There is something truly magical about combining fresh, juicy watermelon with vibrant tomatoes and creamy burrata, all drizzled with fragrant basil and a touch of balsamic. This Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe hits every note for those warm days when you want a dish that feels light yet indulgent, packed with colors and textures that make your palate dance. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer’s best gifts in one bowl, and I can’t wait to share why this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen not only for its individual flavor but also for the way it complements and balances the others, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy notes.
- 4 cups cubed or balled seedless watermelon: provides a juicy, refreshing sweetness that’s the star of the show.
- 2 cups halved or sliced ripe cherry tomatoes (or heirloom slices): adds a burst of acidity and vibrant color.
- 2 large balls of burrata cheese: offers a luscious, creamy texture that elevates the salad instantly.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn: brings a fragrant herbal brightness that ties the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin recommended): adds richness and helps marry the ingredients.
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar or glaze: delivers a sweet and tangy depth.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: balances and enhances the natural flavors.
- Optional: a few sprigs of fresh mint: introduces a cooling herbal twist for extra freshness.
How to Make Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Start by cubing or baling the seedless watermelon to bite-sized pieces and halving or slicing the cherry tomatoes. The freshness and ripeness of both are essential because they will carry most of the salad’s flavor and texture. Arrange these vibrant fruits on a large serving platter or shallow bowl as your base.
Step 2: Add the Burrata
Tear the burrata balls into halves or quarters and gently nestle them among the watermelon and tomatoes. Burrata’s creamy interior offers a wonderful contrast to the crisp fruit, and placing it carefully keeps its rich texture intact.
Step 3: Toss on Fresh Herbs
Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them generously over the salad. If you’re using mint, add a few sprigs as well to brighten the flavor profile with an aromatic lift. Herbs aren’t just garnish here; they truly transform the dish into a fragrant summer delight.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad, followed by 1 to 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar or glaze for that perfect balance of sweet tang. Be generous but mindful, as the dressing ties all the elements together beautifully.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can serve the salad immediately for the freshest impact or allow it to chill in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to let the flavors mingle lightly. Either way, it’s a dish that always delights.
How to Serve Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or thinly sliced red onions. These add a nice texture and mild bite that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy burrata and juicy fruit.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, like shrimp or scallops, or alongside a simple crusty baguette. The lightness of the salad also works well with smoky grilled chicken, making it a versatile summer meal component.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe in hollowed-out watermelon halves for a festive look or individual mason jars for an elegant picnic presentation. Adding edible flowers as a final touch can make this already stunning salad almost too pretty to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Because burrata is delicate and watermelon juices can make the salad watery over time, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Watermelon and tomatoes will lose their crisp texture upon freezing, and burrata will separate when thawed, so freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this salad, as it’s designed to be served chilled or at room temperature to showcase its fresh and vibrant qualities.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata?
While burrata is ideal for its creamy texture, fresh mozzarella or ricotta salata can be substituted if needed. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will vary slightly.
What type of watermelon works best?
Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon that is sweet and firm. Avoid very watery or underripe melons to preserve the salad’s fresh texture and flavor balance.
Is balsamic glaze different from balsamic vinegar?
Yes, balsamic glaze is a thicker, sweeter reduction of balsamic vinegar, often used as a drizzle. If using liquid vinegar, start with less and adjust to taste, as it’s more pungent.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace burrata with a plant-based creamy cheese or tofu, and consider a vegan-friendly dressing alternative. The fruit and herbs will still shine beautifully.
How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?
Use ripe but firm watermelon and serve the salad shortly after assembling to prevent excess juice from pooling at the bottom. Draining the watermelon briefly can also help reduce wateriness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly captures the essence of summer, the Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe is your new go-to. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy yet comes together in minutes, celebrating fresh ingredients in the most delightful way. I promise this salad will brighten your table and refresh your spirits on even the hottest day. Give it a try and enjoy every juicy, creamy bite!
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Watermelon Tomato Burrata Salad – Easy, Refreshing Summer Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make summer salad featuring sweet watermelon, ripe cherry tomatoes, and creamy burrata cheese, enhanced with fresh basil and a tangy balsamic drizzle. Perfect for hot days or as a light appetizer.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed or balled seedless watermelon
- 2 cups halved or sliced ripe cherry tomatoes (or heirloom slices)
- 2 large balls of burrata cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Optional: a few sprigs of fresh mint
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 1–2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar or glaze
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Cube or ball the seedless watermelon and halve or slice the cherry tomatoes. Arrange them evenly on a serving platter or in a shallow bowl to form the base of the salad.
- Add Burrata Cheese: Tear the burrata cheese into halves or quarters and nestle these pieces gently among the watermelon and tomatoes, allowing the creamy texture to contrast with the fruit.
- Garnish with Herbs: Scatter the torn fresh basil leaves over the salad. If using, add a few sprigs of fresh mint to enhance the freshness and aroma.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze evenly over the salad. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, balancing the sweet and savory flavors.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor, or chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving to enhance cooling and melding of flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe, juicy watermelon and sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor contrast.
- Fresh burrata provides a creamy, mild richness that pairs well with the bright ingredients—avoid using harder cheeses.
- Adjust balsamic vinegar quantity to your preferred acidity or sweetness; balsamic glaze can add a sweeter, thicker finish.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored chilled for up to 1 day without losing quality.
