at the last minute Leftovers can be chilled for up to one day but keep in mind the tomatoes may lose some texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find burrata use fresh mozzarella torn or sliced into chunks For extra tang try a few spoonfuls of crumbled goat cheese as a substitute for burrata If heirloom tomatoes are not available use ripe vine tomatoes or Roma tomatoes and double the cherry tomatoes for sweetness
Serving Suggestions
This salad is lovely as a light lunch with crusty bread to soak up the juices It also makes a perfect starter next to grilled meats or as part of a larger spread of summery appetizers Sometimes I serve it family style on a big platter and let everyone help themselves
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Cultural Context
Tomato Burrata Salad takes its cues from classic Italian Caprese salad with the creamy indulgence of burrata The combination reflects a Mediterranean love for letting the ingredients shine Simple honest flavors that speak of summer and connection around the table
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different tomato varieties?
Yes, a mix of heirloom and cherry tomatoes is recommended, but any ripe, flavorful tomatoes will work well.
- → What pairs well with burrata in this salad?
Fresh basil, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonal tomatoes complement burrata’s creamy texture.
- → How do I serve this salad?
Arrange tomatoes and burrata on a dish, top with basil, and finish with olive oil, balsamic, salt, and black pepper. Serve chilled.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
For best flavor and texture, assemble the salad just before serving. You can slice the tomatoes ahead and refrigerate.
- → Is this salad suitable as a main dish?
It can be served as a light main, especially with crusty bread on the side, or as an appetizer or side course.