Burrata Caprese Salad: A Simple & Elegant Summer Delight with Crispy Prosciutto
Experience the unparalleled taste of summer with this Burrata Caprese Salad, a dish that effortlessly blends simplicity with gourmet elegance. Featuring luscious burrata cheese, vibrant ripe tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and a touch of savory crispy prosciutto, this salad is a true culinary gem. It’s perfectly suited for a light and refreshing lunch, an exquisite dinner accompaniment, or an impressive appetizer that will undoubtedly captivate your guests. The harmonious combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients creates a flavor profile that is both simple and profoundly delicious, making this recipe a joy to prepare and savor.
Table of Contents
About This Burrata Caprese Salad
If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed dish, this burrata caprese salad is an absolute revelation. It transforms a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients into something truly extraordinary. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that define summer dining. Imagine succulent tomatoes, incredibly creamy burrata, aromatic basil, and the unexpected crunch of crispy prosciutto, all brought together with a zesty, homemade dressing.
This recipe is a true go-to for countless occasions. Its effortless preparation makes it an ideal appetizer for dinner parties, as it can be partially prepared in advance and elegantly plated just before your guests arrive. However, its versatility extends far beyond entertaining. I frequently enjoy it as a refreshing light lunch on a warm day or as a delightful starter while the grill heats up for an evening meal. The beauty of this burrata caprese salad lies in its simplicity and speed; you can whip it up on any weeknight, yet its stunning visual appeal and rich flavors make it worthy of the most special gatherings. It’s a gorgeous centerpiece on any table, a vibrant work of edible art that promises a delightful culinary experience.
What is Burrata?
Burrata is a exquisite Italian cheese, celebrated for its unique texture and rich flavor. Originating from the Apulia region of Italy, it is crafted from cow’s milk and masterfully combines two dairy delights: mozzarella and cream. The exterior of burrata features a solid, delicate casing of fresh mozzarella, which acts as a protective shell. However, the true magic lies within its core. Inside, you’ll discover a luxurious blend of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds) and rich, fresh cream. This internal composition gives burrata its signature soft, spreadable, and incredibly decadent texture that oozes out beautifully when cut open. It’s this creamy interior that distinguishes burrata from traditional mozzarella, offering a more indulgent and buttery experience. For more innovative ways to enjoy this delectable cheese, consider exploring a delightful burrata peach salad.
Ingredients for Burrata Caprese Salad
Crafting the perfect Burrata Caprese Salad relies heavily on the quality and freshness of its components. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients you’ll need, along with tips for optimal flavor:
- Oil: The foundation of our dressing is a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Don’t skimp here; a robust, fruity olive oil will significantly enhance the overall taste and richness of the vinaigrette, elevating the entire salad.
- Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar is essential for that signature tangy sweetness. While any favorite balsamic will work, opting for an aged balsamic vinegar will introduce deeper, more complex notes. Feel free to experiment with flavored vinegars, such as fig or raspberry balsamic, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a unique twist.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness from honey balances the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer, agave nectar makes an excellent alternative, offering a similar sweetness profile.
- Garlic: A staple in Italian cooking, fresh garlic is a must! I always keep a jar of minced garlic in my fridge for convenience, saving time on peeling and chopping without sacrificing flavor. However, freshly minced cloves will provide the most potent aroma and taste.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon zest is a secret weapon for adding a bright, aromatic lift to the dressing. It provides a citrusy zing that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are non-negotiable for an authentic Caprese experience. You’ll need a generous combination of fresh basil and oregano. Their vibrant green leaves and fragrant aromas are crucial for the salad’s character. Consider tearing the basil leaves rather than chopping them to prevent bruising and preserve their delicate flavor.
- Spices: A simple yet effective blend of red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper is all that’s needed. The red pepper flakes offer a subtle warmth, while salt and pepper enhance all the natural flavors.
- Tomatoes: The star of the show! I highly recommend using sweet cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, as their small size and concentrated flavor are perfect for this dish. If these aren’t available, or you prefer a different aesthetic, refer to the FAQs section for notes on suitable alternative tomato varieties.
- Burrata: You’ll need about 8 ounces of burrata, which typically equates to two balls. Crucially, allow the burrata to come to room temperature before assembling the salad. This ensures its creamy interior is perfectly soft and luscious, ready to meld with the other ingredients.
- Prosciutto: The crispy prosciutto is a game-changer for textural contrast. Its salty, savory crunch provides an exciting counterpoint to the soft cheese and juicy tomatoes, adding an unexpected layer of flavor and sophistication to the salad.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Preparing this exquisite Burrata Caprese Salad requires minimal equipment, making it a truly approachable recipe for any home cook. You’ll primarily need:
- A reliable set of mixing bowls in various sizes for preparing the dressing and marinating the tomatoes.
- A good whisk for effortlessly combining the dressing ingredients.
- To achieve perfectly crispy prosciutto, ensure you have a half sheet baking pan and a silicone baking mat (or parchment paper) readily available.
- A sharp chef’s knife and cutting board will also be useful for preparing the tomatoes and herbs.
How to Make Burrata Caprese Salad
Creating this stunning Burrata Caprese Salad is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a dish that tastes as incredible as it looks:
Make the Crispy Prosciutto
Begin by preheating your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the torn pieces of prosciutto in a single, even layer, ensuring they don’t overlap too much. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the prosciutto turns beautifully golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool. It will crisp up further as it cools.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: 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. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified. This ensures every bite of your salad is bursting with flavor.
Marinate the Tomatoes
Place your halved cherry or grape tomatoes into a large mixing bowl. Pour half of the prepared dressing over the tomatoes and gently toss to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow the tomatoes to marinate at room temperature for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This crucial step allows the tomatoes to absorb the wonderful flavors of the dressing, intensifying their natural sweetness and creating a more cohesive flavor profile for the salad.
Final Assembly
Once the tomatoes have marinated, artfully arrange them on your chosen serving platter. Carefully break apart the balls of room-temperature burrata, revealing their creamy, luscious interiors, and strategically place the pieces around the dressed tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining dressing generously over the burrata and tomatoes. To finish, sprinkle the crispy prosciutto and a handful of fresh basil leaves on top. For an extra touch of gourmet flair, you can add a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving. Serve immediately with toasted slices of your favorite crusty bread, perfect for scooping up all the delicious components.
Expert Tips and Variations
To truly master this Burrata Caprese Salad and make it your own, consider these expert tips and ideas for variations:
- Prioritize Ingredient Quality: The success of this simple salad hinges entirely on the quality of its components. Always opt for the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find, source premium burrata cheese, and use only the freshest basil. Investing in a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and an aged balsamic vinegar will significantly elevate the depth and complexity of the flavors.
- Explore Different Tomatoes: While cherry and grape tomatoes are excellent, don’t limit yourself! This salad can be equally stunning with thick slices of colorful heirloom tomatoes for a rustic presentation, or even quartered Roma tomatoes. If using larger, more watery tomatoes, gently seed them to prevent the salad from becoming overly diluted.
- Adjust Portions with Ease: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a smaller, intimate meal for two, simply halve all the ingredients. Conversely, if you’re hosting a large gathering, the recipe scales up beautifully. Just ensure you have a large enough platter to showcase all the vibrant ingredients.
- Serve Burrata at Room Temperature: This is a golden rule for burrata! For its exquisitely creamy interior to be at its best – soft, oozing, and spreadable – it must be served at room temperature. Take the burrata out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to assemble the salad.
- Elevate with Balsamic Glaze: For an additional layer of tangy sweetness and a gorgeous visual finish, drizzle your assembled salad with a store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze. This concentrated reduction of balsamic vinegar adds a delightful richness that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.
- Add Other Fresh Herbs: While basil and oregano are classic, a sprinkle of fresh mint or finely chopped chives can add another dimension of freshness and flavor.
- Incorporate Peaches or Nectarines: For a delightful summer twist, especially when stone fruits are in season, add thin slices of ripe peaches or nectarines alongside the tomatoes. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata.
- Toast Your Bread: Don’t forget the bread! Toasting slices of baguette or sourdough until golden and crisp provides the perfect vehicle for scooping up the creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes, absorbing all the delicious dressing.
For more tantalizing Italian appetizers, be sure to try: Air Fryer Roasted Garlic | Summer Charcuterie Board | Caprese Bruschetta | Tomato Tart
The Origins of Caprese Salad
The precise origins of the beloved Caprese salad are steeped in a bit of mystery and culinary lore. While its exact genesis remains unconfirmed, popular belief suggests it was born on the picturesque island of Capri, nestled in Italy’s Bay of Naples. The salad’s name itself, “Caprese,” directly translates to “from Capri,” lending credence to this theory. It’s widely understood that the dish emerged as a way to celebrate the region’s finest and freshest ingredients: ripe, sun-kissed tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and rich olive oil.
Another enchanting theory proposes that the Caprese salad was created as a patriotic tribute to the Italian flag. Its vibrant colors—red from the tomatoes, white from the mozzarella, and green from the basil—mirror the national flag, making it a culinary symbol of Italian pride. Regardless of its exact birthplace or inspiration, the Caprese salad has transcended its humble beginnings to become a universally cherished Italian classic, adored for its simplicity, freshness, and vibrant flavors.
Can I Use Mozzarella Instead of Burrata?
Absolutely, you can certainly use fresh mozzarella as a substitute for burrata if burrata is unavailable or if you prefer a different texture. While burrata offers a distinctively creamy and oozing interior, fresh mozzarella still provides that delightful mild, milky flavor that is characteristic of a classic Caprese salad. When using mozzarella, I recommend opting for fresh mozzarella balls (fior di latte or bocconcini) rather than the firmer, low-moisture varieties. Cut the mozzarella into small, bite-sized pieces or thin slices. This makes it easier to combine with the cherry tomatoes and dressing, and to scoop onto slices of toasted bread, ensuring a pleasant eating experience. Keep in mind that the salad will have a slightly firmer, less decadent mouthfeel, but it will still be incredibly delicious.
What Kind of Bread Should I Serve with This Recipe?
To fully enjoy the rich flavors and creamy textures of this Burrata Caprese Salad, pairing it with the right bread is key. Your favorite crusty bread is definitely the best choice here! I highly recommend lightly toasting the slices just before serving. Toasting adds a delightful crunch and helps the bread stand up to the juicy tomatoes and dressing, preventing it from becoming soggy. My personal favorites include:
- Baguette: Its crisp crust and soft interior are perfect for tearing and dipping.
- Sourdough Loaf: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the sweet tomatoes and creamy burrata beautifully.
- Ciabatta: With its open, airy texture, ciabatta is excellent for soaking up all the delicious juices and dressing.
Ultimately, don’t overthink it—simply use whatever crusty bread you enjoy most. The goal is to have a sturdy, flavorful bread that can act as a delicious vehicle for every component of this incredible salad.
What Kind of Tomatoes are Best for Burrata Caprese Salad?
The choice of tomatoes can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your Burrata Caprese Salad. For this particular recipe, I have a strong preference for cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. Their small size makes them perfect for scooping up with the burrata and prosciutto, and their concentrated sweetness and firm texture hold up exceptionally well to the dressing. They deliver a burst of juicy flavor in every bite, which is ideal for a salad designed to be eaten with toasted bread.
However, if cherry or grape tomatoes aren’t available, or if you simply wish to explore other options, look for other smaller, flavorful varieties:
- Tomatoes on the vine: These often have a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Roma tomatoes (plum tomatoes): Their firm flesh and lower water content make them a good choice.
- Heirloom tomatoes: For a visually stunning and deeply flavorful salad, consider using a mix of colorful heirloom tomatoes. Slice them into thick wedges or discs to showcase their unique patterns.
Important Tip: If you opt for larger, more watery tomato varieties, it’s crucial to remove some of the seeds and excess liquid. This prevents the salad from becoming overly watery and ensures the dressing’s flavors remain concentrated and vibrant. The key is always to choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to a gentle squeeze, indicating peak freshness and sweetness.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, this burrata caprese salad is wonderfully accommodating and can certainly be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or busy weeknights. The key is to assemble it in stages to maintain optimal freshness and texture:
- Tomato Mixture: Prepare the tomato mixture by tossing the halved tomatoes with half of the dressing. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it marinates.
- Crispy Prosciutto: Bake the prosciutto until crispy and let it cool completely. Once cooled, store it in a separate airtight container at room temperature. This prevents it from losing its crispness.
- Burrata: Keep the burrata in its original packaging in the refrigerator until just before serving. Remember to bring it to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before assembly.
When you’re ready to serve, simply arrange the marinated tomatoes on your platter, break apart the burrata and place it amongst the tomatoes, drizzle with the remaining fresh dressing, and finally, top with the crispy prosciutto and fresh basil. Serve with freshly toasted bread slices. This segmented preparation ensures that each component retains its ideal texture and flavor, resulting in a perfectly fresh and delicious salad every time.
Seeking more delightful appetizer inspiration? Dive into my dedicated appetizers recipe page!
What to Serve with Burrata Caprese Salad
This Burrata Caprese Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. I particularly love to serve it with toasted slices of bread, allowing each bite to capture the rich creaminess of the burrata, the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes, and the savory dressing. It’s truly a sublime appetizer or a satisfyingly light lunch, especially on a sunny summer day.
Complementary Cocktails:
To maintain the vibrant Italian theme and complement the fresh flavors, consider these refreshing cocktail pairings:
- Aperol Soda: The classic combination of bitter Aperol and sparkling soda water is crisp, light, and perfectly suited to an Italian-inspired meal. Its vibrant orange hue also adds a festive touch.
- Limoncello Spritz: With just three ingredients, this spritz offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart, and its citrus notes beautifully echo the lemon zest in the salad dressing.
Perfect Dinner Pairings:
When serving Burrata Caprese Salad as an appetizer, especially during the peak of tomato season, I prefer to keep the main course a little lighter but equally flavorful:
- Bucatini Cacio e Pepe with Broccoli: This minimalist pasta dish, elevated with the addition of tender broccoli, offers a comforting yet not-too-heavy option that allows the salad’s freshness to shine.
- Farmers Market Pasta: Capitalize on seasonal produce with this easily customizable pasta. It’s light, fresh, and celebrates the bounty of the summer, just like the Caprese salad.
- Instant Pot Bolognese: For those craving a heartier, comforting Italian classic without the lengthy cooking time, this Instant Pot bolognese is an ideal choice, offering rich flavors that perfectly contrast the salad’s lightness.
Storage Tips
Ensuring your Burrata Caprese Salad remains fresh and delicious after serving is simple with proper storage:
- Store Leftovers: Any leftover salad components should be stored separately to maintain their best quality. Place the dressed tomatoes and burrata in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 2 to 3 days. The burrata’s texture may firm up slightly when cold, but the flavors will still be excellent.
- Toasted Bread: If you have any leftover toasted bread, it’s best to store it in a separate resealable bag or an airtight container on the kitchen counter. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps it retain its crispness.
- Freezing: It is strongly advised not to freeze this salad. Both the delicate burrata cheese and fresh tomatoes do not tolerate freezing and thawing well. The cheese can become grainy, and the tomatoes will turn mushy, compromising the entire salad’s delightful texture.
More Delicious Caprese-Inspired Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella (or burrata), and basil, you’re in luck! There are many ways to enjoy these quintessential Italian flavors. Here are a few more delicious Caprese-inspired recipes to explore:
- Caprese Bruschetta: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil piled high on crisp bread make this a consistently popular and tasty appetizer for any gathering.
- Grilled Avocado Caprese Chicken: A light, healthy, and fresh summer take on the classic Caprese flavors, incorporating tender grilled chicken and creamy avocado.
- Open-Faced Avocado Caprese Sandwich: Whether you need a quick snack or a satisfying light lunch, this open-faced sandwich offers a delightful blend of textures and fresh flavors.
- Marinated Mozzarella Balls: If you adore mozzarella, you absolutely must whip up a batch of these flavorful marinated mozzarella balls for easy snacking or as a sophisticated addition to any antipasto platter.
- Panzanella Toscana: While not strictly Caprese, this traditional Tuscan bread salad is simple to make and bursting with fresh, summery flavors, featuring ripe tomatoes and crusty bread.
Finally, if you have the pleasure of making this Burrata Caprese Salad recipe, please be sure to give it a rating and/or leave a comment! I genuinely love hearing from all of you when you try my recipes, and I make it a point to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have below as well!
Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share your culinary creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes brings me immense joy – it’s truly my favorite thing to browse through those photos. Your engagement and sharing mean the world to me!
Burrata Caprese Salad
5 minutes
10 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
4
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
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes halved
- Handful Basil Leaves
- 8 oz Burrata Cheese at room temperature
- Toasted bread slices for serving
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil
- 2 Tbsp Chopped Fresh Oregano
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Place torn prosciutto pieces in an even layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until crispy and golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
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To make the dressing, combine all dressing ingredients (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, lemon zest, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
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Add halved tomatoes to a large bowl with half of the prepared vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat. Let sit for 15 minutes at room temperature to marinate. Optionally, you can place this in the refrigerator for up to 5 hours for deeper flavor development (ensure burrata is kept separate).
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Arrange the marinated tomatoes beautifully on your chosen serving platter.
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Break apart the room-temperature burrata balls into rustic pieces and strategically place them around the salad. Drizzle generously with the remaining dressing.
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Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and the cooled, crispy prosciutto on top of the salad for garnish and texture.
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Serve immediately with toasted slices of your favorite crusty bread. Enjoy!
Video Guide
Nutrition Information
519kcal
Italian
Appetizer