If youโre searching for a refreshing dish that perfectly combines the flavors of summer, look no further than this Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze. Bursting with vibrant colors and tantalizing tastes, this salad is not only visually appealing but also simple to prepare. The creamy burrata cheese pairs beautifully with the juicy tomatoes, while the homemade balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that elevates the entire dish. Perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer at your next gathering, this recipe highlights fresh ingredients that are readily available during the warmer months. savory turkey taco salad bowl delicious Southwest chicken salad With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can serve this exquisite salad in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Whether youโre hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something light and delicious, this Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad will quickly become a favorite.
Why Youโll Love This Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Hereโs what youโll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe heirloom or cherry tomatoes for the best flavor; they should be vibrant in color and slightly firm to the touch
- Burrata Cheese: Select high-quality burrata which is creamy on the inside; it adds richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes
- Balsamic Glaze: You can either buy pre-made balsamic glaze or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; it enhances both taste and texture in the salad
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant aroma; look for vibrant green leaves without blemishes to maximize freshness
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by washing your tomatoes thoroughly under cold water. Depending on their size, slice them into wedges or halve them if youโre using cherry tomatoes.
Step 2: Marinate the Tomatoes
In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and freshly chopped basil. Toss gently to ensure all tomatoes are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Plate the Ingredients
On a serving platter, arrange the marinated tomatoes first. Make sure they are spread out evenly to showcase their colors.
Step 4: Add Burrata
Tear open fresh burrata cheese into pieces and place them strategically over the marinated tomatoes on the platter.
Step 5: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Generously drizzle homemade or store-bought balsamic glaze over the assembled salad. This step adds an exquisite finish to your dish.
Step 6: Garnish
Finish off with additional fresh basil leaves if desired for added color and aroma.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Select Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality produce will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your salad
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing your marinated tomatoes to sit in the refrigerator before serving can intensify their flavors
- Add Texture: Consider adding toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch that complements creamy burrata well
How to Serve Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinated tomatoes a day in advance by letting them sit in their marinade in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Burrata should be added just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the burrata separate from the tomatoes if possible to preserve its freshness longer.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so it doesnโt require reheating. If you prefer a warm dish, gently warm the tomatoes briefly on low heat, but avoid overheating as it can affect their texture.
Suggestions for Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
Selecting the right tomatoes is crucial for your marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze. Opt for ripe, seasonal tomatoes as they offer the best flavor. Roma or heirloom varieties work beautifully due to their sweetness and juiciness. Avoid underripe tomatoes; they can taste bland and ruin your dish. Also, steer clear of overly soft tomatoes, as they may lack texture. Always smell the tomatoes before purchasing; a fragrant aroma indicates freshness. With the right tomatoes, your salad will burst with vibrant flavors.
Preparing the Burrata
When preparing burrata for your salad, itโs essential to handle it gently. Burrata has a delicate outer shell filled with creamy curds, which can easily break apart if mishandled. Take it out of the refrigerator just before serving to allow it to soften slightly. This enhances its creamy texture and flavor when combined with the marinated tomatoes. Avoid cutting into the burrata too early; waiting until serving allows guests to experience that delightful creaminess in each bite.
Balancing Flavors
Achieving a perfect balance of flavors in your marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze is vital. Use high-quality balsamic vinegar to avoid overpowering the dish with acidity. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and complements the sweet notes of tomatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, but remember: you can always add more, so start small! Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano enhances flavor without overwhelming it. Taste as you go to ensure every component shines equally.
Marinating Time
Marinating time can significantly affect your saladโs overall taste profile. While you might be tempted to rush this step, allowing your tomatoes to marinate for at least 30 minutes is essential. This timeframe lets them absorb flavors from any seasonings used, creating a delicious synergy between ingredients. However, avoid marinating for too long; excessive time can lead to mushy tomatoes that lose their appealing texture. Find that sweet spot for optimal flavor without sacrificing quality.
FAQs
What are the best types of tomatoes for this salad?
When making a marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze, consider using heirloom or Roma tomatoes as top choices. These varieties provide excellent sweetness and juiciness that enhance overall flavor profiles in salads. Heirloom tomatoes bring unique colors and shapes, adding visual appeal along with taste. If you cannot find these specific types, look for any vine-ripened options at your local market; freshness matters most! Remember that organic tomatoes often have better flavor due to their growing conditions.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare parts of your marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze ahead of time, but there are some guidelines to follow. Itโs best to marinate your tomatoes several hours prior rather than a full day in advance; this helps maintain their texture while allowing them to soak up flavors effectively. However, keep burrata separate until youโre ready to serve because its creamy interior may become overly runny if left too long in marinade juices.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers from your marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze effectively, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator immediately after serving. Itโs essential not to leave any food out at room temperature for prolonged periods due to safety concerns about bacteria growth on fresh produce and dairy products like burrata cheese. Enjoy within two days for the best taste experience; however, note that the texture may change over time as ingredients release moisture.
Can I use other cheeses instead of burrata?
Absolutely! While burrata adds a rich creaminess thatโs hard to replicate, you can substitute other cheeses in your marinated tomato salad if desired. Fresh mozzarella works well as it shares a similar mild flavor profile while providing a pleasant chewiness when paired with juicy tomatoes and balsamic glaze. Goat cheese also makes an excellent alternative due its tangy notes that contrast beautifully against sweet elements within this dish; just remember these changes may slightly alter overall taste.
Conclusion for Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Creating a delicious marinated tomato and burrata salad with balsamic glaze requires attention to detail at every stageโfrom choosing quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese down through proper seasoning techniques and balancing flavors throughout preparation steps leading up until serving time! By following our suggestions on common mistakes to avoid during preparation alongside answering frequently asked questions regarding storage options or alternative ingredient choices availableโyouโll set yourself up for success while impressing friends or family members alike! Enjoy crafting this vibrant dish bursting with freshness today! strawberry crunch salad with champagne vinaigrette.

Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Enjoy a vibrant Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze that captures the essence of summer. This refreshing dish combines juicy heirloom tomatoes with creamy burrata, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light lunch or as an elegant appetizer, this salad is easy to prepare and ready in just 20 minutes. With its colorful presentation and delightful flavor, itโs sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe heirloom or cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh burrata cheese
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into wedges or halves.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Toss gently to coat and let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- On a serving platter, arrange the marinated tomatoes evenly.
- Tear burrata into pieces and place over the marinated tomatoes.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the salad.
- Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For added texture, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving. - Allowing the marinated tomatoes to chill in the refrigerator enhances their flavor. - Substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese for a different twist.