Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your table. As a lover of fresh ingredients, I find that this salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a beautiful presentation that is sure to impress guests. The combination of creamy burrata cheese and juicy, marinated tomatoes creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible.

This dish has its roots in Italian cuisine, where fresh produce and quality ingredients are celebrated. The use of burrata, a cheese that originated in the Puglia region, adds a luxurious touch that elevates the salad to a gourmet experience. People adore this Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad not just for its taste, but also for its convenience; it can be prepared in minutes and served as a refreshing appetizer or a light main course. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that captures the essence of summer in every bite!

Ingredients:

4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened work best)
8 oz burrata cheese
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. 2. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. The honey will add a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar. 3. Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. 4. Set the marinade aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the tomatoes.

Preparing the Tomatoes

5. Rinse the tomatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. 6. Using a sharp knife, slice the tomatoes into thick wedges or rounds, depending on your preference. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick slices to ensure they hold up well in the salad. 7. Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. 8. Pour the prepared marinade over the tomatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Gently toss the tomatoes to ensure every piece is covered in the marinade. 9. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting them sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even more.

Preparing the Burrata

10. While the tomatoes are marinating, take the burrata cheese out of the refrigerator. 11. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the creaminess and flavor of the cheese. 12. Once the burrata is at room temperature, carefully remove it from its packaging. 13. Using a sharp knife, cut the burrata in half to reveal the creamy interior. You can also leave it whole if you prefer a more rustic presentation.

Assembling the Salad

14. After the tomatoes have marinated, take them out and give them a gentle toss to redistribute the marinade. 15. On a large serving platter or individual plates, arrange the marinated tomato slices in a circular pattern or in a casual, overlapping manner. 16. Place the halved burrata in the center of the tomatoes. If you left the burrata whole, you can gently tear it apart with your hands to create a more inviting presentation. 17. Drizzle any remaining marinade from the bowl over the assembled salad. This adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures nothing goes to waste. 18. Scatter the torn basil leaves over the top of the salad for a fresh, aromatic touch. The basil not only adds flavor but also a beautiful pop of color. 19. Finish the salad with a final sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Serving the Salad

20. Serve the marinated tomato burrata salad immediately, while the tomatoes are still fresh and vibrant. 21. This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread, which you can use to scoop up the creamy burrata and juicy tomatoes. 22. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, keep in mind that the tomatoes may release more juice as they sit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Tips and Variations

23. Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes, for instance, can be halved and used for a bite-sized version of this salad. 24. You can also add other ingredients like sliced red onions, avocado, or even a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. 25. For a more substantial dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner option. Enjoy this delightful marinated tomato burrata salad, bursting with fresh flavors and textures. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their summer dining experience. The combination of juicy, marinated tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply treating yourself to a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this salad with a crusty baguette or some grilled chicken for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with variations by adding fresh herbs like basil or mint, or even incorporating some sliced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling a balsamic reduction over the top for a sweet and tangy finish. I encourage you to give this Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how you made it your own or any unique twists you added. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so don’t hesitate to snap a photo and tag me on social media! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking! Print

Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Summer Delight

Author: Layla
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad features juicy heirloom tomatoes marinated in a blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic, paired with creamy burrata cheese. Garnished with fresh basil and optional toasted pine nuts, it’s a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer, ideal as a light appetizer or side.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened)
8 oz burrata cheese
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)

Instructions

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the honey dissolves completely.
Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Rinse the tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry.
Cut the tomatoes into wedges or slices, depending on your preference.
Place the cut tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the prepared marinade over the cut tomatoes.
Gently toss the tomatoes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
While the tomatoes are marinating, take the burrata cheese out of the refrigerator.
Allow it to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
Carefully remove the burrata from its packaging and drain any excess liquid.
If using pine nuts, heat a small skillet over medium heat.
Add the pine nuts and toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant.
Remove the pine nuts from the skillet and let them cool on a plate.
After marinating, arrange the tomato wedges on a large serving platter or individual plates.
Tear the burrata into pieces and place it in the center of the tomatoes.
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the salad.
If using, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, tearing them by hand to release their oils.
Serve the marinated tomato burrata salad immediately, while fresh.
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled meats, or as a light appetizer.
Encourage guests to scoop up the creamy burrata with the marinated tomatoes for the best flavor experience.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld, but the tomatoes may lose some texture.
Serve leftovers cold or let them sit at room temperature to restore some original flavors.

Notes

For a more intense flavor, let the tomatoes marinate longer.
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like arugula or olives.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes