Peach Burrata Salad

Peach Burrata Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a light dinner. The combination of fresh peaches and creamy burrata cheese creates a unique taste experience, while the addition of berries and roasted pistachios offers a satisfying crunch. This salad is not only visually stunning but also versatile enough to be enjoyed on various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Ingredients: Enjoy the sweet taste of ripe peaches paired with juicy berries, making this salad a refreshing choice.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side dish for barbecues or as a light meal on its own, this salad suits any gathering.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, Peach Burrata Salad is both flavorful and good for you.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad an eye-catching centerpiece on your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start preparing your Peach Burrata Salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large platter
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large platter: This allows you to create an appealing presentation of your salad, showcasing the vibrant colors.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your fruits and vegetables, enhancing their appearance.
• Cutting board: Protects your kitchen surfaces while providing a stable area for cutting ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 2 cups baby salad greens
• 2 fresh peaches (pit removed and thinly sliced)
• ⅛ cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Berries

• 4 cups cherries (blackberries and strawberries)

For Adding Crunch

• ¼ cup roasted (salted pistachios)

For Freshness

• ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves

For the Cheese

• 8 oz. ball burrata cheese

Seasoning & Dressing

• Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Extra virgin olive oil or Meyer lemon infused olive oil
• Balsamic glaze

How to Make Peach Burrata Salad

Step 1: Create the Salad Base

Make a bed of salad greens on a large platter.

Step 2: Add Fresh Peaches

Thinly slice the fresh peaches. Group several slices together and fan them out slightly, arranging them in different sections over the salad greens.

Step 3: Incorporate Berries

Pit the cherries and slice them in half. Place small piles of cherries and blackberries around the platter. Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice them in half. Scatter the strawberries over the platter, grouping them to make a beautiful arrangement.

Step 4: Finish with Onions and Basil

Sprinkle the red onions and basil leaves over the entire platter.

Step 5: Add Burrata Cheese

Drain the liquid from the burrata cheese and place the ball in the center of the peach and berry arrangement.

Step 6: Season Your Salad

Sprinkle the entire salad with sea salt and black pepper. Squeeze ½ of a lemon (or more to taste) over the salad.

Step 7: Drizzle with Dressing

Drizzle the Peach Burrata Salad with lemon olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Step 8: Serve

To serve, gently tear open the ball of burrata. Scoop the peaches and other fruit onto a salad plate and pile with a scoop of creamy burrata cheese.

How to Serve Peach Burrata Salad

Serving Peach Burrata Salad can elevate any meal, making it perfect for gatherings or a light dinner. This colorful dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Here are some delightful ways to serve this refreshing salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy a generous portion of the salad on its own for a satisfying yet light lunch option. Pair it with whole-grain bread for added texture.

Accompanied by Grilled Chicken

• Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken strips marinated in lemon and herbs. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include Peach Burrata Salad as part of a larger charcuterie board. It pairs well with various cheeses, fruits, and nuts, creating an inviting spread.

With Crackers or Breadsticks

• Offer crisp crackers or breadsticks on the side. They add a crunchy element that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy burrata.

As an Appetizer

• Present smaller portions of the salad in individual bowls as an appetizer. Guests will appreciate this elegant touch before the main course.

How to Perfect Peach Burrata Salad

To achieve the best Peach Burrata Salad, consider these simple tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Choose Ripe Peaches – Select peaches that yield slightly to pressure for optimal sweetness and juiciness.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh basil enhances the salad’s aroma and adds vibrant flavor; avoid dried herbs for this dish.
• Balance Flavors – Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice or balsamic glaze according to your taste preferences.
• Prep Ahead – You can slice fruits and prepare ingredients in advance, but assemble just before serving for freshness.
• Add Texture – Incorporate additional nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Burrata Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Peach Burrata Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are perfect when grilled to add smoky flavor.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish cooked with herbs offers a nutritious base that complements the salad’s freshness.
3. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a comforting side that balances the bright flavors of the salad.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness and heartiness to your meal.
5. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese brings Mediterranean charm to your table.
6. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed chickpea salad with cucumbers and tomatoes makes an excellent pair for added texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a Peach Burrata Salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and presentation.

• Boldly choose fresh ingredients – Using overripe or stale fruits can ruin the salad. Always opt for fresh peaches and ripe berries for optimal flavor.
• Avoid excessive dressing – Too much balsamic glaze or olive oil can overpower the delicate flavors of the salad. Start with a little and add more if needed.
• Don’t skip the seasoning – Neglecting sea salt and black pepper can leave your salad bland. A sprinkle enhances the flavors of both the fruit and burrata cheese.
• Keep burrata cold until serving – Letting burrata sit out too long can cause it to lose its creamy texture. Only add it right before serving for the best experience.
• Incorrect layering – If you mix all ingredients together, you may miss out on visual appeal. Layering creates an attractive presentation that showcases each component.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Peach Burrata Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of fresh fruits and burrata cheese.

Reheating Peach Burrata Salad

• Oven – Not recommended; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave – Avoid reheating as it will change the texture of the ingredients.
• Stovetop – Not applicable; serve fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Look for peaches that yield slightly to pressure and have a pleasant aroma. They should be free from blemishes or bruises.

Can I use other fruits in my Peach Burrata Salad?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with fruits like nectarines, plums, or even seasonal berries to customize your salad.

What if I can’t find burrata cheese?

You can substitute with fresh mozzarella if necessary, though burrata’s creaminess adds unique flavor and texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep individual components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Omit the burrata cheese entirely or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative for a vegan version of Peach Burrata Salad.

Final Thoughts

The Peach Burrata Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it ideal for summer gatherings or as a light meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or herbs, ensuring every bite captures your personal touch. Give this delightful recipe a try!