The Burrata Salad with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is a stunning and indulgent salad that balances creamy, luscious burrata cheese with the sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted cherry tomatoes. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic reduction, and fresh herbs, this salad is both visually striking and bursting with flavor.

This salad elevates any meal, whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch, and is perfect for dinner parties, summer gatherings, or cozy family dinners. Each bite delivers a harmony of creamy, tangy, sweet, and herbaceous notes, making it a truly unforgettable dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s elegant yet simple. The creamy burrata melts beautifully alongside the roasted tomatoes, while the balsamic glaze adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese. Fresh basil and a touch of olive oil make every bite refreshing and aromatic.

It’s a salad that feels luxurious without being complicated — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Creamy and Decadent: Burrata provides a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sweet and Flavorful: Roasted cherry tomatoes enhance natural sweetness.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Elegant and Visual: A beautiful dish for entertaining or special occasions.
• Versatile: Works as an appetizer, salad, or light main course.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Salad / Appetizer / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Roasted Cherry Tomatoes:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs (optional)

For the Salad:

• 8 oz burrata cheese (1–2 whole balls)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction or glaze
• Optional: toasted pine nuts for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

1. Arrange fresh basil leaves on a serving platter or in individual bowls.
2. Place the burrata cheese in the center of the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Spoon roasted cherry tomatoes around and over the burrata.
2. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction over the top.
3. Optionally, sprinkle toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve immediately while burrata is at room temperature and tomatoes are warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Summary

1. Preheat oven and roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil and seasoning.
2. Arrange basil leaves on a platter.
3. Place burrata in the center.
4. Top with roasted tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze.
6. Optional: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve as a starter or appetizer with crusty bread or crostini.
• Pair as a side salad with grilled meats, pasta, or seafood.
• Present on a platter for entertaining — the vibrant colors make it visually stunning.
• Garnish with extra basil leaves or microgreens for elegance.

Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature burrata for optimal creaminess.
• Roast tomatoes until slightly caramelized for maximum flavor.
• Handle burrata gently to maintain its creamy interior.
• Use high-quality olive oil and balsamic glaze for the best taste.
• Serve immediately — burrata and roasted tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh.

Variations

1. Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes:
   Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange cherry tomatoes for visual appeal.
2. Caprese-Style:
   Add sliced fresh tomatoes along with roasted ones for a layered texture.
3. Avocado Addition:
   Include sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
4. Spicy Twist:
   Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on roasted tomatoes for subtle heat.
5. Nutty Crunch:
   Use toasted walnuts or almonds instead of pine nuts.
6. Fruit Variation:
   Add roasted or fresh peaches for a sweet-salty contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store burrata and roasted tomatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 1 day. Assemble just before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended — burrata and fresh basil do not freeze well.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet for roasting tomatoes
• Small saucepan (if making balsamic reduction)
• Serving platter or bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, roast tomatoes ahead, but assemble with burrata just before serving.

Q2: Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?
Yes, but burrata offers a creamier and more indulgent texture.

Q3: Can I make my own balsamic reduction?
Yes, simmer ¼ cup balsamic vinegar until thickened to a syrupy consistency.

Q4: Can this salad be vegan?
Replace burrata with plant-based cheese for a vegan-friendly option.

Q5: Can I serve this salad chilled?
It’s best served at room temperature, with warm roasted tomatoes for contrast.

Conclusion

The Burrata Salad with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is a luxurious, fresh, and flavorful salad that’s simple to prepare yet impressive on the table. Creamy burrata, sweet roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Ideal for entertaining, summer dinners, or special occasions, this salad is both beautiful and delicious, showcasing the elegance of Italian cuisine in every bite.