Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

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Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a beautifully simple and elegant dish that highlights the creamy, rich texture of burrata cheese paired with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Juicy cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, and fresh basil are layered with the burrata and drizzled with a sweet, tangy balsamic glaze. The combination of flavors is perfectly balanced, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal.

I first made this salad for a summer dinner party, and it quickly became a favorite. The creaminess of the burrata contrasted wonderfully with the freshness of the greens and the sweet acidity of the glaze. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can add sliced peaches or strawberries for a fruity twist, sprinkle toasted nuts for crunch, or serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Whether as a starter or a centerpiece, Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a stunning dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at!

Perfect for:

  • Light lunches
  • Appetizers
  • Summer gatherings
  • Picnics
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze will become a go-to favorite:

  • Irresistible Cheese: Burrata’s creamy interior contrasts beautifully with the fresh salad, adding richness and indulgence.
  • Elegant Presentation: The simple yet striking presentation of burrata and fresh greens makes it a visually stunning dish.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of balsamic glaze complements the creamy burrata, while the fresh vegetables add a crisp crunch.
  • Light Yet Satisfying: This salad is light enough for a summer lunch but filling enough to be a meal on its own.
  • Fresh and Vibrant: The use of fresh herbs and tomatoes brightens the dish, giving it a fresh, summer feel.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the salad ingredients in advance, making it an easy dish to assemble right before serving.
  • Customizable: Add extra toppings like toasted nuts, olives, or prosciutto to make it your own.
  • Quick and Simple: With minimal preparation and a few key ingredients, this dish can be made in under 20 minutes.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: It’s an easy, elegant choice for parties or special gatherings.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: A perfect vegetarian option that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: None
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ball of fresh burrata cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted

For the Balsamic Glaze:

  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Ingredient Highlights

  • Burrata Cheese: Creamy and indulgent, this cheese elevates the salad with its rich flavor and velvety texture.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Adds a tangy-sweet finish that ties the flavors of the dish together beautifully.
  • Fresh Basil: The aromatic fragrance of basil brings a fresh herbal note to balance the creaminess of the burrata.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Provide a burst of sweetness and freshness to complement the savory cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Balsamic Glaze:

  1. Combine Vinegar and Honey: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey.
  2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
  3. Cool: Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Prepare Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens and cherry tomatoes together.
  2. Add Burrata: Carefully cut the burrata in half and place it on top of the salad.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts.
  4. Drizzle with Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, ensuring a light coating.

Serve:

  1. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately as a fresh, light appetizer or main dish.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze:

  • As a Starter: Perfect as a first course for a dinner party or celebration.
  • With Crusty Bread: Pair with a slice of toasted sourdough for a more substantial meal.
  • On a Charcuterie Board: Add it to a spread with other cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a luxurious appetizer.
  • With Grilled Meats: Serve as a side to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
  • For a Picnic: Pack the ingredients in separate containers and assemble the salad on-site for a fresh, outdoor meal.
  • With Grilled Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers to the salad for a more hearty option.
  • As a Light Lunch: Enjoy it solo with a glass of chilled white wine for a simple, satisfying meal.
  • With Prosciutto: Wrap slices of prosciutto around the burrata for an extra savory touch.
  • For Special Occasions: A great choice for summer gatherings, brunches, or casual celebrations.
  • With Fruit: Add slices of peaches or figs for a sweet and savory combination.

Additional Tips

  • Serve Fresh: Burrata is best served fresh, so assemble the salad just before serving.
  • Homemade Glaze: If you have time, make your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of brown sugar for extra depth of flavor.
  • Toasted Nuts: For added texture, use toasted almonds or walnuts instead of pine nuts.
  • Herb Variation: Experiment with different fresh herbs like mint or oregano for a new flavor twist.
  • Burrata Storage: If you have leftovers, store burrata in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within a day or two.

Recipe Variations

  • Add Grilled Peaches: For a touch of sweetness, add grilled peaches to the salad.
  • Add Olives: Black or green olives will add a salty bite that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the burrata.
  • Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free bread or crackers for a gluten-free option.
  • Vegan Option: Replace burrata with a vegan cheese alternative such as cashew cheese or tofu.
  • Nuts Substitute: Use roasted almonds or pecans if you don’t have pine nuts on hand.
  • Balsamic Vinegar Swap: Try red wine vinegar in place of balsamic for a lighter, tangier flavor.
  • Add Avocado: For a creamy twist, add sliced avocado to the salad.
  • Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some chili flakes over the salad for a bit of heat.
  • Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice to the balsamic glaze for a citrusy finish.

Special Equipment

  • Pan for Glaze: A small saucepan for reducing the balsamic vinegar.
  • Salad Spinner: To dry the mixed greens thoroughly before assembling the salad.
  • Toaster or Oven: For toasting pine nuts or other nuts.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the burrata and tomatoes with precision.
  • Small Whisk: To mix and combine the balsamic glaze ingredients.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
    It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the burrata, but you can prepare the balsamic glaze and chop vegetables ahead of time.
  2. How long can I store leftovers?
    The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
  3. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
    Yes, store-bought balsamic glaze can be used, though homemade glaze adds a deeper flavor.
  4. Can I substitute burrata with mozzarella?
    Yes, mozzarella is a great substitute for burrata, though it lacks the creamy center.
  5. How can I make the salad more filling?
    Add roasted chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas to make the salad more hearty.
  6. Is this salad gluten-free?
    Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free unless served with bread or croutons.
  7. Can I freeze this salad?
    It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the delicate nature of burrata.
  8. What other cheeses can I use?
    Goat cheese, feta, or ricotta would all work well as alternatives to burrata.
  9. How do I prevent the balsamic glaze from being too runny?
    Ensure the glaze thickens properly by simmering it long enough to achieve a syrupy consistency.
  10. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
    Yes, feel free to add cucumber, bell peppers, or red onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a fresh and elegant dish that highlights the creamy, decadent texture of burrata cheese. Paired with ripe tomatoes, peppery arugula, and a drizzle of sweet, tangy balsamic glaze, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy cheese, crisp greens, and the subtle sweetness of the glaze makes this dish both light and indulgent.

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal as a starter, side dish, or even a light meal. You can customize it with additional toppings like fresh basil, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread, Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a guaranteed showstopper.

I can’t wait to see how your Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!

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