Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Summer Delight

Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and the creamy richness of burrata cheese. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner. The origins of this dish can be traced back to Italy, where burrata cheese hails from the Puglia region, known for its lush landscapes and agricultural heritage.

People love Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad for its incredible taste and texture. The juicy, ripe tomatoes burst with flavor, while the burrata adds a luxurious creaminess that elevates the entire experience. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, requiring minimal cooking and just a few fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that perfectly captures the essence of summer!

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened work best)
• 8 oz burrata cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk them together until well blended. This marinade will not only enhance the flavor of the tomatoes but also add a delightful tang to the burrata. 2. Season the marinade with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little kick, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. I love the subtle heat they bring to the dish! 3. Once the marinade is well mixed, set it aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the tomatoes.

Preparing the Tomatoes

4. Rinse the tomatoes under cool water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. 5. Slice the tomatoes into thick wedges or rounds, depending on your preference. I usually go for wedges as they hold the marinade beautifully and look stunning on the plate. 6. Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the tomatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Gently toss the tomatoes with your hands or a spatula to ensure every piece is covered in the marinade. 7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to soak up all those delicious flavors. If you have more time, you can let them marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for an even deeper flavor.

Preparing the Burrata

8. While the tomatoes are marinating, take the burrata cheese out of the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the cheese to soften and become creamier, making it easier to spread on the tomatoes. 9. Once the burrata has warmed up a bit, carefully open the package. You’ll notice that burrata has a delicate outer shell with creamy curds inside. Gently pull apart the burrata into smaller pieces or leave it whole, depending on how you want to present it.

Assembling the Salad

10. After the tomatoes have marinated, it’s time to assemble the salad. Start by arranging the marinated tomato slices on a large serving platter or individual plates. I like to create a beautiful pattern with the tomatoes, overlapping them slightly for visual appeal. 11. Next, take the pieces of burrata and place them strategically among the tomatoes. You can either dollop the burrata on top of the tomatoes or nestle it in between the slices. Either way, it’s going to look gorgeous! 12. Drizzle any remaining marinade from the bowl over the assembled salad. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish even more enticing.

Finishing Touches

13. Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them generously over the salad. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the tomatoes and burrata beautifully. 14. For an extra pop of flavor, you can drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the top, along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is optional, but I find it elevates the dish even further. 15. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture. Just toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re golden and fragrant, then sprinkle them over the salad.

Serving the Salad

16. Serve the marinated tomato burrata salad immediately, while the tomatoes are still fresh and vibrant. This salad is perfect as a starter or a side dish for any meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or even as a light lunch on its own. 17. If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The flavors will continue to meld, but the tomatoes may lose some of their texture. Enjoy this delightful marinated tomato burrata salad with

Conclusion:

In summary, this Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their summer dining experience. The combination of juicy, marinated tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing appetizer, a side dish at a barbecue, or a light lunch on a warm day, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can add fresh basil or arugula for an extra layer of flavor, or even toss in some grilled vegetables for a heartier dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling a balsamic reduction over the top or adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. The beauty of this Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and spread the love for this incredible Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad!

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