I’m obsessed with summer-ripe tomatoes and fresh basil dishes. I look forward to this time of year all year long when I can get big, gorgeous heirloom tomatoes from the farmers market or pick all the cherry tomatoes from the garden. And I will most definitely be making this burrata caprese app all summer on repeat. It’s the perfect dish for noshing on while lounging around the pool or watching the kids play lawn games. It’s like a traditional caprese salad gets a creamy upgrade with the addition of burrata cheese, bringing together the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the creamy texture of burrata. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or crusty bread, but also shines on its own. If you can’t get enough of delicious Caprese salad, check out my recipes for Grilled Caprese Panini, Heirloom Tomato Salad with Burrata, Caprese Salad, Tomato Bruschetta Recipe, and Four Cheese Pizza with Tomato Basil Arugula Salad!
Why We Love This Recipe
The simple ingredients used in this recipe let the natural flavors shine, creating a stunning, delicious salad. The creamy burrata cheese adds a rich texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy, tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil leaves. This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for quick meals or last-minute entertaining.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Baguette – Provides a crunchy base to complement the creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes. You can substitute with any crusty bread. Olive Oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It adds a rich, fruity note to the salad. Cherry Tomatoes – These add a burst of sweetness and color. Feel free to use grape tomatoes if preferred. Medium-sized Tomatoes – Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are best for their flavor and juiciness. Fresh Basil Leaves – Essential for the classic Caprese flavor. Ensure they are fresh for the best aroma and taste. Burrata Cheese – The star of the dish, adding a creamy texture. You can find this in the deli department of most grocery stores. Balsamic Reduction – Adds a sweet and tangy finish. You can make your own by reducing regular balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Sea Salt or Coarse Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a slight kick and balances the flavors.
How to Make Burrata Caprese Salad
Tips for Success
For the best flavor, use the freshest ingredients you can find. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and burrata cheese are key to a delicious Caprese salad. Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Let the salad come to room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the burrata to soften perfectly.
Substitutions and Variations
Use any variety of tomatoes, such as Roma, campari, cherry, grape, or even Sun Golds for a burst of sweetness. Substitute burrata cheese with fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable. You can also try fresh ricotta cheese for a different texture. Use a sweet balsamic glaze for added sweetness, or make your own reduction for a homemade touch. Any crusty bread works well. Try ciabatta or a rustic country loaf for a different flavor profile.
More Perfect Summer Salad Recipes
Creamy German Cucumber Salad Seafood Pasta Salad Frito Corn Salad CPK Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad BBQ Chicken Cobb Salad Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Zucchini Salad Watermelon Basil Feta Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, shrimp, or fish. The fresh flavors complement the smoky notes from the grill. Serve it as a side dish alongside pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, or as part of a larger salad spread. It adds a touch of elegance and freshness to any meal.
