Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto is a delightful, fresh, and easy-to-make dish. It showcases the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and aromatic basil pesto.
This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated salad that highlights the best of seasonal ingredients.
Table of Contents
| Prep time | Assembly time | Total time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 5 minutes | 15 minutes | 4 |
What Is Burrata?
Burrata is a type of Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a soft, outer shell of mozzarella and a creamy, buttery center. This delightful combination creates a unique texture and flavor experience.
Origins Of Burrata
Burrata originated in the Apulia region of Italy. Farmers created it as a way to use up leftover mozzarella curds. The name “burrata” comes from the Italian word “burro,” which means butter, reflecting its rich, creamy center.
Why Is Burrata Special?
- Texture: The contrast between the firm outer shell and creamy center is unique.
- Flavor: Burrata has a mild, milky taste that pairs well with various ingredients.
- Versatility: Use it in salads, pasta, or simply spread on bread.
Ingredients Tomato Burrata Salad With Fresh Pesto
Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto is a delightful dish perfect for summer. This salad combines juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and a vibrant homemade pesto. Below, you’ll find the detailed ingredients needed to create this refreshing salad.
For The Salad
Creating the Tomato Burrata Salad requires fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- Heirloom Tomatoes: 3-4 large, sliced into thick rounds. Choose a mix of colors for a beautiful presentation.
- Burrata Cheese: 2 balls. This creamy cheese is the star of the dish.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful, for garnish.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Salt: To taste.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.
For The Fresh Pesto
Fresh pesto adds a burst of flavor to the salad. Here’s what you need for the pesto:
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 2 cups, packed.
- Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup, toasted.
- Garlic Cloves: 2, peeled.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated.
- Olive Oil: 1/2 cup. Use extra virgin for the best taste.
- Salt: To taste.
- Black Pepper: To taste.
Step 1: Prepare The Fresh Pesto
Step 1 in this recipe is to prepare the fresh pesto. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire dish.
Gather Ingredients
To make fresh pesto, you need to gather a few simple ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure your pesto is perfect. Here’s what you need:
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 2 cups, packed
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Pine Nuts: 1/3 cup
- Garlic Cloves: 2, peeled
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Ensure the basil leaves are fresh and vibrant. You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts if needed. Grate the Parmesan cheese finely to blend well. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Measure all ingredients accurately to maintain the balance of flavors.
Blend The Ingredients
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to blend them. Follow these steps:
- Place the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic cloves in a food processor.
- Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.
- Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Adding the olive oil gradually helps emulsify the pesto, creating a creamy texture. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to ensure all ingredients are evenly blended. The result should be a vibrant green pesto with a smooth consistency.
Adjust Seasoning
After blending, it’s important to adjust the seasoning to taste. Here’s how:
- Taste the pesto and add salt if needed.
- Add a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
- If the pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil to reach the desired consistency.
- If you prefer a tangy twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Mix the pesto well after adjusting the seasoning. Tasting and adjusting ensures your pesto is perfectly balanced. This step makes a significant difference in the final taste of your Tomato Burrata Salad. Once satisfied with the flavor, your fresh pesto is ready to use.
Now that your pesto is prepared, you’re one step closer to enjoying a delicious Tomato Burrata Salad. The fresh, vibrant pesto will elevate the flavors and make your salad stand out.
Step 2: Assemble The Tomato Burrata Salad
Step 2 is all about assembling the salad. This step brings together fresh tomatoes, creamy burrata, and vibrant pesto, making it the star of your meal. Let’s dive into the details!
Slice The Tomatoes
Start by selecting the freshest tomatoes you can find. They should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
For a beautiful presentation, consider using different types of tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes add color and variety. Cherry tomatoes can be halved for an added touch.
Arrange the tomato slices neatly on a plate. Ensure each slice is visible and not overlapping too much. This will make the salad look appealing and ensure every bite has a bit of each ingredient.
Arrange The Salad
Next, arrange the salad. Start with a clean, large serving platter. Spread the tomato slices evenly across the platter. Leave some space between the slices to add burrata and other ingredients.
Place the burrata in the center of the platter. If you have multiple burrata balls, spread them evenly across the platter. Tear the burrata into smaller pieces if desired. This makes it easier for everyone to get a bit in each bite.
Add fresh basil leaves on top of the tomatoes and burrata. Tear the basil leaves for a rustic look or leave them whole for a cleaner presentation. Scatter them evenly to ensure every bite has a burst of fresh flavor.
For an added touch, sprinkle some sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top. This enhances the flavors and adds a bit of texture.
Drizzle The Pesto
The final step is drizzling the fresh pesto. Homemade pesto adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that ties everything together. Use a spoon to drizzle the pesto over the salad. Ensure an even distribution so every bite has a bit of pesto.
Here’s how to drizzle the pesto:
- Stir the pesto to ensure it’s well-mixed.
- Spoon a small amount onto the salad, moving the spoon back and forth.
- Drizzle it lightly over the tomatoes and burrata.
- Add more pesto if you like a stronger flavor.
For an extra touch, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the top. This adds richness and enhances the flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This adds a savory note that pairs well with the pesto and tomatoes.
Your Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto is now ready to serve. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish as a starter or a light main course. Bon appétit!
Step 3: Final Touches
Now that you’ve prepped all the ingredients, it’s time for the final touches to your Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto. This step is crucial as it brings all the flavors together, making the dish truly delightful. Let’s dive into the final steps to elevate your salad.
Add Seasoning
The right seasoning can make or break your salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the tomatoes and burrata. This enhances their natural flavors.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight kick. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Olive Oil: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad. It adds a rich, fruity flavor that pairs well with tomatoes and burrata.
- Balsamic Glaze: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and a tangy finish. This balances the creamy burrata and fresh pesto.
Remember, the key is to season lightly at first. You can always add more later, but you can’t take it away. Taste as you go to ensure a perfectly balanced salad.
Serve
Presentation matters as much as flavor. Follow these steps to serve your Tomato Burrata Salad beautifully:
- Plate the Salad: Use a large, flat plate. Arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern around the edges.
- Place the Burrata: Gently place the burrata ball in the center. This makes it the focal point of your dish.
- Add the Pesto: Spoon the fresh pesto over the tomatoes and burrata. Be generous but avoid covering everything completely.
- Garnish: Finish with fresh basil leaves. Tear them by hand for a rustic look. Add a few more drops of olive oil and balsamic glaze for a final touch.
For a professional touch, use a clean cloth to wipe any spills on the plate. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its freshest. Your guests will be impressed by both the look and the taste of this simple yet elegant dish.
Tips And Variations
Creating a delicious Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto is an easy and rewarding experience. This vibrant dish captures the essence of summer in every bite. To make your salad even more exciting, explore various tips and variations to suit your taste and preferences.
Alternative Ingredients
Enhance your Tomato Burrata Salad with a range of alternative ingredients. These swaps can add new flavors and textures to your salad.
- Tomatoes: Use heirloom tomatoes for a unique flavor, or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste.
- Burrata: Swap Burrata with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese for a different creamy texture.
- Pesto: Use store-bought pesto to save time, or experiment with arugula or spinach pesto for a peppery twist.
- Greens: Add arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens for extra freshness and nutrition.
- Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts for added crunch.
- Fruits: Incorporate sliced peaches or strawberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Herbs: Fresh basil is classic, but try mint or cilantro for a different aroma.
Here is a quick reference table for alternative ingredients:
| Original Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Heirloom or Cherry Tomatoes |
| Burrata | Fresh Mozzarella or Goat Cheese |
| Pesto | Arugula or Spinach Pesto |
| Greens | Arugula or Baby Spinach |
| Nuts | Toasted Pine Nuts, Almonds, Walnuts |
| Fruits | Peaches or Strawberries |
| Herbs | Mint or Cilantro |
Storing The Salad
Proper storage ensures your Tomato Burrata Salad stays fresh and flavorful. Follow these steps to keep your salad in top shape.
Refrigerate the salad if not serving immediately. Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. This prevents the ingredients from drying out and keeps the flavors intact.
Separate Ingredients: Store tomatoes and Burrata separately from greens and pesto. This helps maintain texture and prevents sogginess.
Here are some quick tips for storing each component:
- Tomatoes: Keep in a separate container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Burrata: Store in its liquid in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Pesto: Keep in a jar with a thin layer of olive oil on top. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Greens: Store in a salad spinner or a paper towel-lined container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reassemble the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information Tomato Burrata Salad With Fresh Pesto
This salad combines juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, and flavorful pesto, creating an explosion of taste and texture. But it’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a healthy choice. Let’s dive into the nutritional information of this salad to understand its health benefits better.
Approximate Calorie Tomato Burrata Salad With Fresh Pesto
Understanding the calorie content of the Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto helps manage your daily intake. On average, one serving of this salad contains approximately 350 calories. These calories come from a combination of fresh ingredients and flavorful pesto.
- Tomatoes: Low in calories, about 18 calories per medium-sized tomato.
- Burrata Cheese: Adds about 150 calories per 2-ounce serving.
- Pesto: A tablespoon of fresh pesto contains roughly 80 calories.
- Olive Oil: Drizzled olive oil adds around 50 calories per tablespoon.
- Other Ingredients: Basil, garlic, and nuts contribute marginally to the calorie count.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the calorie content in a single serving:
| Ingredient | Calories |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (2 medium-sized) | 36 |
| Burrata Cheese (2 oz) | 150 |
| Pesto (2 tbsp) | 160 |
| Olive Oil (1 tbsp) | 50 |
| Other Ingredients | 10 |
| Total | 406 |
Breakdown Of Macronutrients (protein, Fat, Carbs)
Understanding the macronutrient breakdown helps in maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s a detailed look at the macronutrients in one serving of Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto:
- Protein: The burrata cheese is the primary source of protein in this salad. One serving provides about 10 grams of protein. This helps in muscle repair and growth.
- Fat: The salad contains healthy fats mainly from the burrata and pesto. One serving has around 30 grams of fat, with a significant portion being healthy unsaturated fats from olive oil and nuts.
- Carbohydrates: The tomatoes and pesto contribute to the carbohydrate content. One serving includes approximately 12 grams of carbs. These carbs come mainly from natural sugars in the tomatoes and a small amount from the nuts in the pesto.
Here’s a quick table to summarize the macronutrient content:
| Macronutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Fat | 30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
These macronutrients make the Tomato Burrata Salad with Fresh Pesto a balanced and nutritious choice. It provides protein for muscle repair, fats for energy, and carbs for quick energy boosts.
