Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad

Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad is a rustic yet refined dish that brings together warm roasted cherry tomatoes, cool and creamy burrata cheese, a splash of good olive oil, dollops of basil pesto, and fresh basil leaves. Served with crusty bread, it’s a show-stopping appetizer or light meal that’s both effortless and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe celebrates the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. The contrast between warm, juicy tomatoes and cool, creamy burrata is irresistible. Add a spoonful of pesto and a chunk of crusty bread to soak up the savory tomato juices, and you’ve got a meal that feels indulgent but takes just minutes to prepare. Perfect for dinner parties, romantic nights in, or solo treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 200g (6 oz) fresh burrata cheese

• 1/4 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

For the roasted tomatoes:

• 500g (1 lb or 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp finely chopped eschalot (or shallot)

• 1/2 tsp kosher or cooking salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 tsp white vinegar

For serving:

• 1/2 tsp salt flakes (or less kosher salt)

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• A few fresh basil leaves

• Warm crusty bread

Directions

1. Prepare the burrata: Take the burrata out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving. Keep it in its tub of water while it comes to room temperature.

2. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F (180°C fan).

3. Roast the tomatoes: Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, chopped eschalot, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking tray. Roast for 10 minutes until softened but not collapsed.

4. Add vinegar: Gently push the tomatoes to one end of the tray and drizzle vinegar over them. Do not stir.

5. Assemble the salad: Transfer the roasted tomatoes to a serving plate in a single layer. Carefully drain and place the burrata on top.

6. Finish the dish: Drizzle 1 tbsp of good-quality olive oil over the plate. Dollop pesto around the burrata and tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt flakes and fresh basil.

7. Serve: Accompany with warm crusty bread. Cut open the burrata at the table and enjoy with bread to mop up the luscious juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 as a starter.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the roasted tomatoes.

• Try different cheese: Use fresh mozzarella or stracciatella if burrata is unavailable.

• Add greens: Serve on a bed of arugula or baby spinach for more freshness.

• Use balsamic glaze: Drizzle a little balsamic reduction instead of vinegar for sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
If you have leftovers, store the tomatoes and pesto separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Burrata is best consumed the same day once opened.
To reheat the tomatoes, warm gently in the oven or microwave, but do not reheat burrata.

FAQs

Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?

Yes, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, but it won’t have the creamy center that makes burrata so special.

What is burrata?

Burrata is a soft Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it a rich, creamy texture.

Do I have to use homemade pesto?

No, store-bought pesto works well. However, homemade pesto will provide a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can roast the tomatoes a few hours ahead and bring them to room temperature before serving. Assemble just before eating.

What bread is best for serving?

Crusty sourdough, ciabatta, or a good baguette are all excellent choices for mopping up the juices and cheese.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, but cherry or grape tomatoes roast best due to their natural sweetness and size. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into chunks.

How do I know when the tomatoes are ready?

They should be soft and slightly burst but still hold their shape—about 10 minutes in a hot oven.

Is this dish served warm or cold?

It’s served warm or at room temperature. The contrast of warm tomatoes and cool burrata is part of its charm.

Is burrata lactose-free?

No, burrata contains dairy and is not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

Can I add other toppings?

Yes, try toasted pine nuts, olives, or even a drizzle of honey for a flavor twist.

Conclusion

Bursty Tomato Burrata Salad is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients at their best. From the warm, juicy tomatoes to the luscious burrata and herby pesto, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. Easy to prepare and beautiful on the plate, this dish is sure to become a favorite for entertaining or elevating a casual meal. Don’t forget the bread—the juices are too good to waste.

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