Burrata & Oven Roasted Tomato Salad

Burrata & oven roasted tomato salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and indulgent dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavor with every bite. The creamy, delicate burrata cheese paired with the rich, caramelized depth of slow-roasted tomatoes creates a combination that is both luxurious and wholesome. This salad offers the perfect contrast between soft and crisp, creamy and tangy, making it a wonderful starter, side, or even a light main course for those who love flavor-packed simplicity.

This dish not only looks stunning on a plate but also delivers a balance of textures and tastes that make it incredibly satisfying. The roasted tomatoes bring out their natural sweetness and umami richness, while the burrata adds a lush creaminess that melts beautifully into every forkful. With fresh greens, aromatic herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze, this salad becomes an elevated yet approachable dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this burrata & oven roasted tomato salad because it’s as effortless as it is elegant. The star ingredients speak for themselves—fresh, quality produce and luxurious cheese come together to create a dish that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their flavor, adding depth to every bite, while the burrata provides a soft, buttery contrast that melts delicately into the warm vegetables and greens.

It’s a perfect recipe for entertaining, date nights, or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-style experience at home. The salad is versatile enough to be served warm or chilled and works well year-round. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled dishes, crusty bread, or enjoying it on its own, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen for its incredible taste, beautiful presentation, and nourishing ingredients.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

• Serving Size: 1 salad plate

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Protein: 11g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients

For the oven-roasted tomatoes:

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the salad assembly:

• 2 balls of burrata cheese (4 oz each)

• 4 cups arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction (optional)

• Cracked black pepper to taste

Optional additions:

• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds

• Sliced avocado

• Crusty bread or pita on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the tomatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Spread the halved tomatoes in a single layer.

• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Toss gently to coat evenly.

• Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are soft, caramelized, and slightly blistered.

2. Prepare the salad base

• Arrange fresh greens on a serving platter or individual plates.

• Scatter fresh basil leaves over the greens.

• Optionally, drizzle with a small amount of olive oil for added richness.

3. Add burrata and tomatoes

• Carefully place one burrata ball in the center of each serving plate.

• Spoon the warm roasted tomatoes over and around the burrata.

• Allow the tomato juices to mingle with the burrata for enhanced flavor.

4. Garnish and serve

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.

• Sprinkle cracked black pepper over the top.

• Add optional toppings like toasted nuts or sliced avocado if desired.

• Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita on the side.

Ingredient Background

Burrata is a luxurious Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Its outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains a soft, rich mixture of stracciatella and cream. This contrast of textures makes it an ideal pairing for warm roasted vegetables, especially tomatoes. When served with a touch of olive oil and herbs, the cheese becomes even more decadent.

Tomatoes are a natural companion to burrata, especially when roasted. Roasting cherry or grape tomatoes deepens their sweetness and adds a rich, savory element to the dish. The greens provide a fresh, slightly peppery contrast, while olive oil and balsamic glaze bring balance and brightness to tie everything together beautifully.

Technique Tips

To maximize flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh burrata. If burrata is not available, fresh mozzarella can be a substitute, though it won’t offer the same creamy center. When roasting tomatoes, don’t overcrowd the pan—this allows them to caramelize rather than steam.

Allow the burrata to come to room temperature before serving so it’s softer and creamier. If you’re making this salad in advance, roast the tomatoes ahead of time and reheat gently before assembling. Add the greens and cheese only when ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

This salad is stunning when plated individually, but you can also create a large platter for family-style dining. Arrange the greens in a shallow serving bowl, scatter the tomatoes evenly, and nestle the burrata in the center.

For a rustic presentation, serve everything on a wooden board with bread slices arranged around it. You can also layer the components in a glass jar or clear bowl for a picnic-friendly version. Alternatively, serve the burrata over grilled flatbread topped with the roasted tomatoes and greens for a warm, open-faced twist.

Additional Tips for Success

Choose ripe but firm cherry or grape tomatoes for the best roasting result. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into wedges and adjust roasting time slightly. Don’t skip the fresh basil—it adds a fragrant, herbal brightness that lifts the entire dish.

For an extra burst of flavor, add a touch of lemon zest over the finished salad. Keep ingredients at similar temperatures to enhance harmony—either serve everything warm or ensure all components are cool and fresh. The dish can be elevated further with a sprinkle of finishing salt or infused olive oils.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this salad easily to suit different palates or seasonal ingredients. Try using heirloom tomatoes or yellow cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor. Replace arugula with baby kale or romaine for a milder base.

For a fruit-forward variation, add thin slices of ripe peaches or figs. Swap balsamic glaze with a honey vinaigrette for a touch of sweetness. For a protein boost, top with grilled chicken strips, chickpeas, or toasted nuts. You can also incorporate olives or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.

Freezing and Storage

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, especially because burrata does not freeze well and changes texture after refrigeration. However, the roasted tomatoes can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If storing leftovers, keep the components separate—greens, tomatoes, and burrata should be refrigerated individually. Assemble just before eating to preserve the texture and taste. Avoid freezing this dish, as the delicate ingredients do not hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Healthier Twist Ideas

This salad is already light and nourishing, but you can make it even more nutrient-rich by adding more fiber and healthy fats. Incorporate quinoa or lentils into the greens for extra protein and satiety.

Reduce the olive oil slightly or opt for a lemon vinaigrette instead of a glaze for fewer calories. Add more raw vegetables like cucumber ribbons, radish slices, or shredded carrots for additional crunch and nutrients. Choose a low-fat mozzarella alternative if you’re watching fat intake, though it may sacrifice some creaminess.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Burrata & oven roasted tomato salad is perfect for elegant gatherings, dinner parties, brunches, or seasonal celebrations. Serve it as a stunning starter before a main course or as part of a grazing table with dips, breads, and spreads.

You can also offer it in mini appetizer portions for cocktail events by placing a spoonful of roasted tomato and a torn piece of burrata on individual crostini. Pair it with sparkling water, herbal iced tea, or a citrusy spritzer for a refreshing beverage match.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet with parchment paper

• Sharp knife for halving tomatoes and slicing garnishes

• Salad tongs or serving utensils

• Serving platter or individual plates

• Small mixing bowl for tossing tomatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is burrata and how is it different from mozzarella?

• Burrata is a soft cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a solid outer layer of mozzarella and a creamy interior called stracciatella, offering a richer texture than traditional mozzarella.

2. Can I use another type of cheese?

• Yes, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as a substitute, though the texture and richness may differ slightly from burrata.

3. What kind of tomatoes work best?

• Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal due to their natural sweetness and size, but you can use Roma or heirloom varieties if sliced appropriately.

4. Can I serve this salad cold?

• Yes, it’s delicious cold as well. Just allow the roasted tomatoes to cool before assembling with the burrata and greens.

5. How do I store leftovers?

• Store tomatoes, greens, and burrata separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble fresh portions when ready to eat.

6. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

• You can roast the tomatoes in advance, but for best results, add greens and cheese just before serving to keep textures fresh.

7. What other toppings can I add?

• Try pine nuts, toasted seeds, avocado, olives, or grilled vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

8. Can I make this salad vegan?

• Yes, simply replace burrata with a plant-based cheese alternative or a creamy hummus-style spread for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Burrata & oven roasted tomato salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and luxurious flavor. From the silky creaminess of burrata to the deep, savory notes of roasted tomatoes, every element of this dish works in harmony to create a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that’s perfect for any season and every occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet lunch, this salad is a wonderful way to elevate your table with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your preferences, while its striking presentation makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find countless reasons to keep coming back to this simple yet elegant recipe.

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