Fresh Burrata Salad with Tomatoes, Basil, and Balsamic

Bright summer flavors come together in this Fresh Burrata Salad with Tomatoes, Basil, and Balsamic for a dish that feels like a warm breeze on your palate. The contrast of the creamy burrata against juicily sweet cherry and heirloom tomatoes creates a harmony of textures that’s almost too good to share. When you break open that pillowy burrata, its rich, milky center spills out like a silky blanket, embracing each tomato wedge and basil leaf in a luxurious coating. Drizzled with fruity extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and an optional kiss of honey, this salad dances between sweet, tangy, and earthy in every bite.

What’s incredible is how effortlessly this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something so vibrant and eye-catching. The torn basil leaves add just the right herbal note, while a scatter of toasted pine nuts or walnuts brings a welcome crunch. It’s a zero-cook wonder—no hot kitchen needed—so you can whip this up in about 15 minutes flat. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue, looking for a light lunch, or want to impress as an appetizer, this salad ticks all the boxes. Beginner cooks will appreciate the straightforward steps, and seasoned home chefs will love how it elevates pantry staples into a showstopper. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, cleanup is a breeze—giving you more time to soak in the sunshine (or cozy up indoors) with your masterpiece.

This bright and creamy burrata salad bursts with colorful tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic drizzle that makes every forkful feel special. Perfect for summer entertaining, a quick weeknight treat, or pairing alongside crusty bread, it’s adaptable to whatever mood you’re in. And if you’re dreaming of a vibrant, refreshing starter that sparks conversation and delight, here it is—your new go-to salad that shines in every season but truly belongs on a sunny afternoon.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN FRESH BURRATA SALAD WITH TOMATOES, BASIL, AND BALSAMIC

Before you dive in, let’s talk about the heart and soul of this salad: its ingredients. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making every bite a perfect balance.

• Fresh Burrata Cheese

This delicate cheese is the star of the show. Its soft, creamy interior oozes out the moment you break it open, creating a luscious, rich base that pulls all the salad elements together.

• Cherry Tomatoes

Bite-sized bursts of sweetness and acidity, cherry tomatoes add a juicy pop and vibrant color contrast to the salad, keeping each forkful light and refreshing.

• Heirloom Tomatoes

With their varied shapes and hues, heirloom tomatoes bring a beautiful rustic look and a deeper, more complex sweetness compared to standard tomatoes.

• Fresh Basil Leaves

Aromatic and herbaceous, torn basil adds an uplifting fragrance and a peppery herbal note that brightens the entire dish.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A silky drizzle of high-quality olive oil enriches the salad with fruity undertones, rounding out the sharpness of the tomatoes and vinegar.

• Balsamic Vinegar

Opt for an aged balsamic for a syrupy, tangy-sweet accent that elevates every ingredient and ties the salad together.

• Salt

A simple sprinkle of salt amplifies all the fresh flavors, bringing out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the burrata.

• Freshly Ground Black Pepper

A dash of pepper adds a gentle kick and earthy warmth, balancing the salad’s bright and creamy elements.

• Honey (Optional)

If you love a hint of sweetness, a drizzle of honey complements the vinegar’s tang while harmonizing with the juicy tomatoes.

• Toasted Pine Nuts or Walnuts (Optional)

For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, scatter toasted nuts on top—this textural contrast makes the salad even more irresistible.

HOW TO MAKE FRESH BURRATA SALAD WITH TOMATOES, BASIL, AND BALSAMIC

This salad comes together in just a few simple steps, yet each move adds a layer of flavor and texture. From prepping the tomatoes to drizzling on the finishing touches, follow along for a foolproof build.

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Begin by slicing the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size, ensuring each piece is bite-sized. Cut the heirloom tomatoes into generous wedges to showcase their beautiful colors and juicy flesh.

2. Arrange the Base

Place all the prepared tomatoes in a large, shallow serving dish or plate. Spread them out evenly so they form a colorful bed for the burrata.

3. Add Fresh Basil

Tear the basil leaves into small pieces using your fingers—this releases their aromatic oils. Scatter the basil over the tomatoes for a burst of herbal fragrance.

4. Place the Burrata

Gently place the burrata ball in the center, then break it open slightly with a knife or spoon so that its creamy interior spills out and mingles with the tomatoes.

5. Drizzle Dressings

Evenly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad. Follow with the balsamic vinegar, letting the dark droplets dot the tomatoes and cheese. If you’d like a touch more sweetness, drizzle honey over the top.

6. Season

Season with salt to taste, sprinkling it over the cheese and tomatoes. Grind a generous amount of fresh black pepper across the salad for a bit of warmth.

7. Add Crunch (Optional)

If you’re craving texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the salad. The nuts add a toasty, crunchy counterpoint to the creamy burrata.

8. Serve Immediately

This salad shines when fresh. Serve right away as a light starter or side dish alongside warm, crusty bread.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR FRESH BURRATA SALAD WITH TOMATOES, BASIL, AND BALSAMIC

When it comes to serving this Burrata Salad, presentation and pairings can elevate it from a simple side to the centerpiece of your meal. Think about the visual appeal—arranging the salad on a rustic wooden board or a crisp white platter makes the colors pop. Pairing is equally fun: a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé brings out the tomato’s sweetness, while a light Prosecco adds effervescence. For gatherings, serve family-style so guests can scoop up their perfect portions, or plate individual salads with a small cluster of microgreens for a restaurant-worthy touch. Add a few lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves a hint of citrus zing.

• Serve on a rustic wooden board with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up every creamy drop.
• Drizzle a balsamic reduction on top for an even deeper tang and stunning presentation.
• Garnish with edible flowers or delicate microgreens to turn this simple salad into an elegant starter.
• Pair with a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light rosé to complement the salad’s bright flavors.

HOW TO STORE FRESH BURRATA SALAD WITH TOMATOES, BASIL, AND BALSAMIC

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers or need to prep ahead, proper storage is key to maintaining that fresh, vibrant flavor. Since the burrata’s creamy center can become a bit runny over time and the tomatoes release liquid, storing components separately helps preserve texture. Keep everything cold and covered to prevent fridge odors from seeping in. And remember, salads dressed with oil and vinegar won’t last as long as dry preparations, so aim to consume within a day or two for the best experience.

• Store components separately in airtight containers: keep the burrata in its original packaging or a sealed box, and place the tomatoes and basil in another to avoid soggy leaves.
• If already dressed, cover with plastic wrap directly on the salad surface to minimize oxidation and moisture loss.
• Keep in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back of the lower shelf, for maximum freshness.
• Consume any leftovers within 24 hours for optimal texture and flavor; beyond that, the burrata may lose its signature creaminess and the tomatoes can become watery.

CONCLUSION

This Fresh Burrata Salad with Tomatoes, Basil, and Balsamic has all the hallmarks of a summertime favorite: bright colors, layers of flavor, and an effortless assembly that feels both casual and special. From the first creamy bite of burrata to the sweet pop of cherry tomatoes, every mouthful offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The combination of fresh basil and aged balsamic vinegar creates a dance of herbal and tangy notes, while a drizzle of olive oil and the optional drizzle of honey bring it all together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re hosting friends in the backyard or simply craving a light lunch that feels indulgent, this salad is your go-to. It’s beginner-friendly, requiring no cooking beyond simple slicing and arranging, which means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moment.

Feel free to print this recipe and save it in your favorite binder or kitchen journal—having a go-to guide at your fingertips makes weeknight meal planning a breeze. You can also tuck this article away for future gatherings, ensuring your next summer soiree gets off to a deliciously fresh start. And don’t forget, you’ll find a handy FAQ section below if you have any questions about ingredient swaps, storage tips, or troubleshooting any step.

I’d love to hear how your salad turns out! Drop a comment, share your own creative twists, or ask any questions you may have in the comments below. Whether you’re a burrata newbie or a tomato aficionado, let’s chat about flavor combinations, serving ideas, or anything else that helps make this salad shine on your table. Your feedback and stories make this cooking journey so much more fun!

Print Recipe

Fresh Burrata Salad with Tomatoes, Basil, and Balsamic

Author: Isabella Rames

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins

Calories: 1150

Description

Creamy burrata meets sweet heirloom and cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic drizzle. Drizzled with olive oil and honey for a vibrant, refreshing starter.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 ball of fresh burrata cheese (about 8 oz)

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered

• 1 cup heirloom tomatoes, cut into wedges

• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)

• ¹⁄₄ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the tomatoes. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters depending on their size. Cut the heirloom tomatoes into wedges.
2. Arrange the tomatoes in a large, shallow serving dish or plate.
3. Tear the fresh basil leaves into small pieces and scatter them over the tomatoes.
4. Take the burrata cheese and gently place it in the center of the salad, breaking it open slightly so that the creamy inside is exposed.
5. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over the salad as well.
6. Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Optionally, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
8. Serve immediately as a light starter or side dish.

Note

• Fresh burrata is key to this salad’s creamy texture and rich flavor.
• If you can’t find burrata, you can substitute with fresh mozzarella, though it won’t have the same creamy interior.
• The honey can be omitted if you prefer a more tangy flavor from the balsamic vinegar.
• Use a variety of heirloom tomatoes for a more vibrant and colorful dish.
• This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner paired with crusty bread.

Keywords: burrata salad, tomato basil salad, fresh burrata, balsamic dressing, summer appetizer, easy salad