If you are craving a dish that feels like a celebration of fresh summer flavors, the Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe is exactly what you need. This simple yet stunning salad brings together creamy, luscious burrata cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes and the sweet tang of balsamic glaze, all highlighted by the aromatic freshness of basil. It’s a perfect way to enjoy light, vibrant ingredients that play beautifully off each other, creating a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or a fancy starter, this salad never fails to impress and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe relies on just a handful of simple ingredients, each one indispensable for building the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and herbaceous brightness. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- Fresh burrata cheese: The star of the dish, burrata provides a rich, creamy center that melts in your mouth.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: These burst with juicy sweetness and add vibrant color.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity silkiness that ties the salad together.
- Balsamic glaze: Offers a sweet and tangy punch that perfectly complements the cheese and tomatoes.
- Fresh basil leaves: Bring a fragrant, peppery freshness that brightens every forkful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
How to Make Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Tomatoes
Start by halving your cherry tomatoes. Arrange them artfully on a serving platter or plate; their juicy bursts of red and orange will immediately make the salad inviting and colorful. This base lays down the perfect fresh, sweet counterpoint to the creaminess you’ll add next.
Step 2: Add the Burrata Cheese
Gently place a whole ball of fresh burrata cheese in the center of the tomato bed. This creamy cheese is delicate, so handle it with care. Its mellow, buttery texture will act as a luscious centerpiece that invites eager spoons to dive in.
Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle a generous tablespoon of good quality olive oil over the tomatoes and burrata, lending a rich, fruity note that enhances the flavors. Follow up with a tablespoon of balsamic glaze, which brings a shiny, tantalizingly sweet and tangy finish that balances the creaminess and acidity.
Step 4: Season with Salt and Pepper
Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Salt will amplify the sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the cheese, while pepper adds a gentle kick that brightens the dish.
Step 5: Garnish with Fresh Basil Leaves
Tuck fresh basil leaves around and on top of the salad for a pop of green and an herbal lift. The aroma from the basil is like a fresh breeze on a warm day, making each bite feel light and refreshing.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right away with crunchy crackers, toasted crostini, or simply on its own to savor every texture and flavor at its peak freshness.
How to Serve Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a handful of crushed toasted nuts like pine nuts can add a delightful crunch. For a touch of extra luxury, a drizzle of high-quality aged balsamic vinegar or a few microgreens bring additional layers of complexity and freshness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread, grilled vegetables, or a light pasta dish. It’s also a lovely addition alongside a chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling rosé for a refreshing summer meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or layer the components in clear glass jars for a casual picnic vibe. You can also scatter edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies on top for a garden-party effect that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The burrata is best devoured within one day for optimal creaminess, but tomatoes and basil will hold up well for up to two days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate if possible to drizzle fresh before serving.
Freezing
Because burrata is a fresh cheese with delicate texture, freezing is not recommended as it will compromise the creamy interior and texture of the salad. Cherry tomatoes can be frozen but will become mushy upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and not advised. Instead, plan to enjoy it soon after assembly for the best flavor and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?
You can swap burrata for fresh mozzarella if needed, but burrata offers a creamier, richer texture that mozzarella just doesn’t have. This makes the dish more indulgent and special.
What type of balsamic glaze should I use?
Look for a high-quality balsamic glaze with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. You can also make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or sugar until syrupy.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
For a vegan twist, try substituting burrata with a creamy cashew cheese or a firm tofu-based cheese, though the flavor and texture will be different. The rest of the ingredients remain fresh and vibrant as is.
How do I keep the basil from wilting?
Add the basil leaves right before serving to preserve their bright color and fresh flavor. If prepping early, keep the leaves refrigerated separately wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Can this salad be made for a large gathering?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well and makes a fantastic, eye-catching appetizer for parties. Just assemble it shortly before guests arrive to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe is one of those effortless dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. It’s fresh, creamy, sweet, and herbaceous—a combo that always hits the spot. I hope you give this refreshing salad a try and discover how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something truly lovely and memorable.
Print
Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and elegant appetizer featuring fresh burrata cheese paired with sweet cherry tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Ready in just 10 minutes and perfect for serving with crackers or crostini.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 ball of fresh burrata cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Arrange Tomatoes: Place the halved cherry tomatoes evenly on a serving platter to create a colorful base.
- Add Burrata: Gently place the ball of fresh burrata cheese in the center of the tomato arrangement, being careful not to break it.
- Drizzle Oil and Glaze: Pour the olive oil evenly over the burrata and tomatoes, then drizzle with the balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the dish to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish: Scatter fresh basil leaves on top to add a fragrant, herbal note and vibrant color.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer alongside crackers, crostini, or enjoy it on its own.
Notes
- Use high-quality fresh burrata for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes if needed.
- For a vegan alternative, use dairy-free cheese and omit or replace balsamic glaze accordingly.
- Pair with crusty bread or toasted crostini for a delightful contrast in texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
