Save This Tomato Peach Burrata Salad is my answer to the hottest summer days when I crave something luscious, vivid, and effortless. Ripe heirloom tomatoes meet juicy peaches and creamy burrata, all brightened with fresh basil and a glossy balsamic drizzle. It is the dish I reach for at every potluck or when I want a showstopping centerpiece that tastes even better than it looks.
The first time I made this salad for friends at a backyard dinner party it disappeared in minutes. Since then it became a regular gift to myself every tomato season.
Ingredients
- Heirloom tomatoes: Choose vibrant and firm tomatoes for maximum sweetness and color variety I love using a mix of red yellow and orange for the prettiest salad
- Ripe peaches: Go for peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best juicy texture Nectarines work beautifully if you prefer
- Fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil brings an aromatic lift and a classic Italian note Look for leaves without bruising
- Fresh burrata cheese: Burrata is creamy dreamy and indulgent Choose balls that are smooth and plump for the best texture Handle gently
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use your best bottle here A rich green oil truly elevates the flavors
- Balsamic glaze: A sweet tangy contrast drizzle that ties everything together Look for thick aged glaze for great depth
- Flaky sea salt: Brings out the fruit and cheese flavors A large flake salt like Maldon adds a delicate crunch
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds mellow heat and aroma Always grind fresh for the fullest taste
Instructions
- Slice the Produce:
- Slice heirloom tomatoes and peaches into even sized wedges Remove peach pits before cutting to keep slices intact and juicy Try to cut everything about half an inch thick for the best bite
- Arrange on a Platter:
- Alternate layers of tomato and peach slices on a large serving platter Arrange them in an overlapping pattern to showcase their color and keep the salad looking abundant
- Add the Burrata:
- Gently tear the burrata balls over the salad letting the creamy interior spill onto the fruit Disperse the cheese evenly so every serving gets both creamy and chewy bits
- Add Oil and Glaze:
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the layers followed by the balsamic glaze Make sure to go right over the burrata so everything gets a bit of sweetness and richness
- Top with Basil and Seasoning:
- Scatter fresh basil leaves across the salad Tuck whole leaves or tear some for more flavor Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt and finish with plenty of freshly ground black pepper
- Serve Immediately:
- Present right away at room temperature The flavors peak when served fresh and the texture of the burrata is at its best when slightly cool
Save Burrata is my absolute favorite for its surprise soft center I will never forget my niece tasting it for the first time and declaring that every salad should have cheese inside cheese
Storage Tips
This salad is best eaten fresh as both peaches and tomatoes can become watery over time If you have leftovers store them in an airtight container for up to a day but expect the textures to soften Reassemble the salad as needed just before serving to keep it looking beautiful
Ingredient Substitutions
Nectarines are a wonderful swap if peaches are not at their peak For the cheese mozzarella di bufala or even a thick ricotta work if you cannot source burrata For the glaze a splash of good quality balsamic vinegar can do in a pinch though it will be a bit less sweet
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad with grilled fish roasted chicken or a simple prosciutto and melon platter It also shines with hearty bread for scooping up the juices and cheese At brunch pair it with sparkling wine and a fresh herby omelet
Cultural and Historical Context
Tomatoes peaches and fresh cheese have classic roots in Italian cuisine marrying sweet acid and creamy elements Although you will see Caprese salads everywhere adding peaches and burrata gives a luxury twist inspired by late summer harvests in Northern Italy
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in plums or even ripe figs for peaches if you want a fall twist Try arugula or baby kale instead of basil for a peppery variation Use blood oranges and soft goat cheese in the winter for an elegant holiday salad
Success Stories
My friend served this at her engagement brunch and said it was the first dish to vanish Next week another neighbor asked for the recipe and now it is their family's go to for quick dinners Nothing makes me happier than seeing friends turn a simple idea into their own seasonal tradition
Freezer Meal Conversion
This is one recipe that does not freeze well Fresh peaches and tomatoes do not hold up to thawing and burrata becomes watery For meal prepping keep components separate and assemble right before serving
Save Bring this salad to your next picnic for effortless summer elegance and celebrate the best produce of the season in every bite.
Cooking Questions
- → What type of tomatoes work best?
Heirloom tomatoes are ideal for their color, taste, and juiciness, but any flavorful variety will work.
- → How should burrata be prepared for serving?
Gently tear burrata into large pieces and distribute over the arranged fruit and vegetables just before serving.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
It's best assembled just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
- → Are there substitutions for burrata?
Fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as alternatives, though the creamy quality of burrata is unique.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it contains only fresh produce, cheese, and pantry staples.
- → What should I serve alongside?
This pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread for a complete summer meal.