Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe

There’s something really comforting about putting together a Tomato Burrata Salad on a slow day. I remember once slicing into a ripe tomato while the kitchen was still quiet, the kind of quiet where you can hear the soft scrape of the knife against the cutting board.

The burrata was chilled just enough, and when I placed it beside the tomatoes, it felt like assembling something small but special.

A few basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, a touch of balsamic, nothing complicated, just fresh ingredients coming together in the simplest, nicest way. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you how good food can be when you don’t overthink it.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

• A Nostalgic Texture: Juicy tomato slices, creamy burrata centers, and soft basil leaves create a harmony that feels grounding and familiar.
• A Celebration of Freshness: Every bite captures the brightness of ripe tomatoes and the cool richness of burrata.
• A Simple Assembly: No long steps, no heat, just gentle layering and quiet attention.
• A Dish That Feels Like Summer: Even on cooler days, the flavors carry the warmth of sunshine.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet tomatoes, silky cheese, bright basil, and a hint of tangy glaze come together beautifully.

What Brings This Fresh Salad Together

Ingredients:

• Ripe Tomatoes (3 large, sliced): The juicy, flavorful base that sets the tone for the whole dish.
• Burrata (1 ball, 8 oz): Soft, creamy, and rich, like the heart of the salad.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (small handful): Adds brightness and a gentle herbal lift.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tbsp): A smooth, golden drizzle that ties everything together.
• Balsamic Glaze (1 tsp): Adds a tangy sweetness that complements the tomatoes.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors.
• Black Pepper (to taste): Adds warmth and a subtle bite.
• Optional Add-Ins: Cherry tomatoes, pesto, or olives for extra depth.

Equipment:

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Serving plate or shallow bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Paper towels

Simple Substitutions That Work Well

• Heirloom Tomatoes Instead of Regular: Adds color and deeper flavor.
• Mozzarella in Place of Burrata: Less creamy, but still tender and fresh.
• Arugula: Adds peppery freshness beneath the tomatoes.
• Balsamic Vinegar Instead of Glaze: A lighter, sharper option.
• Lemon Olive Oil: A bright, citrusy twist.
• Fresh Oregano: For a more earthy aroma.
• Chili Flakes: For a hint of heat.

Ways to Serve This Salad

• As a Light Lunch: Paired with crusty bread.
• Before Dinner: A fresh, elegant starter.
• Alongside Pasta: Especially olive oil, based dishes.
• With Warm Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the burrata.
• With Grilled Chicken: Adds protein without overpowering the flavors.
• With Sparkling Water or White Wine: Simple, refreshing pairing.
• Beside Roasted Vegetables: A lovely mix of warm and cool.
• As Part of a Brunch Board: Add fruit, breads, and spreads.
• With a Side of Pesto Toast: Deepens the basil flavor.
• On a Picnic: Travels beautifully if assembled on, site.

Helpful Notes Before You Start

• Tomato Quality: Choose the ripest, most fragrant ones you can find.
• Serving Time: This salad is best eaten immediately.
• Burrata Freshness: The fresher it is, the softer and creamier the center.
• Heat Sensitivity: Burrata melts quickly in warm rooms.
• Balance of Toppings: Optional add-ins should support, not dominate.

Practical Tips to Keep in Mind

• Choose the Ripest Tomatoes: Their flavor carries the dish.
• Serve at Room Temperature: Burrata and tomatoes taste best this way.
• Use Very Fresh Basil: It wilts quickly, so add it last.
• Don’t Over-salt: Burrata is delicate and can be overshadowed.
• Slice Tomatoes Thick: It gives the salad a satisfying bite.
• Use a Serrated Knife: Makes cleaner cuts through tomatoes.
• Let Burrata Dry Slightly: Pat gently for better plating.

There’s something soothing about dishes like this, ones that rely on simplicity, freshness, and the small pleasure of assembling flavors that naturally belong together. A Tomato Burrata Salad doesn’t ask for much: just a few good ingredients and a moment of attention.

But in return, it gives you a plate that feels bright, calm, and complete. I hope it brings a bit of that same stillness to your own kitchen, the kind that makes even an ordinary day feel gently meaningful.