Name: Burrata Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes, Basil, and Crispy Ciabatta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 ounces (1/4 loaf) ciabatta bread, torn into bite-sized pieces; 3 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced about 1/4-inch thick; 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces (2 balls) burrata cheese, at room temperature; 20 fresh basil leaves, torn; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for ciabatta); 2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This Burrata Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that beautifully combines creamy cheese with juicy heirloom tomatoes and crispy toasted ciabatta. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a light lunch or elegant appetizer.

A white plate holds a fresh salad made of three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of red and yellow tomato slices, showing juicy, glossy textures; the middle layer features dollops of soft, white burrata cheese with a creamy appearance, spread unevenly across the tomatoes; on top, golden-brown, crispy bread croutons are scattered along with fresh green basil leaves, adding a contrast of dry and leafy textures. The salad is lightly drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze in thin lines across the dish. The whole presentation sits against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 ounces (1/4 loaf) ciabatta bread (torn into bite-sized pieces)
3 medium heirloom tomatoes (sliced about 1/4-inch thick)

1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes (halved)
8 ounces (2 balls) burrata cheese (at room temperature)

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for ciabatta)
2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
20 fresh basil leaves (torn)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drizzle some olive oil over the torn ciabatta pieces, spread them evenly on a baking sheet, and toast for about 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 2: Arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes and halved cherry tomatoes on a serving plate.
Step 3: Gently tear the burrata cheese into pieces and place it over the tomatoes.

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Drizzle the dressing over the tomatoes and burrata, then scatter the torn basil leaves on top.
Step 6: Serve the toasted ciabatta bread on the side or scatter it atop the salad for added crunch.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and sweetness.
Substitute basil with fresh oregano or mint for a different herbaceous note.
For extra texture, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts.

If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or Dijon mustard to the balsamic dressing.

Storage

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, so keep it refrigerated and add it just before serving. Leftover toasted ciabatta can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container for 1-2 days but may lose its crispness. Reheat the bread briefly in a toaster oven to restore crunch.

How to Serve

A white oval plate sits on a white marbled surface filled with a layered salad starting from the bottom with slices of red and yellow tomatoes. The second layer has refreshingly white dollops of creamy cheese spread unevenly over the tomatoes. Scattered all over are golden brown toasted bread cubes giving a crunchy texture contrast. Fresh green basil leaves add a pop of color on top, along with small traces of drizzle that looks like olive oil and a balsamic glaze. To the upper left of the plate, an additional small white plate holds more toasted bread cubes, and a glass bottle filled with golden olive oil is placed on the upper right side. Various bowls and containers with white cheese, dressing, and halved cherry tomatoes surround the main plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of burrata?

Yes, you can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella, but burrata’s creamy texture provides a richer, more luxurious mouthfeel that really elevates this salad.

How do I know when burrata is at room temperature?

Remove the burrata from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. It should feel cool but not cold, which helps bring out its creamy flavor and soft texture.