5-Min Light & Fresh Burrata Caprese

Burrata Caprese is taking my favorite caprese recipe to the next level.

Summer gets me super pumped for sweet and juicy tomatoes. When I walked into my food store and saw beautiful multi-colored cherry tomatoes, I couldn’t pass them up.

Oh, and burrata, people, burrata. Burrata is one of those magical food items that get people excited whenever they hear the word. Plus, it’s fun to say. Go ahead, say it out loud. Burrata.

If you are digging summer salads as much as I am, you must try this kale and avocado salad, this chopped Thai salad, or this summer stone fruit salad, this summer orange chicken salad. OMG soo good!!

Why You’ll Love this Burrata Caprese

So Creamy and Rich! Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a soft, creamy interior that oozes out when sliced, creating a luxurious and velvety texture. This creamy element adds a lusciousness to the traditional Caprese salad, making it even more indulgent and satisfying.

So Flavorful and Fresh! A Burrata Caprese combines ripe, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The combination of these simple, fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavors that perfectly complement one another. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the herbal aroma of basil, and the creaminess of the Burrata cheese all come together to create a harmonious and delicious taste experience.

New spin! While a traditional Caprese salad consists of sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, the addition of Burrata adds a new dimension of versatility. The creamy texture and mild flavor of Burrata make it a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of other flavors and ingredients. It can be enjoyed as a standalone salad or incorporated into various dishes like pasta, sandwiches, or bruschetta.

What is a Caprese Salad?

A Caprese salad is a traditional Italian salad that originated in the region of Campania, specifically on the island of Capri. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the colors and flavors of fresh Mediterranean ingredients.

The classic salad typically consists of the following key components: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic, salt and pepper.

What is burrata?

Burrata is a really creamy and delicious semi-soft Italian cheese that’s made of part Mozzarella (the outer shell) and part something else that gives the inside a soft, creamy texture. That something else? Stracciatella and cream. Truth is, I totally googled that. Have no idea what it means, but thought I would include it for those of you that cared and need to know. Burrata. It’s fun to eat.

If you’re in a pinch and need to throw together a quick app or side for that potluck. Or, if you just want a light and juicy summer meal, this Heirloom Tomato Burrata Caprese Salad is a million percent perfect for you.

Ingredients for burrata Caprese salad:

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the star ingredient of a Caprese salad. They provide a vibrant burst of flavor, juiciness, and natural sweetness. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin C), and minerals. They also add a refreshing element to the salad, making it a perfect choice for a light and summery dish.

Burrata Cheese

Burrata cheese is a luxurious and creamy cheese that takes a Caprese salad to the next level. It is made from mozzarella and cream, resulting in a soft, buttery center that contrasts beautifully with the firmness of the tomatoes. Burrata cheese adds richness, depth, and a velvety texture to the salad, making it more indulgent and satisfying.

Avocado

While avocado is not a traditional ingredient in a Caprese salad, it can be a delicious addition. Avocado contributes a creamy and buttery texture that complements the other ingredients. It also provides a dose of healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and vitamin K. The addition of avocado adds an extra layer of richness and makes the salad more filling.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and plays a crucial role in a Caprese salad. It’s rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It helps bring all the ingredients together, adds moisture, and provides a smooth mouthfeel.

Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar is often used as a dressing or drizzle in a Caprese salad. It adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the cheese. Balsamic vinegar has a complex flavor profile and can elevate the taste of the salad. It adds a touch of acidity and enhances the overall balance of flavors.

Fresh Basil Leaves

Fresh basil leaves are a classic component of a Caprese salad. They bring a distinct and aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the tomatoes and cheese. Basil has a slightly sweet and peppery taste with hints of cloves and anise. It adds freshness, brightness, and an herbal note to the salad. The fragrance of fresh basil also enhances the overall sensory experience of the dish.

How to make this burrata Caprese salad:

1. Slice the tomatoes into halves, slices or wedges (depending on the kind of tomato you’re using and personal preference) and place them in your bowl.
2. Gently place the burrata cheese in the center of the bowl, nestled among the tomatoes, and pull it apart to reveal the gooey middle. This positioning allows the creamy interior of the burrata to become a focal point of the salad.
3. Prepare the avocado by slicing it into cubes. Place the avocado pieces around the edges of the bowl, alternating them with the groups of tomatoes. This arrangement adds both visual appeal and a creamy texture to the salad.
4. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the tomatoes, burrata, and avocado. Next, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the ingredients, giving them a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Finally, sprinkle the salad with freshly chopped basil leaves and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

Variations on this Burrata Caprese!

Roasted or Grilled Vegetables

Add depth and complexity to your Burrata Caprese salad by including roasted or grilled vegetables. Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus can be grilled or roasted until tender and then sliced or diced before adding them to the salad. The smoky and caramelized flavors of the vegetables provide an interesting contrast to the creamy Burrata and fresh tomatoes.

Prosciutto

Introduce a savory and salty element by including thinly sliced prosciutto in your Burrata Caprese salad. The cured meat add richness and depth of flavor, creating a more substantial and satisfying salad. Arrange the slices alongside the tomatoes and Burrata for an elegant presentation.

Fresh Fruit

For a touch of sweetness and a burst of freshness, consider adding fresh fruit to your Burrata Caprese salad. Sliced peaches, strawberries, or figs work particularly well. The combination of the creamy Burrata, sweet fruit, and tangy tomatoes creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Nuts

Toasted nuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad. Consider adding pine nuts, slivered almonds, or chopped walnuts to your Burrata Caprese. Sprinkle them over the salad just before serving to add texture and a hint of richness.

Drizzles and Sauces

Elevate the flavors of your Burrata Caprese salad with additional drizzles or sauces. Consider drizzling a honey balsamic glaze, pesto, or a tangy vinaigrette over the salad.

Crusty Bread

Serve your Burrata Caprese salad with crusty bread or crostini on the side. This allows you to enjoy the creamy Burrata, tomatoes, and other ingredients with a satisfying crunch and provides a vehicle for scooping up the flavors.