Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Summer on a plate, the Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is simple to throw together but bursts with fresh and flavorful ingredients. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or casual dining, this salad combines ripe tomatoes, juicy peaches, and creamy burrata cheese. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also visually stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this salad in just 25 minutes.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of tomatoes, peaches, and cherries delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for summer.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, it pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it appealing on any table setting, sure to impress your guests.
• Health-Conscious Option: Low in calories yet high in flavor and nutrients, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Below are the essential tools needed for making the Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Glass jar
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Glass jar: Perfect for mixing the vinaigrette; it allows you to shake ingredients evenly without mess.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for tossing ingredients together while ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing fruits and vegetables effortless and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and prepping ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Summer on a plate…simple to throw together, but so fresh and flavorful!

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic or chicken champagne vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Salad

• 1 1/2 -2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved if large
• 2-3 peaches, sliced into wedges
• 1 cup pitted fresh cherries
• 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (or other nut/seed)

How to Make Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

To prepare the vinaigrette:
1. Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a glass jar.
2. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust chili flakes, salt, and pepper as desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

For assembling the salad:
1. In a large bowl, toss together cherry tomatoes, peaches, and cherries with 1/3 of the dressing.
2. Let sit for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Assemble

To finish your salad:
1. Break apart the balls of burrata around the salad mixture.
2. Drizzle with remaining vinaigrette.
3. Top with pumpkin seeds and additional fresh herbs if desired.
4. Serve alongside grilled or toasted bread for added texture.

With these steps complete, you’ll have a delightful Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad that’s ready to impress! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

This Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a family dinner, here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions in individual bowls for a beautiful starter.
• Pair with crostini or toasted bread for added crunch.

With Grilled Proteins

• Enjoy alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal.
• Lamb skewers also complement the salad’s flavors wonderfully.

On a Buffet Table

• Place the salad on a buffet with other fresh salads and sides.
• Add labels to ingredients for guests who may have preferences.

For Picnics

• Pack the salad in portable containers for outdoor dining.
• Pair it with wraps or sandwiches for a complete picnic spread.

How to Perfect Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Creating the perfect Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad involves a few key steps. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe tomatoes and juicy peaches for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the vinaigrette with more honey or vinegar based on your taste buds.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit enhances its flavors. Aim for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Presentation Matters: Arrange the ingredients artfully on a platter for visual appeal.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs according to what you have at home.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad will create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini and bell peppers add smoky flavor.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish infused with lemon complements the salad beautifully.
3. Caprese Skewers: Mini skewers of mozzarella and basil add an Italian twist.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and cherry tomatoes works well together.
5. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy chickpeas seasoned with spices provide a protein punch.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread drizzled with garlic oil is always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure a delicious dish.

• Skipping the Vinaigrette: Many people forget to make the vinaigrette or use store-bought versions. A homemade vinaigrette adds fresh flavors that elevate the salad. Take a few minutes to mix your own with quality ingredients.
• Overcrowding the Ingredients: Adding too many ingredients can overwhelm the salad. Stick to the main components like tomatoes, peaches, and cherries for a balanced taste. Less is often more!
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly but are often overlooked. Use a variety of herbs as suggested in the recipe for depth and freshness.
• Serving Immediately: Allowing the salad to rest helps flavors meld together. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes after tossing with dressing for maximum flavor.
• Not Using Room Temperature Burrata: Serving burrata straight from the fridge can dull its creamy texture. Always allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate if possible, as it may make the salad soggy over time.

Freezing Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• The texture of tomatoes and peaches changes when frozen, compromising quality.

Reheating Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave as it will alter the texture of fresh ingredients.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; serve cold for optimal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad.

Can I use different fruits in my Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or plums that will complement the flavors well.

How do I choose ripe peaches for my Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad?

Look for peaches that yield slightly to pressure and have a sweet aroma. Avoid any with bruises or blemishes.

What can I substitute for burrata in this salad?

You can use fresh mozzarella or feta cheese as alternatives if burrata isn’t available. They will still provide great flavor and creaminess.

Is Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Just store components separately until you’re ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

The Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings or simple dinners at home. Its balance of sweet fruits and creamy cheese makes it versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Give it a try at your next meal!