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
Scale
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.
