Man yall know that midweek slump feeling when your energy is flat and you need a quick pick me up to keep rolling through the week. Burrata Caprese Salad is that rescue dish that brings fresh vibes straight to your plate. You dont need hours or fancy skills. A little assembly, a gentle spoon coat of olive oil and bam you got a dish that feels dang fancy yet is super easy.
It only takes minutes but it brightens your whole evening. The soft burrata cheese breaks open with a creamy center that pairs with juicy tomato slices like they were made for each other. A swirl of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy-sweet note and youre ready to dive right in.
Youll feel like a kitchen hero even when life is hectic. This isnt just salad youre building a moment where fresh flavors shine and even a quick throw together makes you feel good. So grab a bowl and lets roll.
Why this salad feels like comfort food
You might not think of salad as comfort but this twist on Caprese salad hits all the right spots. Here is why it works so dang well
- Soft creamy cheese meets bright tomato power for a texture party in your mouth
- A drizzle of good olive oil and balsamic like a flavor hug on every bite
- Fresh basil leaves adds that herb kick that smells like summer in your kitchen
- Its super fast so you still get to kick back with no fuss
- Easy to scale up for friends or pack as a chillable lunch
Ingredient rainbow
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes sliced thick so you catch all those juicy bits
- 1 ball burrata cheese set on the counter a bit to soften up first
- Handful fresh basil leaves torn right before you dress them
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil poured slowly for that gentle spoon coat
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze if you like it sweeter
- Flaky sea salt to taste for that little crunch of salt in each bite
- Fresh cracked black pepper to finish off that savory kick
- Optional drizzle honey for a touch more sweet if you feel like it
One bowl assembly steps
- Arrange tomato slices in a shallow bowl or on a platter so they overlap just a bit. It looks pretty and holds the cheese nicely.
- Place the burrata ball right in the middle. Dont worry if it looks perfect it will break open soon enough and that creamy goodness will flow.
- Tuck torn basil leaves around and on top of the cheese and tomatoes. This gives fresh green pops in every forkful.
- Drizzle the olive oil slowly over the tomatoes and cheese so they get a light spoon coat. Dont rush this part or youll miss those silky layers.
- Next swirl the balsamic glaze or vinegar around the plate. It forms those fancy loops that look like you spent hours.
- Sprinkle the flaky salt gently over everything to hit both tomatoes and burrata in just the right spots.
- Finish with fresh cracked pepper and a little extra basil if you want more color. Grab a fork and dig in.
Prep tips for smooth sailing
Slice tomatoes just before you plan to eat to avoid that soggy feeling. If you cut them too early they let go of juice and get limp.
Let the burrata sit on the counter for about ten minutes. It softens up so the center flows out like creamy dream when you break it open.
Use good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This is a simple salad so each ingredient shines. A cheaper oil wont give you that smooth mouthfeel.
Tear basil leaves by hand not with a knife. Pressing them sharpens the edges and turns them brown fast so ripping is the way to go.
The first bite moment
When you lift that forkful youll see a little bit of each ingredient riding together. A sliver of tomato with creamy burrata and a tear of basil all dressed in olive oil wonder. That first bite is what youre here for.
Your taste buds get sweet tang from the balsamic splash and a salty hit from that flaky sea salt. It kinda feels like your mouth is at a summer party with guests wearing different flavor hats.
Table side garnish sparks
You can pass around a little plate of extra basil leaves so folks add more if they wanna. Its fun for guests to customize their own bites if youre hosting a get together.
Keep small bowls of extra olive oil and balsamic glaze on the table too. Some like more tang some like more silk so let them drizzle however they see fit. Theyll appreciate the choice.
Leftover cuddle plan
If you got leftovers pack them gently in an airtight container. Keep the cheese and tomatoes snug so they dont roll around and get all broken up before you eat them again.
Before you dig in again give it one more gentle spoon coat of olive oil. The tomatoes may soak some up so that fresh drizzle brings back that silky feel.
You could even stir in a few torn arugula leaves or baby spinach if you want more green life. Or fold in shredded rotisserie chicken if you need more protein for dinner on the fly.
Wrap it up plus five FAQs
Still got a question or two about nailing your Burrata Caprese Salad slice dive on these common asks.
- Can I make this ahead of time You sure can mix most things up to two hours beforehand. Keep it chilled and dress it just before serving so the basil stays bright and the tomatoes dont get soggy.
- What if I cant find burrata Fresh mozzarella is your backup friend. It lacks that creamy center but still melts in your mouth good especially with a bit extra olive oil.
- How do I store leftovers Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. Drizzle fresh olive oil before you eat them so the texture bounces back.
- Is there a vegan swap Try a cashew based cream cheese style ball in place of burrata. Its not exactly the same but it brings a similar smooth vibe.
- Can I add other veggies Heck yes you can throw in sliced avocado or thin cucumber ribbons for extra crunch. They fit right in and add more color to your salad rainbow.
Burrata Caprese Salad
Equipment
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Small saucepan
- 1 Serving platter
Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes About 1 lb total.
- 1 ball burrata cheese 8 oz.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- to taste none salt
- to taste none black pepper
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it reduce for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- While the balsamic is reducing, wash the tomatoes and slice them into thick rounds. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving platter, overlapping slightly.
- Open the burrata cheese and gently place it in the center of the tomato slices. If the burrata is large, slice it into two or three pieces to share.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the tomatoes and burrata.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by the balsamic reduction. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the creamy burrata alongside the juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil.
