Romantic Tomato Burrata Salad

Name: Romantic Tomato Burrata Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, sliced; 8 oz burrata cheese; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural Flavors

I absolutely love making this Romantic Tomato Burrata Salad for special occasions. The combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist. The touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar enhances the flavors, making this dish a perfect starter or side for a romantic dinner. I enjoy using heirloom tomatoes for their unique colors and flavors, which elevate the presentation and taste. A sprinkle of sea salt and fragrant basil ties everything together, making each bite a little slice of heaven.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:43:18.045Z

Creating the perfect Romantic Tomato Burrata Salad was an adventure that involved experimenting with different types of tomatoes. I discovered that heirloom varieties not only taste divine but also add a beautiful array of colors to the dish. The creaminess of the burrata contrasts nicely with with the acidity of the tomatoes, making each bite a new experience.

While preparing this salad, I learned that letting the ingredients sit for a few minutes after assembly allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The aged balsamic vinegar I use adds a rich depth, ensuring that this salad is a real crowd-pleaser. It's perfect for a date night or an intimate gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Fresh tomatoes bursting with flavor that harmonize beautifully with creamy burrata.
Elegant presentation that impresses without requiring advanced cooking skills.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch to a simple salad.

      

The Art of Tomato Selection

Choosing the right tomatoes is crucial for this salad. Heirloom tomatoes not only vary in shape and color but also in flavor profiles. Look for firm tomatoes that feel heavy for their size. A bit of give when you gently squeeze is a sign of ripeness. When slicing, aim for even thickness, around half an inch, which allows for both a visual appeal and consistent taste in each bite.

If heirloom tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with vine-ripened tomatoes for a similar texture and flavor, but you may lose some of the color variety. For a sweeter touch, consider cherry or grape tomatoes, but adjust your slicing method to keep their sizes uniform. Maintaining the integrity of the tomato is key to a balanced salad.

Perfecting the Burrata Experience

When using burrata cheese, freshness is paramount. Look for a cheese that feels soft yet slightly firm, and has a shiny outer skin. To enhance the creaminess within, allow the burrata to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and will amplify the creamy texture as it melds with the tomatoes.

You can also create variations with burrata: try incorporating herb-infused burrata or pairing it with a flavored oil to introduce new taste elements. Keep in mind that quality burrata may have an extra layer of liquid inside; gently puncture the outer shell to release this creamy goodness as a delightful surprise for your guests.

Serving and Storage Tips

This salad is best served immediately after assembly to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If preparing a short time in advance, store the components separately—keep the dressed salad refrigerated to avoid wilting. You can prep the tomatoes and burrata a few hours beforehand; just be sure to drizzle the olive oil and balsamic right before serving to avoid sogginess.

For leftovers, if there are any, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reuse the salad in a wrap with some protein for a delightful lunch the next day. Enjoying this salad with a light, crisp white wine can make the experience even more romantic!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, sliced
8 oz burrata cheese
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Once you have everything, you are ready to prepare your salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Arrange the Tomatoes

On a large platter, arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes in an appealing fashion to create a colorful base.

Add Burrata

Place the burrata cheese in the center of the tomato arrangement, allowing it to shine.

Drizzle with Oil and Balsamic

Gently drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the tomatoes and cheese for added flavor.

Season and Garnish

Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.

Serve

Serve immediately, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this salad!

Enjoy this luscious salad as a starter or a light meal accompanied by crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra gourmet touch, try adding thinly sliced red onions or a handful of arugula for some peppery notes.

Flavor Enhancements

Consider adding a touch of heat to the salad with thinly sliced red pepper flakes. This contrast will not only enhance the depth of flavors but also add an unexpected kick. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can introduce a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy burrata beautifully.

Another way to elevate this dish is by incorporating flavored oils, such as infused garlic or rosemary olive oil. Just a teaspoon drizzled over the top can significantly deepen the flavor profile without overwhelming the freshness of the tomatoes and cheese.

Dietary Substitutions

For those on a dairy-free diet, substitution is possible. Look for plant-based burrata alternatives made from nuts or soy. Additionally, if balsamic vinegar is not suitable, coconut aminos can be a great substitute with a slightly different flavor yet a similar sweetness.

If you or your guests are following a low-carb diet, you could skip the balsamic glaze entirely and replace it with a sprinkle of lemon zest. This will impart a refreshing citrus note that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?

Yes, but heirloom tomatoes are recommended for their unique flavors and colors.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Avocado, olives, or even cooked shrimp can be great additions.

→ Is burrata cheese the same as mozzarella?

Burrata is similar to mozzarella but creamier and softer inside, making it a luscious choice for salads.