Indulge in the Ultimate Summer Delight: Creamy Burrata Caprese Salad Recipe
Experience the exquisite simplicity of Burrata Caprese Salad, a truly elegant summer dish crafted from the freshest, sun-ripened tomatoes, luxurious creamy burrata cheese, and fragrant basil. This vibrant salad isn’t just a perfect choice for a light lunch or a sophisticated dinner; it also shines as an impressive appetizer that will undoubtedly be the star of any gathering. Its harmonious blend of simple, fresh flavors makes this recipe incredibly easy to prepare and an absolute joy to savor.
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About This Burrata Caprese Salad
If you’re searching for a dish that effortlessly combines speed, satisfaction, and an explosion of fresh flavors, this Burrata Caprese Salad is your ultimate answer. It truly elevates simple, high-quality ingredients into something utterly magical and unforgettable. This isn’t just a salad; it’s an experience that awakens the senses, offering a delightful counterpoint of textures and tastes.
I consider this Burrata Caprese a staple among my collection of versatile summer recipes, perfect for almost any occasion. Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal appetizer for a party, as you can get most of the work done in advance and simply assemble it right before your guests arrive. Imagine the vibrant colors and enticing aroma greeting everyone as they settle in!
Beyond party fare, I frequently enjoy this salad as a light, refreshing lunch during warmer months. It also serves as a fantastic starter when we’re firing up the grill for an evening meal, providing a fresh contrast to richer main courses. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it’s so quick and straightforward that you’ll find yourself making it on a regular weeknight, not just for special gatherings.
Despite its humble preparation, the Burrata Caprese Salad is undeniably gorgeous. The vivid red tomatoes, the pristine white burrata, and the lush green basil create a striking visual appeal that makes it a true centerpiece on any table. It’s truly a work of art that’s meant to be devoured, offering both visual delight and incredible taste in every single bite. Each element, from the creamy cheese to the juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs, plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and utterly delicious summer salad experience.
What is Burrata and Why It’s Perfect for Caprese?
Burrata is a exquisite Italian cheese, celebrated for its unique texture and rich flavor. Hailing from the Puglia region, it’s crafted from cow’s milk (though sometimes buffalo milk is used) and is essentially a luxurious upgrade to fresh mozzarella. The magic of burrata lies in its construction: it features a solid outer casing of stretched mozzarella, but the inside holds a delightful surprise. Within this delicate skin, you’ll find a luscious mixture of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds) and fresh cream, giving it an incredibly soft, spreadable, and intensely creamy core.
When you cut into a ball of burrata, the rich, creamy interior spills out, creating a truly decadent experience. This contrasts beautifully with the firmer texture of traditional mozzarella. In a Caprese salad, burrata adds an unparalleled level of richness and creaminess that elevates the dish from good to extraordinary. Its mild, milky flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the peppery notes of fresh basil, while its luxurious texture coats your palate, making each bite utterly satisfying.
For those eager to explore more ways to incorporate this delightful cheese into their cooking, be sure to check out this burrata peach salad. It’s another fantastic way to enjoy burrata’s unique qualities in a fresh, seasonal context.
Essential Ingredients for Your Burrata Caprese Salad
Crafting the perfect Burrata Caprese Salad begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the dish’s signature fresh, balanced, and utterly irresistible flavor profile:
- Oil: The foundation of our flavorful dressing is extra virgin olive oil. Don’t skimp on quality here! A good EVOO, preferably cold-pressed, will contribute a fruity, slightly peppery note that enhances all the other ingredients and provides a silky texture to the dressing.
- Vinegar: We’re calling for balsamic vinegar, and if you can get your hands on an aged variety, it will add a complex sweetness and depth that truly elevates the dressing. Aged balsamic is thicker and more concentrated, offering a richer flavor. However, feel free to use your favorite high-quality balsamic. For an adventurous twist, consider experimenting with flavored vinegars, such as fig or raspberry balsamic, to add an unexpected dimension.
- Honey: This natural sweetener helps balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. If you prefer, agave nectar makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar level of sweetness and smooth consistency.
- Garlic: A non-negotiable for incredible flavor! Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic punch that can’t be replicated. While fresh is always best, I keep a jar of minced garlic in my fridge for convenience. It’s a fantastic shortcut that saves time and keeps your hands free of garlic smell, especially on busy weeknights.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon zest is a must for the dressing! The zest contains essential oils that provide a bright, fragrant citrus note, adding a lovely lift to the entire salad without making it overtly sour. It’s a subtle yet impactful ingredient.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are key to a classic Caprese. You’ll need a generous combination of fresh basil and oregano. The sweet, peppery notes of basil are iconic in this dish, while oregano adds a earthy, slightly pungent aromatic layer that complements the other flavors beautifully. Always opt for fresh over dried for maximum impact.
- Spices: Simple seasoning is all that’s required to let the natural flavors shine. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick, while kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper bring out the best in the tomatoes and cheese.
- Tomatoes: For this recipe, cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are highly recommended. Their small size makes them perfect for individual bites, and they tend to be wonderfully sweet and juicy. However, if you’re looking for alternatives, check out the FAQs section for notes on using other tomato varieties, such as beautiful heirloom tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, ensuring you select ripe, flavorful ones.
- Burrata: You’ll need approximately 8 ounces of burrata, which usually equates to about two balls. The most crucial tip here is to ensure your burrata comes to room temperature before assembling the salad. This allows its creamy, luscious interior to soften and flow beautifully when broken apart, maximizing its rich, indulgent texture.
- Prosciutto: The crispy prosciutto is more than just a garnish; it’s a game-changing textural element in this salad. Its salty, savory crunch provides a wonderful contrast to the soft burrata and juicy tomatoes, adding an unexpected layer of flavor and dimension.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe
Good news! You won’t need an extensive array of kitchen gadgets to bring this delightful Burrata Caprese Salad to life. The simplicity of the recipe extends to its equipment requirements. For the main components of the salad, a basic set of mixing bowls of various sizes and a trusty whisk are essentially all you’ll need to combine your dressing ingredients and marinate your tomatoes. These fundamental tools are staples in any kitchen and make the mixing process incredibly straightforward.
For achieving that irresistible crispy prosciutto, a couple of additional items will come in handy: a half sheet baking pan and a silicone baking mat (or parchment paper). The silicone mat ensures easy cleanup and prevents the delicate prosciutto from sticking, resulting in perfectly crisp pieces every time. Having these tools ready will streamline your preparation and allow you to focus on the fresh flavors of your Caprese salad.
How to Prepare the Best Burrata Caprese Salad
Creating this stunning Burrata Caprese Salad is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly balanced and incredibly flavorful dish:
1. Perfectly Crispy Prosciutto
Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 400˚F (200˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Carefully arrange the delicate prosciutto pieces in a single, even layer, ensuring they don’t overlap too much. This allows them to crisp up uniformly. Bake for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until the prosciutto turns beautifully golden brown and develops a satisfying crisp texture. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool. It will become even crispier as it cools.
2. Whisk Up the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing: extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or agave), minced garlic, fresh lemon zest, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh oregano, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously combine everything until well emulsified and thoroughly mixed. Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings if necessary; you might want a touch more salt, pepper, or a hint more honey depending on your preference.
3. Marinate the Tomatoes
Transfer your halved cherry or grape tomatoes into a large mixing bowl. Pour about half of the prepared dressing over the tomatoes. Gently toss to ensure all the tomatoes are lightly coated. Let this mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This crucial marinating step allows the tomatoes to absorb the vibrant flavors of the dressing, intensifying their natural sweetness and creating a more cohesive, flavorful salad. You can also place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 hours if preparing further in advance.
4. Artful Assembly
Once the tomatoes have marinated, artfully arrange them on a beautiful serving platter. Next, carefully break up the balls of room-temperature burrata cheese into irregular, rustic pieces. Place these creamy burrata chunks strategically around and among the dressed tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining dressing generously over the burrata and tomatoes, ensuring every component gets a touch of that exquisite flavor. Finally, sprinkle the crunchy crispy prosciutto pieces and fresh basil leaves on top for both visual appeal and an added burst of flavor and texture. For an extra touch of elegance and a subtle saltiness, finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, if desired. Serve this stunning Burrata Caprese Salad immediately with slices of toasted crusty bread, perfect for scooping up every delicious bite.
Expert Tips and Creative Ideas
To truly master your Burrata Caprese Salad and make it an unforgettable dish, consider these expert tips and creative ideas:
- Use the Best Ingredients: This seemingly simple salad thrives on the quality of its components. Investing in ripe, flavorful tomatoes (ideally in season and locally sourced), high-quality, creamy burrata, and vibrant, fresh basil is paramount. The better your ingredients, the more profound and delicious the final result will be. Don’t forget to choose a good extra virgin olive oil and an aged balsamic vinegar; these foundational liquids significantly impact the overall flavor profile.
- Experiment with Different Tomatoes: While cherry or grape tomatoes are excellent, feel free to get creative with other varieties. This salad shines with slices of colorful heirloom tomatoes, offering a beautiful mosaic of reds, yellows, and greens. You can also use larger beefsteak tomatoes or firm Roma tomatoes, cut into thick, irregular chunks. If using larger, juicier tomatoes, it’s a good idea to lightly seed them to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Adjust the Size for Any Occasion: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. If you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two, easily halve the ingredient amounts. Conversely, for a large summer party or family gathering, you can effortlessly scale up the recipe. Just ensure you have enough space on your serving platter to showcase all the beautiful ingredients.
- Serve Burrata at Room Temperature: This tip is crucial for enjoying burrata at its absolute best. Refrigeration can make the cheese firm and less creamy. To achieve that signature soft, oozing interior, remove the burrata from the refrigerator approximately 30-60 minutes before you plan to serve. This allows its rich, creamy center to relax and become perfectly spreadable, enhancing the luxurious texture of your salad.
- Add Balsamic Glaze for a Sweet Tang: For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation, drizzle your finished salad with a high-quality balsamic glaze. Unlike regular balsamic vinegar, a glaze is reduced and sweetened, offering a thicker, syrupy consistency and a more intense sweet and tangy punch. It adds a sophisticated touch and a lovely sheen to the dish. You can find pre-made balsamic glaze or easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until reduced.
More flavorful Italian appetizers to try: Air Fryer Roasted Garlic | Summer Charcuterie Board | Caprese Bruschetta | Tomato Tart
Frequently Asked Questions About Burrata Caprese Salad
Here are some common questions about Burrata Caprese Salad to help you perfect your dish and understand its rich culinary background.
What is the origin of the Caprese salad?
The exact origins of the classic Caprese salad are steeped in a bit of culinary mystery, making it all the more charming. While there’s no single, universally accepted story, many culinary historians and enthusiasts believe it originated on the stunning island of Capri, nestled in Italy’s Bay of Naples. The name “Caprese” itself, meaning “of Capri,” certainly supports this theory.
This vibrant salad is a celebration of the region’s finest, freshest ingredients: ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella (or in our case, burrata), fragrant basil, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Another popular and romantic theory suggests that the Caprese salad was created as a patriotic homage to the Italian flag, with its distinct colors mirroring the red (tomatoes), white (cheese), and green (basil) of the national banner. This visual representation adds another layer of cultural significance to this simple yet iconic dish.
Regardless of its precise birthplace or inspiration, the Caprese salad has become a long-cherished and beloved Italian recipe, celebrated worldwide for its fresh flavors and beautiful simplicity. It embodies the essence of Italian summer cuisine.
Can I substitute mozzarella for burrata?
Absolutely, you can certainly use fresh mozzarella instead of burrata if burrata is unavailable or if you simply prefer it. While burrata offers a distinct, creamy, and almost liquid center that provides a unique textural experience, fresh mozzarella still delivers the classic milky flavor and soft texture essential to a Caprese salad. When using fresh mozzarella, especially balls like bocconcini or ciliegine, I recommend either halving them or cutting larger balls into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes them easier to combine with the cherry tomatoes and to enjoy on slices of toasted bread, ensuring a balanced bite every time.
What kind of bread should I serve with this Caprese salad?
The ideal companion for your Burrata Caprese Salad is your favorite crusty bread. The crisp exterior and soft interior of a good quality bread are perfect for soaking up the delicious dressing and scooping up the creamy burrata and juicy tomatoes. I highly recommend toasting the bread slices just before serving. Toasting adds a wonderful crunch and a warm, inviting aroma that complements the salad beautifully. My personal favorites include a classic baguette, known for its light, airy crumb and crisp crust, or a rustic sourdough loaf, which offers a delightful tangy flavor and chewier texture. However, the best advice is to simply use whatever crusty bread you love most. A good ciabatta or even a country-style loaf would also be excellent choices.
What are the best tomatoes for Burrata Caprese Salad?
For a Burrata Caprese Salad, the choice of tomatoes significantly impacts the flavor and presentation. I personally adore using small, sweet varieties like cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. Their concentrated sweetness and firm texture are ideal, and their bite-sized nature pairs wonderfully with the creamy burrata and crispy prosciutto, ensuring a perfect mouthful every time. They also tend to be less watery than larger tomatoes, keeping your salad from becoming diluted.
However, don’t limit yourself! If cherry or grape tomatoes aren’t readily available or if you simply prefer a different aesthetic, consider other excellent options. Heirloom tomatoes, with their stunning array of colors and complex, sweet-tart flavors, make a breathtaking presentation when sliced into thick, rustic rounds. Tomatoes on the vine or smaller Roma tomatoes also work beautifully. If you opt for larger, juicier tomato varieties, it’s wise to seed them gently to remove excess water before slicing. This prevents the salad from becoming overly wet and ensures the dressing’s flavors remain concentrated. Always prioritize ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best possible taste – locally grown often means peak freshness and flavor.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this Burrata Caprese Salad is surprisingly amenable to being prepared ahead of time, which makes it an excellent choice for entertaining! The key is to assemble it in stages to maintain optimal freshness and texture. I recommend preparing the tomato mixture (tomatoes tossed with half of the dressing) and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an even more delicious base.
Crucially, keep the burrata and the crispy prosciutto separate until just before serving. Store the burrata in its original liquid, or in a small amount of milk if you’ve opened the package, and keep it refrigerated. The crispy prosciutto should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container to prevent it from softening. When you’re ready to serve, simply plate the marinated tomatoes, artfully arrange the room-temperature burrata, drizzle with the remaining dressing, and top with the prosciutto and fresh basil. This method ensures that every component retains its intended texture and flavor, resulting in a perfectly fresh and appealing salad.
Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizers recipe page!
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Burrata Caprese Salad
The beauty of Burrata Caprese Salad lies in its versatility. It’s truly a star on its own, especially when served with toasted slices of crusty bread. This combination allows you to scoop up every last bit of creamy burrata, juicy tomato, and flavorful dressing, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s the perfect light lunch or a sophisticated appetizer, especially on a warm, summery day when fresh produce is at its peak.
But why stop there? This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of other dishes and drinks to create a complete and memorable meal:
Perfect Cocktail Pairings:
- For a quintessential Italian experience, an Aperol soda is an excellent choice. The classic bitter-sweet notes of Aperol with refreshing soda water perfectly complement the Caprese, enhancing the Italian theme.
- If you prefer something with a citrusy zing, a limoncello spritz offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Made with just three ingredients, it’s a bright and bubbly companion to the fresh salad.
Ideal Dinner Companions:
Since the Burrata Caprese Salad often takes center stage during the peak of summer (hello, tomato season!), I like to keep the main courses on the lighter side to complement its freshness:
- A minimalist yet incredibly satisfying pasta dish like Bucatini Cacio e Pepe with Broccoli offers a simple, peppery sauce with a welcome touch of greens.
- Embrace seasonal produce with a customizable Farmers Market Pasta. This dish is designed to be flexible, allowing you to incorporate whatever fresh vegetables are abundant and in season, creating a light and vibrant main course.
- For those who crave a heartier, comforting Italian meal, but still want ease, an Instant Pot Bolognese is a fantastic option. This recipe streamlines the classic rich, slow-simmered meat sauce, making it incredibly easy to prepare while delivering all the traditional, deep flavors you love.
Storage Tips for Your Burrata Caprese Salad
To ensure any leftover Burrata Caprese Salad remains as delicious as possible, proper storage is key. While best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly save components for a day or two with these tips:
- Store: Any leftover assembled salad should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will typically maintain its quality for up to 2 to 3 days. Be aware that the basil may start to wilt slightly and the tomatoes might release more juice over time, but the flavors will still be delightful. If you have any toasted bread slices leftover, it’s best to store them separately in a resealable bag on the counter to prevent them from becoming soggy in the fridge.
- Freeze: It is strongly advised not to attempt to freeze this salad. Both the delicate burrata cheese and the fresh tomatoes do not hold up well to the freezing and thawing process. Freezing will significantly alter their texture, turning the cheese crumbly or watery and the tomatoes mushy, ultimately compromising the quality and enjoyment of the salad. For the best experience, always enjoy this Burrata Caprese Salad fresh or shortly after preparing.
Discover More Delicious Caprese-Inspired Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the classic combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil, then you’ll be delighted to explore these other delicious Caprese-inspired recipes:
- Caprese Bruschetta: This tasty appetizer takes juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant basil and piles them high on toasted bread, creating a perfect bite for any party or casual gathering.
- Grilled Avocado Caprese Chicken: A healthy and fresh summer take on the beloved Caprese flavors, this dish combines tender grilled chicken with the creamy richness of avocado and the classic tomato-mozzarella-basil trio.
- Open-Faced Avocado Caprese Sandwich: Whether you need a quick snack or a satisfying light lunch, this open-faced sandwich is an ideal recipe, blending the goodness of avocado with the fresh zest of Caprese.
- Marinated Mozzarella Balls: For true mozzarella enthusiasts, whipping up a batch of these flavorful marinated mozzarella balls is a must. They are perfect for snacking, adding to antipasto platters, or tossing into other salads.
- Panzanella Toscana: If you’re craving another tasty salad bursting with fresh summery flavors, this simple-to-make Tuscan bread salad is a fantastic option, featuring ripe tomatoes, crunchy bread, and a tangy dressing.
Finally, if you make this exquisite Burrata Caprese Salad recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I genuinely love hearing about your experiences in the kitchen. I always make time to respond to every single comment, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have.
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! It brings me immense joy to see these recipes come to life in your homes – scrolling through those photos is truly my favorite thing. It truly means the world to me!
Burrata Caprese Salad Recipe Card
Equipment
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Utility Cutting Board
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Silicone Baking Mats
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Half Sheet Pan
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French Wire Whisk
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Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 3 oz prosciutto torn into pieces for crisping
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved, or grape tomatoes
- Handful fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 8 oz burrata cheese approximately 2 balls, at room temperature
- Toasted crusty bread slices for serving
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil high quality recommended
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar aged if possible
- 1 Tbsp honey or agave nectar
- 2 cloves garlic freshly minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a subtle kick
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper or to taste
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Lay the torn prosciutto pieces in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the prosciutto is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
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To prepare the dressing, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or agave), minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh oregano, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified.
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Place the halved cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes) in a large bowl. Pour approximately half of the prepared vinaigrette over the tomatoes. Toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavors. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 hours if preparing further in advance.
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Arrange the marinated tomatoes attractively on a large serving platter.
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Carefully break apart the room-temperature balls of burrata cheese into rustic pieces and strategically place them around and among the tomatoes on the platter. Drizzle the remaining dressing generously over the burrata and tomatoes.
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Finally, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves and the crispy prosciutto pieces over the entire salad. If desired, finish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt for an extra touch.
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Serve immediately with toasted slices of your favorite crusty bread, allowing guests to enjoy the full range of flavors and textures.