Burrata Watermelon Salad: A Refreshing Summer Recipe

Burrata watermelon salad: the very words conjure up images of sun-drenched afternoons, vibrant colors, and the sweet taste of summer. Have you ever experienced that perfect bite, where creamy, cool cheese meets the juicy sweetness of ripe watermelon? It’s a culinary symphony, and I’m thrilled to share my version of this delightful dish with you.

While the exact origins of pairing burrata with watermelon are somewhat hazy, the combination speaks to the Italian tradition of simple, high-quality ingredients allowed to shine. Burrata, a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, boasts a rich, buttery flavor that beautifully complements the refreshing sweetness of watermelon. Think of it as a modern twist on the classic Caprese salad, swapping the traditional mozzarella for something even more decadent.

People adore burrata watermelon salad for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, almost melting burrata contrasts perfectly with the crisp, juicy watermelon. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of tangy sweetness, while fresh basil provides a fragrant, herbaceous note. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for quick lunches, elegant appetizers, or a light and refreshing side dish at your next barbecue. Plus, it’s a visual masterpiece – the vibrant red of the watermelon against the milky white burrata is simply stunning! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet sophisticated salad.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 small seedless watermelon, cubed (about 6 cups)
• 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar, reduced)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for garnish
• Optional: Arugula or baby spinach for serving as a base

Preparing the Watermelon and Herbs

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our watermelon and herbs. This is the foundation of our delicious salad, so let’s make sure everything is fresh and vibrant.

1. Cube the Watermelon: Take your seedless watermelon and cut it into bite-sized cubes. I usually aim for about 1-inch cubes – they’re easy to eat and look great in the salad. Make sure to remove any stray seeds you might find. Nobody wants a crunchy surprise in their creamy, dreamy salad!
2. Chop the Herbs: Now, grab your fresh mint and basil. Give them a good rinse under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. We don’t want any excess moisture diluting our dressing. Roughly chop both the mint and basil. Don’t worry about being too precise; we want a rustic, vibrant look.
3. Optional Arugula Base: If you’re using arugula or baby spinach as a base, give it a quick rinse and spin it dry. This adds a peppery or mild green element that complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the richness of the burrata.

Assembling the Burrata Watermelon Salad

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where the magic happens, and you’ll start to see (and almost taste!) the deliciousness coming together.

1. Arrange the Watermelon: In a large serving bowl or platter, arrange the cubed watermelon. If you’re using arugula or spinach, spread it out as a base first, then arrange the watermelon on top.
2. Add the Burrata: Gently place the burrata cheese on top of the watermelon. You can either keep the burrata whole for a dramatic presentation or tear it into smaller pieces for easier serving. I personally love the look of the whole burrata, but tearing it makes it easier for everyone to get a taste of that creamy center.
3. Sprinkle with Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped mint and basil evenly over the watermelon and burrata. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma that really elevates the salad.

Dressing and Finishing Touches

The dressing is what ties everything together, adding a touch of acidity and richness. And don’t forget those finishing touches – they can really make this salad shine!

1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor. The olive oil adds a richness and helps the other flavors meld together.
2. Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens slightly. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the burrata and the sweetness of the watermelon.
3. Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the pepper – it adds a nice little kick.
4. Garnish (Optional): If you’re using toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, sprinkle them over the salad for added texture and flavor. These add a nice crunch that contrasts with the soft burrata and juicy watermelon.

Serving and Enjoying Your Salad

The best part? Eating it! This salad is best served immediately, so the watermelon stays crisp and the burrata is at its peak creaminess. Here are a few tips for serving and enjoying your creation:

1. Serve Immediately: As mentioned, this salad is best served right away. The longer it sits, the more the watermelon will release its juices, which can make the salad a bit soggy.
2. Serve Chilled: While the burrata is best at room temperature, the watermelon is more refreshing when chilled. You can chill the watermelon before cubing it for an extra refreshing salad.
3. Pairing Suggestions: This salad is a great appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even a simple pasta dish. It’s also a fantastic addition to a summer barbecue.
4. Storage (If Necessary): If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the watermelon will continue to release its juices, so the salad may become a bit watery. It’s best to consume leftovers within a day or two.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your burrata watermelon salad? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Prosciutto: For a salty and savory twist, add thinly sliced prosciutto to the salad. The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the sweet watermelon and creamy burrata.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or even a little bit of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• Add a Citrus Zest: A little bit of lemon or lime zest can add a bright and zesty flavor to the salad.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheese: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, though it won’t have the same creamy center. Feta cheese also works well for a saltier, tangier flavor.
• Grilled Watermelon: For a smoky flavor, grill the watermelon slices before cubing them. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

Why This Recipe Works

This burrata watermelon salad is a winner because it’s all about balance. The sweetness of the watermelon is perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of the burrata, the fresh herbs add a burst of flavor, and the balsamic glaze provides a touch of acidity. It’s a simple salad, but the combination of flavors and textures is truly irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for a quick and refreshing summer meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
• Fat: 20-30g
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g
• Cholesterol: 50-70mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 15-20g
• Protein: 10-15g

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Burrata Watermelon Salad!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a vibrant celebration of summer flavors, a delightful dance between creamy and refreshing, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet watermelon, rich burrata, and a tangy balsamic glaze creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this burrata watermelon salad is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their summer dining experience.

But why is it so special? Beyond the obvious deliciousness, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking and maximum flavor impact. It’s the perfect dish for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a stunning appetizer at your next barbecue. The simplicity of the ingredients allows their individual qualities to shine, creating a harmonious blend that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and adapt it to your own preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* Herb Power: While basil is a classic pairing, try adding mint or even a sprinkle of fresh oregano for a different herbal note.
* Nutty Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a delightful textural contrast.
* Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the balsamic glaze will introduce a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.
* Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
* Grilled Watermelon: For a smoky twist, grill the watermelon slices briefly before adding them to the salad. This intensifies their sweetness and adds a unique char.
* Prosciutto Perfection: Add some crispy prosciutto for a salty and savory element that pairs beautifully with the burrata and watermelon.
* Different Cheese: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or even feta cheese can be used as substitutes, although they will offer a slightly different flavor profile.
* Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to transform this salad into a complete and satisfying meal.

I encourage you to get creative and personalize this recipe to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!

Your Turn to Create!

I’m so excited for you to try this burrata watermelon salad. It’s a recipe that I’ve been making for years, and it never fails to impress. I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do.

Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? What did you think of the flavor combination? Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] so I can see your creations! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Happy cooking, and enjoy the taste of summer! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.