Name: Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 200 g fresh burrata cheese (Aus: Paesanella is my go-to); 1/4 cup basil pesto (preferably homemade, recommended but not essential); 500 g cherry or grape tomatoes; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp eschalot (finely chopped, ~1/2 small); 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tsp sherry vinegar (or apple cider or red wine vinegar); 1/2 tsp salt flakes (or half the quantity for cooking/kosher salt); 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (a good one is best, for finishing); Few fresh basil leaves (for sprinkling); warmed crusty bread (for mopping)

Introduction to Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

When it comes to quick and tasty meals, Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad is a shining star for young professionals! Picture this: a plate adorned with juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and a drizzle of rich pesto. It's not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to whip up after a long day at work.

This salad reflects the beauty of Italian cuisine—rustic, fresh, and utterly satisfying. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that works perfectly as a light meal or an eye-catching appetizer for your next gathering. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love the appeal of a dish that requires minimal cooking yet delivers maximum flavor? Plus, it's a fabulous way to impress friends or family without breaking the bank.

If you're curious about making your own pesto, check out this homemade pesto recipe. The fresh ingredients really elevate the flavors in this Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delicious salad a try? It's the ideal balance of simplicity and gourmet flair, perfect for your busy lifestyle!

Ingredients for Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Creating a delightful Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad is all about using fresh, quality ingredients. Below, you'll find what you need to whip up this stunning dish!

Essential ingredients

Burrata cheese: 200g (6 oz) – This creamy delight is the star of your salad. Look for high-quality burrata for that oozy texture.
Cherry or grape tomatoes: 500g (1 lb) – Roasting these brings out a burst of flavor, making them the perfect companion to the burrata.
Eschalot (shallot): 2 tbsp, finely chopped – This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the salad.
Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoon + 1 tablespoon for finishing – A drizzle of good-quality olive oil elevates the dish substantially.
Sherry vinegar: 2 teaspoon – It adds a zesty kick; you can substitute with apple cider or red wine vinegar.

Optional add-ons

Basil pesto: ¼ cup – While not essential, this adds a gorgeous layer of flavor and richness.
Fresh basil leaves: A few for garnishing – They add a lovely aroma and visual appeal.
Warm crusty bread: Perfect for mopping up those delicious juices – you won’t want to skip this!

Ready to indulge? With these ingredients, your Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad will be a showstopper! Check out more on The Italian Taste for tips on sourcing these fabulous ingredients!

Preparing Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Creating a bursty tomato burrata salad is not just about the delicious flavors—it's also a delightful experience in the kitchen! This colorful salad brings the taste of summer to your table, no matter the season. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all the ingredients you’ll need for this sumptuous salad:

500g (1 lb) cherry or grape tomatoes
200g (6 oz) fresh burrata cheese
¼ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoon finely chopped eschalot (or shallot)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 teaspoon sherry vinegar (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish
Crusty bread for serving

Once you’ve gathered everything, wash the tomatoes and chop the eschalots. Let the burrata sit out for about 30 minutes to bring it closer to room temperature, enhancing its creaminess.

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). It’s time to roast those sweet tomatoes!

In a bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, chopped eschalots, salt, and pepper.
Spread the tomatoes on a baking tray in a single layer, ensuring they're not overcrowded.
Roast them for 10 minutes, until they’re softened but still holding their shape. After 10 minutes, gently push the tomatoes to one side of the tray and drizzle the sherry vinegar over them. No need to mix; this allows for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Roasting intensifies their sweetness, bringing out that burst of flavor we love!

Assemble the Salad

Once your tomatoes are done, it’s assembly time!

Carefully transfer the roasted tomatoes onto a serving plate, spreading them out.
Gently roll out the burrata from its container, placing it on top of the tomatoes. If you’re inviting friends over, this is the moment to show off that oozy center everyone loves!

Finish with Burrata, Pesto, and Seasoning

Next, let’s elevate our salad:

Drizzle additional extra virgin olive oil over the entire plate.
Drop spoonfuls of basil pesto around the burrata for that fresh, herby kick.
Sprinkle salt flakes and finish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

The final step? Dive in! Serve your bursty tomato burrata salad alongside warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for mopping up the delicious juices and creamy burrata—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind! As you savor each bite, you might even find yourself debating who gets the honor of breaking into the burrata first.

Bon appétit!

Variations on Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Switch Up the Cheese

While burrata is a delightful centerpiece, you can easily customize your bursty tomato burrata salad by experimenting with different cheeses. Try creamy feta or tangy goat cheese for a unique twist. Each cheese will add its own character, enhancing the flavors you love. Craving something heartier? A slice of fresh mozzarella is a great alternative, or even blue cheese if you want to elevate the boldness of this dish.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

To truly celebrate the seasons, why not toss in some fresh vegetables? Grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers can beautifully complement the burst of flavors from the tomatoes and burrata. For a crunchy texture, add radishes or cucumber slices. Not only do these vegetables amp up the nutrients, but they also provide vibrant colors that make your bursty tomato burrata salad a feast for the eyes. Plus, the variety keeps your meals fresh and exciting!

Try these variations and enjoy a new twist on a classic!

Cooking tips for Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Choosing the right tomatoes

When making a bursty tomato burrata salad, the star of the show is undoubtedly the tomatoes. For maximum flavor, opt for cherry or grape tomatoes as they are naturally sweeter and juicier. Look for tomatoes that are vibrant and firm with minimal blemishes. If possible, grab those that are in season for the freshest taste. Did you know that homegrown tomatoes can outshine store-bought ones in flavor? If you have a backyard garden, now is the perfect time to utilize those ripe tomatoes!

Best practices for burrata preparation

Burrata is a delicate cheese that deserves a bit of TLC. Before serving, always allow the burrata to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps enhance its rich creaminess. When handling, be gentle! Use your hands to transfer the burrata onto the plate to avoid any breakage. The cheese’s oozy center is what makes this salad divine, so don’t skip the step of draining it properly. Trust me; the bursty tomato burrata salad is not just a dish; it's an experience!

Serving Suggestions for Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Perfect Pairing with Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

When you're enjoying your Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad, a refreshing beverage can enhance its vibrant flavors. Consider pairing this dish with a chilled sparkling water infused with lemon or a fruity herbal iced tea. These options complement the creaminess of the burrata and the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes beautifully, making your mealtime not just a feast for the eyes but for the palate as well.

Creative Plating Ideas for Special Occasions

Presentation can elevate your Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad to a showstopper dish. For a special gathering, serve it on a large wooden board, arranging the tomatoes and burrata artfully. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. You can even place small bowls of pesto around the board for dipping. This rustic yet elegant style encourages sharing and will surely impress your guests. Remember, the beauty lies in the simplicity, so let the colors of your ingredients shine!

For more inspiration on entertaining, check out these fantastic hosting tips.

Time breakdown for Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Preparation time

This delightful Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Gather your ingredients, chop the garlic, and get ready for a burst of flavor!

Cooking time

You'll need 10 minutes to roast the tomatoes in the oven. Trust me, the sweet caramelization makes all the difference in elevating the dish.

Total time

In just 20 minutes, you can create this exquisite salad that beautifully combines roasted tomatoes and creamy burrata, perfect for an appetizer or light meal.

For those eager to dive deeper into the essence of this dish, check out the benefits of tomatoes and how to select the best burrata cheese!

Nutritional Facts for Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Calories per serving
With each serving of this delightful Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad, you'll enjoy approximately 305 calories. It’s a sumptuous choice for a light meal or appetizer that won’t weigh you down.

Breakdown of macro and micronutrients
The nutritional profile is as tasty as it is satisfying. Here’s a closer look:

Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 37mg
Sodium: 596mg
Potassium: 292mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 1275IU
Vitamin C: 29mg
Calcium: 307mg
Iron: 1mg

This vibrant salad is not only rich in flavor but also loaded with nutrients. The creamy burrata contributes healthy fats, while the tomatoes and basil provide antioxidants and vitamins. It all adds up to a delightful dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious! For more insights on nutrients, check resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

If you’re looking to make your meals a bit healthier while still achieving that satisfying taste, this Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad is the perfect answer. Don't hesitate; give it a try!

FAQs about Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

What do I do with leftovers?

If you have any leftover bursty tomato burrata salad, don’t worry; you can enjoy it again! Just keep the components separate and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. The roasted tomatoes will stay delicious for up to two days, but the burrata is best eaten fresh. For the best flavor, serve the tomatoes at room temperature and let the burrata come to a gentle warmth before digging in.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare certain elements of the salad ahead of time! Roast the tomatoes a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving. However, it’s best to add the burrata and pesto just before serving to maintain that creamy texture and vibrant flavor.

What’s the best way to store burrata cheese?

To keep your burrata fresh, always store it in its original water, ideally in the refrigerator. If it’s already opened, place it in a bowl filled with fresh water and cover it. Enjoy the creamy delight within a few days for optimal taste and texture! For more tips on storing cheese, you can check out credible sources like the Food Network.

Conclusion on Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

In conclusion, the bursty tomato burrata salad is a delightful, rustic dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, its juicy roasted tomatoes paired with creamy burrata create a taste sensation like no other. Don’t forget the crusty bread for the ultimate experience! For extra flavor, consider using homemade pesto. Enjoy!

For more ideas on how to enhance your salads, check out Serious Eats for expert tips. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the kitchen!