Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make dish for summer? Peach Burrata Salad is the perfect choice for those hot days when you crave something light yet tasty. This salad brings together juicy peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and vibrant greens, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
This salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports healthy eating. Peaches are packed with vitamins, while burrata cheese adds a rich, creamy texture without being too heavy. Whether you add a balsamic dressing or mix in some prosciutto, it's a dish that can be easily customized to fit any occasion.
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even brunch with friends, Peach Burrata Salad is a versatile and delicious option. The blend of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it's so simple to put together that you'll want to make it again and again.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Breakdown
Choosing the right ingredients for a Peach Burrata Salad is essential to achieving a balanced and flavorful dish. From juicy, ripe peaches to creamy burrata cheese and fresh herbs, each component plays a vital role.
Choosing the Right Peaches
Selecting the right peaches is crucial. Ripe peaches should be slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy. They must have a vibrant color, free from any greenish hues, which indicates they are not ripe. Peaches are a stone fruit and selecting the perfect ones will ensure the salad is sweet and juicy. It's best to look for peaches that have a fragrant aroma, as this is a good indicator of ripeness.
When preparing the peaches, make sure to wash them thoroughly, remove the pit, and slice them evenly. This allows for a uniform texture throughout the salad. Sliced peaches can be left raw or grilled for a caramelized flavor.
The Richness of Burrata Cheese
Burrata cheese is the star of this salad. Its rich, creamy texture pairs perfectly with juicy peaches. Burrata consists of a mozzarella exterior and a soft, creamy interior. To prepare burrata, remove it from its liquid and let the excess liquid drip off.
When placing burrata on the salad, tear or cut it into pieces to expose the creamy center. This ensures every bite has a bit of burrata. The softness of burrata cheese contrasts beautifully with the peaches, providing a luxurious mouthfeel to the salad.
Enhancing Flavors with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like basil elevate the flavors of the salad. Basil adds a fragrant, slightly peppery taste that complements both the sweet peaches and rich burrata. Tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes, can be added for an additional burst of freshness and color.
When assembling the salad, layer the herbs and tomatoes between the peaches and burrata. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette for added depth. A dash of salt can amplify the flavors, making the salad more vibrant and balanced. Feel free to experiment with other herbs, like mint or thyme, to add unique twists to the summer salad.
Preparation Techniques
Creating a Peach Burrata Salad involves grilling peaches, assembling fresh ingredients, and exploring various substitutions and variations. Here's how to perfect each step.
Grilling for the Perfect Char
For a delicious Peach Burrata Salad, grilling the peaches can add a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. Start by cutting fresh peaches into halves or quarters.
Brush each piece with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the peaches cut side down, grilling for 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and slightly charred. Use a grill pan if you don't have an outdoor grill. This step enhances the sweetness and adds a nice texture contrast to the salad.
Assembling the Salad
Begin with a base of fresh arugula and spinach. Lay them evenly on a large serving platter or bowl.
Scatter sliced peaches over the greens. Arrange cherry tomatoes, cut into halves, among the peaches. Place the burrata cheese in chunks or tear it into smaller pieces for easier serving.
Drizzle with a homemade vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, thyme, and fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle pine nuts or toasted almond slices for added crunch. Make sure each ingredient is evenly distributed for a perfect bite every time.
Substitutions and Recipe Variations
If some ingredients aren't available or you want to try something new, there are many substitutions and variations to explore.
Instead of burrata, mozzarella pearls can be a good alternative. For greens, try using mixed baby greens or even kale for a rugged texture. Grilled apricots or nectarines can replace peaches while keeping that sweet summer flavor.
Adding toppings like prosciutto or even changes in nuts like walnuts or pecans can give a different taste and texture profile.
Experimenting with different vinaigrettes, including lemon-based or wine vinegar dressings, ensures you tailor the salad to your liking and the flavors of the season.
Serving Suggestions
Peach Burrata Salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides for a complete meal. It's important to present the salad attractively to enhance its appeal.
Pairings and Complements
Side Dish: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or even a simple pasta dish. Bread like ciabatta or baguette works great for soaking up the extra burrata cheese and dressing.
Platter: Serve the salad on a large platter, making it easy for everyone to help themselves. This makes it perfect for a summer salad at casual gatherings.
Complementary Ingredients: Adding ingredients like arugula, mint leaves, and fresh herbs can elevate the flavors. Prosciutto or bacon can add a salty twist that contrasts well with the sweet peaches.
Presentation Tips
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients to make the salad vibrant. The peaches should be just ripe, and the burrata should be creamy and fresh.
Layering: When assembling, start with a bed of arugula. Then layer in the peaches, burrata, and any additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or sweet onion.
Finishing Touches: Drizzle a light dressing made of balsamic glaze or a simple vinaigrette over the top. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and freshly ground black pepper for added texture and flavor.
Plating: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in individual portions or on a beautifully arranged Caprese salad style platter. This ensures everyone gets an equal share of all the components for a perfect bite every time.
Peach Burrata Summer Salad
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 oz baby arugula
- 2 oz baby romaine
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 4 oz burrata cheese
- ¼ cup almonds, chopped
- Flaky sea salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Directions
Make the dressing
In a small jar, combine olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper. Shake until well mixed.Prepare peaches
Thinly slice the peaches right before assembling the salad. For best results, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the slices to keep them from browning.Assemble the greens
Layer baby arugula and baby romaine in a large salad bowl or on individual plates.Add fruits and cheese
Top the greens with the sliced peaches. Gently break the burrata into pieces and spread over the salad.Finish the salad
Sprinkle the chopped almonds on top. Drizzle with the prepared dressing. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Almond options: Use roasted, unsalted almonds for extra crunch.
- Burrata: Break the burrata gently with a spoon to preserve its creamy texture.
- Storage: Best served immediately. If prepping ahead, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
- Peach prep: Sprinkle lemon juice on the sliced peaches to keep them vibrant.
Nutritional Profile
A Peach Burrata Salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and a range of nutritional benefits. This salad includes peaches, burrata cheese, fresh basil, and other ingredients that contribute to its nutrient-rich profile.
Calorie Content
This salad is light but satisfying. Two cups of Peach Burrata Salad contain approximately 210 calories. Fresh peaches provide natural sugars, while burrata cheese adds some protein and fat.
| Nutrient | Amount (per 2 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
Macronutrient Breakdown
The macronutrients in this salad come from various sources. Peaches are high in carbohydrates and natural sugars. Meanwhile, burrata adds protein and fat.
Carbs: The majority of the carbohydrates come from peaches, providing quick energy.
Proteins: Burrata cheese offers a source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth.
Fats: The fat content includes saturated fat from burrata and healthy fats from olive oil used in the dressing.
Vitamins and Minerals
Peach Burrata Salad is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. Peaches are rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C, while burrata contributes calcium and iron.
Peaches:
- Vitamin A: Promotes good vision and immune function.
- Vitamin C: Helps in tissue repair and immune support.
- Potassium: Supports muscle function and electrolyte balance.
Burrata Cheese:
- Calcium: Important for bone health.
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
Dietary Considerations
This salad can be adapted to meet various dietary needs.
Low-Carb Diets: To reduce carbs, limit the amount of peaches.
Lactose Intolerance: Those with lactose intolerance should consider substituting burrata with a lactose-free cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
Low-Sodium: Use less prosciutto or choose a low-sodium version to decrease salt intake.
Gluten-Free: The basic recipe is gluten-free, but ensure that all ingredients used in dressings or toppings are certified gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peach burrata salad is a delightful and refreshing dish perfect for summer. Here are some common questions about this recipe, including ingredients, dressings, and variations.
What are the key ingredients for a summer peach burrata salad?
Typically, you will need ripe peaches, burrata cheese, and a mix of fresh greens like arugula or baby romaine. Additional toppings can include nuts, basil, or prosciutto.
What dressings pair well with a peach burrata salad?
Balsamic glaze and balsamic vinaigrette are popular choices. You can also use a simple mix of olive oil and vinegar or a honey-based dressing for added sweetness.
What greens pair well with peach burrata salad?
Arugula and baby romaine are excellent choices. They add a peppery taste that balances the sweetness of the peaches. You can also use mixed greens or even spinach.
How do you incorporate prosciutto into a peach burrata salad?
Tear or slice the prosciutto into small pieces and scatter it over the salad. It adds a savory, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the peaches and the creaminess of the burrata.
How can I prepare a grilled peach and burrata salad?
Start by lightly oiling the peach halves and grilling them for 1-2 minutes on each side. Once grilled, assemble your salad with greens, burrata, and any additional toppings like nuts or herbs.
Which recipes are low-calorie variations of the peach burrata salad?
Use less cheese and opt for a lighter dressing, like a simple olive oil and lemon juice mix. Skip the nuts and prosciutto to reduce the calorie count further without sacrificing much flavor.
Can a peach burrata salad be considered a healthy meal option?
Yes, it can be healthy, especially when you use fresh, whole ingredients. The salad offers vitamins from the peaches and greens, along with protein from the burrata and prosciutto. Just be mindful of the dressing and additional toppings.
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