Burrata Caprese Salad

Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite — and Burrata Caprese Salad does just that. This delightful twist on the traditional Caprese salad brings together juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, fresh basil, and a vibrant drizzle of balsamic glaze and lemon juice. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to an Italian garden table, glass of wine in hand, soaking in golden hour light.

What sets this version apart? It’s all about that burrata. Unlike regular mozzarella, burrata has a soft, creamy center that spills out like silk when you slice into it. Paired with ripe tomatoes and a whisper of citrus, this salad is lush, elegant, and shockingly easy to whip up in just 12 minutes. Perfect for warm days when you want something light but indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

This salad has everything you want in a go-to summer recipe. It’s quick, no-fuss, and full of seasonal goodness. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:

• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Ideal for entertaining or date nights
• No complicated cooking required
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
• Easily doubled for a crowd or scaled down for one

Taste & Texture

Expect a luxurious combination of textures and bright summer flavors:

• Creamy burrata that spreads like whipped cheese
• Juicy, sweet tomatoes
• Fragrant basil with a slight peppery bite
• Zesty lemon juice
• Thick, sweet-tart balsamic glaze
• Silky olive oil and a satisfying crunch from sea salt flakes

It’s rich yet refreshing — a total flavor bomb in every bite.

Dietary Attributes

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-Free
• Naturally low carb
• Packed with healthy fats from olive oil and cheese
• Great option for a Mediterranean-style diet

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 1/2 pounds (675g) tomatoes – heirloom, cherry, or any flavorful ripe variety
• 7 ounces (200g) burrata cheese
• About 10 fresh basil leaves
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Flaky sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice or to taste

Notes on Quality

Use the absolute best tomatoes you can find. In-season heirlooms, cherry tomatoes off the vine, or garden-fresh are best. Their sweetness makes the whole dish shine.

For burrata, freshness is key. This is not a place for bargain-bin cheese — check dates and grab from a trusted source. Olive oil should be fruity, vibrant, and cold-pressed for the best flavor payoff.

Possible Substitutions

• No burrata? Try fresh mozzarella, preferably mozzarella di Bufala for a rich flavor.
• Out of tomatoes? Ripe peaches make a delicious and surprising alternative.
• No balsamic? You can skip it or use a pre-made balsamic glaze for ease.
• Lemon juice is optional, but the citrus pop is so refreshing — lime could work in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Bring your ingredients to room temperature before starting. This helps the flavors come alive, especially the cheese and tomatoes.
• Cut your tomatoes into wedges or slices, depending on their shape and size. Arrange them on a large serving plate.

• Place the burrata ball whole in the center or tear it into pieces and scatter around the plate.
• Add your basil — smaller leaves can stay whole, while larger ones can be sliced or torn.
• Drizzle everything with olive oil.
• Season with flaky salt and coarse black pepper.
• In a small pot, cook your balsamic vinegar over low heat until slightly thickened (1–2 minutes). Let cool, then drizzle over the salad.
• Finish with a splash of lemon juice to brighten it all up.

Serve immediately and watch it disappear.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Let your tomatoes and cheese sit out for about 20 minutes before serving. Cold burrata is firm, while room-temp burrata is creamy and luscious.
• Layer flavors — salt and season each component lightly as you assemble.
• Don’t overcrowd the plate. This is a simple dish, and presentation matters.

Common Mistakes

• Using out-of-season tomatoes. They’ll taste bland and mealy.
• Serving burrata straight from the fridge. The texture won’t be right.
• Overloading with balsamic glaze. A little goes a long way.

Time-Saving Tips

• Use store-bought balsamic glaze if you’re short on time.
• Pre-slice your tomatoes and tear basil ahead of time — just assemble last-minute.
• Serving for a crowd? Arrange everything on a large platter for easy sharing.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This salad works beautifully as a starter or light meal. Try it with:

• Crusty sourdough or grilled bread
• Grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak on the side
• A bowl of chilled gazpacho

Presentation Ideas

Serve on a large white platter or rustic wood board to highlight the vibrant colors. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish.

Beverage Pairings

• A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Sparkling water with lemon and mint
• A light rosé on a sunny afternoon

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

This salad is best fresh, but if you have leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge
• Best eaten within 1 day
• Keep burrata separate if possible to preserve its texture

Reheating Methods

No reheating needed. If stored, bring it back to room temp before eating to revive flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I make this vegan?
Sure! Swap the burrata for a vegan cashew cheese or creamy almond-based cheese spread.

Can I double or halve the recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale ingredients accordingly. No change in technique required.

Troubleshooting

My tomatoes are bland. What now?
Try adding a touch more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavor. Salt generously.

Burrata is too runny. Is that normal?
Yes, burrata has a creamy center that will spill out. Just spoon it over the tomatoes like a sauce.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cheese alternative
• Low-Sodium: Skip added salt and use low-sodium cheese
• Low FODMAP: Limit portion size and swap out garlic-infused oil for flavor

Flavor Twists

• Add sliced peaches or nectarines for a fruitier salad
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or crushed pistachios
• Add a few torn mint leaves for a fresh twist

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• In fall, pair tomatoes with roasted figs and a drizzle of honey
• Add pomegranate seeds and rosemary for a festive winter look
• Springtime? Try asparagus ribbons and lemon zest for brightness

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a simple, elegant, and flavor-packed salad that screams summer — Burrata Caprese Salad is the answer. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, it’s the kind of recipe that impresses without stress.

Have you tried this dish already? I’d love to hear how you served it — or if you added your own spin. Drop a comment below or tag me in your creations on Pinterest at Cooking with Callie Pinterest Board. Let’s keep sharing the joy of fresh, beautiful food.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re into fresh, garden-inspired salads, don’t miss these favorites:

• Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese
• Tomato Feta Salad

Keep exploring, keep cooking, and I’ll see you in the next recipe.

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