Burrata Salad

There’s something quietly comforting about a burrata salad. It feels special without being fussy, and it comes together in a way that fits real life. Creamy burrata, fresh produce, and a simple dressing create a plate that works just as well for a quick dinner as it does for a slow lunch at home. This is the kind of recipe people return to because it doesn’t demand much but always delivers. I usually reach for it when evenings feel busy and I still want something fresh on the table. A burrata salad brings ease, balance, and a little calm to everyday meals.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simple pleasure. The flavors feel fresh and cozy at the same time, with creamy, juicy, and crisp elements in every bite. It’s weeknight-friendly because there’s no complicated prep, and it’s flexible enough to work with what’s already in your fridge. You can serve it as a light main, a shared side, or a crowd-pleasing starter. It also holds up well for leftovers, making it practical for small households. This burrata salad fits budget-conscious cooking too, since a few good ingredients go a long way. It’s the kind of dish people save on Pinterest because it’s reliable, adaptable, and easy to come back to again and again.

Ingredients

Tip: Choose fresh burrata that feels soft and heavy for its size for the creamiest center.

  • Burrata cheese – 2 large balls (about 200 g total)
  • Ripe tomatoes – 2 cups, sliced or chopped
  • Fresh arugula – 2 cups
  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Balsamic vinegar or glaze – 1 tablespoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
  • Fresh basil leaves – ¼ cup, torn

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Wash and dry the arugula and basil thoroughly. Slice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, keeping their juices. Gently remove the burrata from the packaging and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes so the center softens.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
There’s no actual cooking here, but give the tomatoes a moment to rest with a pinch of salt. This draws out their juices and deepens their flavor, creating a natural dressing base that smells fresh and slightly sweet.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Spread the arugula on a wide serving plate. Scatter the tomatoes evenly over the greens, along with their juices. Place the burrata gently on top, keeping it whole for now so it stays creamy inside.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic over everything. Sprinkle with black pepper and basil. Let the salad rest for a couple of minutes so the flavors settle and mingle, then gently break open the burrata just before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This recipe saves time because it’s mostly assembly, not cooking. You can prep the ingredients earlier in the day and bring everything together when you’re ready to eat. It works well for meal planning since leftovers can be reused, and it doesn’t require reheating or extra cleanup. It’s calm, flexible cooking for later.

Tips & Tricks

  • Bring the burrata to room temperature: Cold burrata stays firm and less creamy. Letting it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving makes a big difference in texture and flavor. Skipping this step is a common mistake that dulls the final dish.
  • Salt the tomatoes lightly first: This small step helps release juices and builds flavor naturally. Adding salt at the end often leaves the salad tasting flat instead of balanced and fresh.
  • Use a wide plate, not a bowl: A shallow plate keeps the ingredients visible and evenly dressed. Deep bowls tend to hide the burrata and pool dressing at the bottom.
  • Add dressing gradually: Drizzling slowly helps you avoid overdressing. Too much oil or vinegar can overpower the delicate cheese, so stop as soon as everything looks lightly coated.

Variations

Meaty Version
Add thin slices of prosciutto or grilled chicken on the side or layered under the burrata. The salty, savory notes pair beautifully with the creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes, making the salad filling enough for dinner without changing its simple feel.

Vegetarian Option
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it heartier by adding roasted chickpeas or white beans. They bring extra texture and help the salad feel more satisfying while keeping everything plant-based and cozy.

Ingredient Swap
Swap tomatoes for roasted red peppers or sliced peaches when tomatoes aren’t in season. The sweetness works well with burrata and keeps the salad fresh and adaptable throughout the year.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Try adding fresh thyme, oregano, or a pinch of chili flakes. These small additions lift the flavor without overpowering the dish, giving it a slightly different personality each time you make it.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm bread or focaccia to scoop up the creamy burrata and tomato juices. It turns the salad into a relaxed, comforting meal that feels complete.
  • Alongside Grilled Protein: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for an easy family dinner. The salad stays light while the protein adds balance.
  • As a Sharing Plate: Place it in the center of the table for casual gatherings. It looks inviting and encourages everyone to dig in together.
  • Light Lunch Plate: Add a small bowl of soup or a handful of olives for a cozy lunch that feels intentional but effortless.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind the greens may soften, but the flavors will still be pleasant the next day.
  • Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t recommended, as heat changes the texture of the burrata and greens.
  • Freezing: Freezing is not suitable for this recipe. Burrata and fresh vegetables don’t thaw well and lose their texture and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: Prep all ingredients separately and store them chilled. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Rest Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

Per serving, this recipe contains roughly 250–320 calories and 10–14 grams of protein. Burrata provides calcium and fats, while tomatoes and greens contribute vitamins and fiber. Values are estimates and can vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and additions.

FAQs

You can prep ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving.

Serving burrata straight from the fridge reduces creaminess.

Fresh mozzarella works, though it’s less creamy.

Too much tomato juice or dressing can cause this.

Conclusion

This recipe is meant to feel easy and comforting, not complicated. It’s flexible enough to match your mood, your fridge, and your schedule. You can keep it simple or add your own twist, and it still feels like something you’ll want to make again. A burrata salad fits into everyday life because it doesn’t ask for perfection, just good ingredients and a few quiet minutes in the kitchen. Save it, reuse it, and let it evolve with you. Sometimes the simplest meals are the ones that stick.