Delicious Burrata Caprese Salad: A Creamy & Vibrant Summer Delight

Summer salads should be just as beautiful as they are delicious, and this burrata caprese salad is an absolute masterpiece! Offering a fresh, decadent twist on the beloved classic Caprese, this dish artfully combines juicy, ripe heirloom tomatoes, sumptuously creamy burrata cheese, and fragrant fresh basil leaves. Each component is thoughtfully drizzled with a generous amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a delicate balsamic glaze, creating a perfect symphony of balanced flavors that truly celebrates the essence of summer. Whether you’re hosting an elegant garden party, enjoying a relaxed family barbecue, or simply seeking a light and refreshing meal, this elevated Caprese salad is an absolute must-try. Don’t let the warmer months slip by without savoring this vibrant, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious dish – it’s simple to prepare, elegant in presentation, and guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.

What Makes Burrata Caprese So Special? An Elevated Classic

This burrata Caprese salad takes the cherished classic Caprese and elevates it to new heights with the addition of rich, decadent burrata cheese. While traditional Caprese salads are undeniably wonderful, the inclusion of burrata introduces an unparalleled creamy texture that transforms every bite into an indulgent experience. Unlike standard fresh mozzarella, burrata features a delicate, thin outer shell made of mozzarella, encasing a luscious, almost buttery center filled with soft curds and cream (known as stracciatella). This unique interior bursts forth with milky goodness once punctured, creating a delightful contrast with the firm, sweet tomatoes.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. The combination of fresh, vibrant heirloom tomatoes—known for their diverse colors and superior flavor—fragrant basil leaves, and a luxurious drizzle of premium extra virgin olive oil works in harmony to enhance the natural sweetness and acidity of the ingredients. The optional addition of balsamic glaze further deepens the flavor profile, adding a touch of sweet tanginess that beautifully complements the creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes, resulting in a beautifully balanced and exceptionally satisfying dish that is both light and filling.

Beyond its exquisite taste, this Caprese salad with burrata is also remarkably quick and easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. It makes a stunning course appetizer, a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood, or a stellar addition to an Italian-inspired salad spread. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a memorable part of any meal.

The Allure of Creamy Burrata Cheese

Burrata is a true gem in the world of Italian cheeses, a soft and creamy type of cheese that captivates with its unique texture and flavor. You’ll typically find it sold in plump, pristine balls, often submerged in a liquid brine to maintain its freshness and delicate structure. These usually come in sets of two 4-ounce balls, making them ideal for a shared appetizer or a generous side dish.

The exterior of burrata cheese is a thin, elastic pouch skillfully crafted from mozzarella. This delicate skin acts as a protective layer, concealing a glorious reservoir of milky, buttery liquid and shredded mozzarella curds within. The moment this skin is gently punctured, the rich, decadent interior spills out, creating a visually appealing and utterly delicious experience. This creamy core, known as stracciatella, is what truly sets burrata apart from its mozzarella cousin, offering a richer, more luxurious mouthfeel.

While burrata’s popularity has grown, it isn’t always readily available in every grocery store. It’s often considered a specialty cheese, so it’s a good idea to call your local cheese shops or gourmet grocery stores ahead of time to confirm they have it in stock. Seeking out this exquisite cheese is well worth the effort, as its distinct creaminess is the secret to elevating this Caprese salad beyond the ordinary.

The Perfect Pairing: Fresh Tomatoes and Aromatic Basil

A Caprese salad is defined by its core triumvirate of ingredients, and the quality of your tomatoes and basil is paramount for an outstanding Burrata Caprese. For tomatoes, seek out the ripest, most flavorful specimens you can find. Heirloom tomatoes are a fantastic choice not only for their vibrant array of colors—from deep reds and oranges to stripes and greens—but also for their complex, sweet, and often less acidic flavor profiles. Their varied shapes and sizes add significant visual appeal, transforming your salad into a work of art. Other excellent choices include meaty plum tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or even cherry or grape tomatoes for a smaller, bite-sized option. The key is to select tomatoes that are firm yet yielding, heavy for their size, and deeply aromatic, promising a burst of summer flavor with every bite.

Fresh basil, with its distinct sweet and peppery aroma, is the herbaceous soul of Caprese. Large, crisp, vibrant green leaves are preferred, offering both visual contrast and an indispensable layer of flavor. Basil should be added just before serving to maintain its freshness and prevent wilting. Its aromatic qualities complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the burrata, creating a harmonious and refreshing balance. Don’t be shy about adding a generous amount—the more basil, the more fragrant and authentic your Caprese will be.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Burrata Caprese Recipe

This Burrata Caprese salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience that embodies the joy and simplicity of summer dining. There are countless reasons why it consistently earns rave reviews, making it a staple in any warm-weather repertoire.

Effortlessly Elegant: No Ovens, No Fuss

One of the most appealing aspects of this salad is its incredible ease of preparation. In the heat of summer, the last thing anyone wants to do is slave over a hot stove or oven. This Burrata Caprese requires absolutely no cooking, relying solely on the fresh, natural goodness of its ingredients. With minimal slicing and arranging, you can create a stunning and sophisticated dish in mere minutes. It’s the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal, a spontaneous gathering, or when you simply want to enjoy delicious food without the culinary labor.

Vibrant and Visually Stunning

Beyond its fantastic taste, this Burrata Caprese salad is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant medley of colors—the deep reds, yellows, and oranges of ripe heirloom tomatoes, the lush green of fresh basil, and the pristine white of the creamy burrata—creates a truly picturesque presentation. Arranged artfully on a platter, it looks like a work of culinary art, making it an impressive centerpiece for any table. It’s a dish that tastes as good as it looks, stimulating the senses before the first bite.

Versatile for Any Occasion

This salad is incredibly versatile, adapting beautifully to various meal types and occasions. It shines as a sophisticated appetizer, whetting appetites before a grand Italian feast or any multi-course dinner. It also serves as an excellent side dish, complementing a wide array of main courses, from simple grilled chicken and steak to pan-seared fish. For a truly herbaceous and juicy dinner, try piling this salad onto a chicken Caprese recipe. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a light yet satisfying lunch or a delightful component of a larger salad spread. Its adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for everything from casual picnics to elegant brunches, ensuring it always fits the bill perfectly.

Essential Ingredients for Your Burrata Caprese

Creating an exceptional Burrata Caprese salad hinges on selecting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture of this simple yet profound dish.

Selecting the Best Tomatoes

The foundation of any great Caprese salad is the tomato. For the best flavor and texture, choose tomatoes that are meaty, ripe, and have minimal seeds. Heirloom tomatoes are often the preferred choice due to their rich, complex flavors and beautiful array of colors, which make for a stunning presentation. Other excellent options include Roma tomatoes, known for their firm flesh and lower moisture content, or San Marzano tomatoes, celebrated for their balanced sweetness and acidity. When selecting, look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly yielding to the touch, heavy for their size, and intensely aromatic. Avoid anything too soft or mealy.

The Star: Fresh Burrata Cheese

As discussed, burrata is the ingredient that truly elevates this Caprese. It’s a fresh Italian cheese, resembling a ball of mozzarella on the outside, but with a luscious, creamy interior (stracciatella) made from shredded mozzarella and cream. This rich filling provides a luxurious contrast to the fresh tomatoes. When buying, ensure the burrata is stored in liquid and appears plump and fresh. If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella balls can be used as a traditional substitute, though you’ll miss the signature creamy center.

Aromatic Basil Leaves

Fresh basil is non-negotiable for Caprese. Its sweet, peppery, and slightly anise-like flavor is essential. Opt for large, vibrant green basil leaves that are crisp and free from blemishes. These leaves provide both a burst of flavor and a beautiful green contrast to the red tomatoes and white cheese. For added green goodness or a slight variation in texture, you can also incorporate tender baby spinach or a light spring mix.

High-Quality Olive Oil

Since this salad is built on minimal ingredients, the quality of your olive oil truly shines. Always use a good quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Look for one that is cold-pressed and has a fruity, slightly peppery, or grassy aroma. A high-quality EVOO will impart a smooth, rich flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Balsamic Glaze (or Reduction)

Balsamic glaze, also known as balsamic vinegar reduction, is a sweet and tangy syrup that adds a beautiful depth of flavor and a touch of elegance to tomato salads. It’s a natural pairing with Caprese ingredients. You can find ready-made balsamic glaze in most grocery stores, or you can easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces to a thick, syrupy consistency. Its dark color provides a striking visual contrast against the white cheese.

Seasoning: Flaky Sea Salt and Freshly Cracked Black Pepper

Simple seasonings make a big impact. Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, offers a pleasant crunch and bursts of salinity that enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes. Kosher salt is also a good choice. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle warmth and aromatic finish. Adjust quantities to your personal taste preference.

Optional Enhancements: Pesto Vinaigrette

For an extra layer of herbaceous flavor and a zesty kick, consider drizzling a bit of basil pesto vinaigrette over your salad. This light, acidic dressing, infused with the vibrant taste of basil and often garlic and Parmesan, adds another dimension that is more than welcome. While optional, it can elevate the overall experience, especially if you love the robust flavors of pesto.

Recipe Variations: Get Creative with Your Caprese

While the classic Burrata Caprese is perfect as is, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with these delicious variations:

• Roasted Tomato Burrata Caprese: For an extra depth of rich, concentrated flavor, try slow-roasting cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or grape tomatoes before adding them to the salad. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful textural contrast.
• Pesto Caprese: Instead of, or in addition to, balsamic glaze, spoon dollops of fresh basil pesto directly onto the burrata for an intensely aromatic and flavorful experience.
• Citrus Caprese: Introduce a bright, zesty twist by adding thin slices of blood orange or grapefruit alongside the tomatoes. The citrus’s acidity provides a delightful counterpoint to the creamy burrata.
• Grilled Caprese: For a smoky dimension, lightly grill thick slices of tomatoes before assembling the salad. The char adds a fantastic savory note that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients.
• Add a Savory Element: Incorporate thinly sliced prosciutto, crispy pancetta, or even toasted pine nuts for added texture and a salty kick. A handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach can also be layered in for a peppery bite.

Equipment Used in this Recipe

Making this beautiful salad requires only a few basic kitchen tools:

• Platter (for elegant presentation)
• Serrated knife (for clean tomato slices)
• Cutting board
• Large spoon (for spreading burrata)
• Plastic wrap (for making ahead)

Simple Steps to Craft the Perfect Burrata Caprese Salad

Creating this stunning Burrata Caprese salad is incredibly straightforward, focusing on careful preparation and artful arrangement to highlight the natural beauty and flavors of its fresh ingredients.

1. Prepare Your Tomatoes with Precision.

   For perfectly sliced tomatoes that hold their shape and release their juices beautifully, a serrated knife is your best tool. Unlike a chef’s knife, its saw-like edge glides through the skin and flesh of moist, juicy tomatoes without squishing them. Lay your tomato on its side for stability and cut through the core horizontally rather than trying to slice from top to bottom, which can be more challenging and riskier. While round slices are traditional, some prefer to prepare tomato wedges for a different presentation and ease of eating. Aim for slices about 1/2-inch thick to ensure a good balance of tomato in each bite.

Serving Suggestions for Your Burrata Caprese

This Burrata Caprese salad is a remarkably versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide array of meals and occasions, bringing elegance and freshness to any table. Its light yet satisfying profile makes it incredibly adaptable.

As an Appetizer: Serve individual portions or a large platter as a refreshing starter. It’s perfect before classic pasta dishes like penne pomodoro or chicken spaghetti with Rotel. You can also offer it alongside crusty bruschetta or crostini, allowing guests to build their own bites.

As a Side Dish: For a heartier meal, enjoy this vibrant salad as a fresh side dish alongside grilled proteins. It’s a spectacular accompaniment to grilled chicken, a juicy shell steak, or various seafood options like grilled shrimp or baked fish. The fresh, tangy flavors cut through the richness of meats, creating a balanced meal.

For Brunch or Light Lunch: This salad makes an excellent light lunch or a sophisticated addition to a brunch spread. Complement it with a refreshing glass of crisp white wine, a festive Prosecco, or a bubbly Aperol Spritz for a truly delightful experience. Its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients make it ideal for daytime entertaining.

Don’t Forget the Bread! One of the best ways to enjoy every last drop of the deliciousness in this dish is to serve it with some crusty bread. The creamy burrata, juicy tomato liquid, and flavorful drizzles create a wonderful “sauce” at the bottom of the platter. A good sourdough French bread or a simple baguette is perfect for soaking up all those incredible flavors, ensuring none of that goodness is left behind. For an added touch, consider serving it with garlic bread or lightly toasted bread.

Consider Contrasting Textures: While the burrata and tomatoes are wonderfully moist and juicy, sometimes introducing another wet ingredient can dilute the experience. Instead, consider adding crisp radishes for a peppery crunch or hot peperoncini peppers for a subtle kick and briny flavor. These additions can offer a delightful textural and flavor contrast without making the salad overly liquid.

By the way, if you’re a salad lover looking for more summer-ready recipes, our cannellini bean salad and broccoli salad with bacon and raisins are also fantastic choices that offer different flavor profiles for your seasonal rotation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Burrata Caprese

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Burrata Caprese salad:

What is the best way to serve burrata cheese?

Burrata is always, always best served fresh and at room temperature. If possible, take it out of the fridge 15 to 30 minutes before assembling the salad. This allows the creamy stracciatella center to soften and become more luscious, enhancing its flavor and texture. Serving it too cold can diminish its unique creaminess.

What’s the stuff inside of burrata?

The exquisite creamy liquid and shredded cheese inside burrata is called stracciatella. This is actually a delicious combination of cream and delicate, “stretched” mozzarella curds—often leftovers from the traditional mozzarella-making process. It’s what gives burrata its signature rich, buttery, and utterly decadent texture.

Can I make this Burrata Caprese salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can certainly prepare parts of your Burrata Caprese salad in advance. To make it ahead: slice your tomatoes and arrange them on the platter, and have your basil leaves ready. However, do not add the burrata, olive oil, balsamic glaze, or basil vinaigrette just yet. Cover the platter tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the components to an airtight container and refrigerate. Just before serving, place the burrata, gently spread it, then drizzle with the dressing and seasonings. The fresh cheese becomes runny at warm temperatures, so it’s important to keep it chilled until shortly before serving for optimal texture. Any leftovers are best enjoyed within two days, though the salad is truly best fresh.

What is the difference between fresh burrata cheese and mozzarella?

While burrata is technically a type of fresh mozzarella cheese, the key difference lies in its luxurious center. Traditional mozzarella is a solid, elastic fresh cheese. Burrata, on the other hand, features a thin outer shell of mozzarella that encases a soft, creamy, and buttery interior of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds mixed with cream). This gives burrata a significantly richer flavor and a much more indulgent, oozing texture compared to the firmer mozzarella.

What’s the best type of olive oil for this recipe?

For a dish with such simple and fresh ingredients, the quality of your olive oil is paramount. Always use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Look for one that is cold-pressed, preferably from a single source, and has a vibrant, fresh flavor profile—perhaps slightly grassy, fruity, or with a peppery finish. A good EVOO will enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them, providing a smooth and luxurious finish to your Caprese.

Consider Making These Other Delightful Summer Recipes:

• Quick and Easy Hamburger Buns
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets
• Perfect Smoked Chicken Thighs
• How to Cook a Delicious Shell Steak

If you tried this burrata caprese recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

Burrata Caprese Recipe

By Renae Gerhardstein

This burrata Caprese elevates the classic Caprese salad with creamy burrata, fresh basil, and olive oil. A must-try Italian salad!

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Calories: 142 kcal

Equipment

• Platter
• Large spoon
• Plastic wrap

Ingredients

• 6 medium tomatoes, cut into slices about 1/2-inch thick. (Heirloom, Roma, or Plum work best)
• 8 ounces burrata cheese (typically two 4-ounce balls)
• 12 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin, high-quality)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (also known as balsamic vinegar reduction)
• ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt or kosher salt, or more/less to your taste preference
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper or more/less to your taste preference
• 3 tablespoons pesto vinaigrette (optional, to drizzle over top of salad for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Arrange tomato slices on a platter by fanning them out in layers, leaving some space in the center of the platter.
2. Add burrata balls to the empty spot, then using the back of a large spoon, lightly press down to spread them slightly, allowing the creamy interior to spill out.
3. Arrange basil leaves evenly over the tomato slices and around the burrata.
4. If serving the salad right away, drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad, then season with salt and pepper. Optionally, for an additional pop of flavor and color, also drizzle a bit of pesto vinaigrette over the top.
5. If making the salad ahead, do not add the burrata, olive oil, balsamic glaze, or vinaigrette; wait until just before serving. Instead, cover the platter tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• Use the freshest ingredients possible – Since this dish is simple, high-quality tomatoes, burrata, and extra virgin olive oil make all the difference.
• To finish your meal off, our plump and sweet strawberry blueberry salad would make a great dessert!

Recipe Variations:

• Roasted tomato burrata caprese: Instead of fresh tomatoes, use slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, or grape tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
• Pesto caprese: Spoon dollops of fresh pesto onto the burrata for an intensely aromatic flavor.
• Citrus caprese: Add slices of blood orange or grapefruit for a zesty twist.
• Grilled caprese: Lightly grill the tomatoes for a smoky flavor before assembling the salad.

Storing Instructions:

• If you’d like to make your burrata Caprese salad ahead of time, arrange the tomatoes and basil but don’t add the burrata, olive oil, balsamic glaze, or basil vinaigrette just yet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until just before serving, then add the final drizzle and cheese.
• The fresh cheese becomes runny at warm temperatures, so it’s important to keep it chilled until shortly before serving. Any leftovers are best enjoyed within two days.

Nutrition shown is for one serving, without pesto vinaigrette dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 103mg | Potassium: 295mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1332IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 215mg | Iron: 0.4mg