Watermelon Burrata Salad is a refreshing summer dish that perfectly combines sweet, juicy watermelon with creamy burrata cheese. This salad is not only visually appealing but also a versatile option for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. The vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of juicy watermelon and creamy burrata creates a delightful taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course—perfect for any summer gathering.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and herbs, this salad is both delicious and good for you.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad a beautiful centerpiece on your table.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Watermelon Burrata Salad, having the right tools will make the process seamless. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large plate or platter
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on the watermelon and burrata for an attractive presentation.
- Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Large plate or platter: A wide serving dish allows you to arrange the salad beautifully, showcasing its vibrant colors.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain flavor balance in the dressing.
Ingredients
For this delightful Watermelon Burrata Salad, gather the following ingredients:
For the Salad
- 4 cups seedless watermelon cubes
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ½ cup fresh basil, leaves only
- sprinkle of kosher salt or salt flakes
How to Make Watermelon Burrata Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Begin by arranging the watermelon cubes on a large plate or platter.
Step 2: Add the Burrata
Carefully tear the burrata into large pieces. Place these pieces among the watermelon cubes on the plate.
Step 3: Drizzle with Dressing
Drizzle the assembled salad with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Ensure even coverage for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Basil and Salt
Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and scatter them over the salad. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt over everything to enhance the flavors before serving.
This Watermelon Burrata Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately to savor all its fresh flavors.
How to Serve Watermelon Burrata Salad
Watermelon Burrata Salad is refreshing and versatile, perfect for summer gatherings or casual meals. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Standalone Dish
- Enjoy this salad as a light lunch or dinner option. The combination of watermelon and burrata provides a satisfying meal without being too heavy.
With Grilled Chicken
- Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The smoky flavors complement the sweetness of the watermelon perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the salad over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach. This adds extra nutrients and a nice peppery flavor that balances the dish.
As an Appetizer
- Present small portions as an appetizer at parties. Guests will love this unique and flavorful starter.
With Toasted Bread
- Serve alongside slices of toasted baguette or crostini. A crunchy element enhances the creamy burrata and juicy watermelon.
Drizzled with Extra Balsamic Glaze
- For an extra touch, drizzle more balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. This adds depth and richness to each bite.
How to Perfect Watermelon Burrata Salad
Creating the perfect Watermelon Burrata Salad is easy with these simple tips.
Choose ripe watermelon: Select a sweet, ripe watermelon for maximum flavor. Look for a firm, heavy fruit with a uniform shape.
Use fresh burrata: Fresh burrata cheese yields the best creaminess and flavor. Check your local cheese shop for quality options.
Add herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for added complexity in flavor.
Serve chilled: Keep all ingredients chilled before assembling. A cold salad is particularly refreshing on hot days.
Balance flavors: Adjust the amount of salt and balsamic glaze according to your taste preference for a balanced dish.
Plate creatively: Arrange ingredients artfully on the plate to make it visually appealing. Presentation can enhance the dining experience significantly.
Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Burrata Salad
Watermelon Burrata Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the salad’s sweetness.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber and lemon provides a hearty yet refreshing side that matches well with this dish.
Caprese Skewers: Simple skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella are an excellent finger food option that ties in beautifully with Italian flavors.
Pita Chips and Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with creamy hummus offer a fun texture contrast while remaining light on calories.
Chilled Gazpacho: This cold soup made from fresh tomatoes and peppers adds another refreshing element to your meal, perfect for summer dining.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the salad’s ingredients, offering heartiness without overpowering it.
Stuffed Peppers: Mini stuffed peppers filled with rice or vegetables provide both color and substance to your dining table.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs brings a delightful Mediterranean flair that complements the main salad beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Watermelon Burrata Salad can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using unripe watermelon: Choosing a ripe watermelon is essential. Look for a uniform shape and a creamy yellow spot on the skin for optimal sweetness.
- Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to drizzle too much balsamic glaze or olive oil. Start with smaller amounts and adjust according to taste.
- Skipping the salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances flavors. Omitting it can result in a bland salad, so don’t forget this crucial step.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality burrata make all the difference. Avoid pre-packaged or wilted herbs and seek out the freshest options.
- Cutting the watermelon too small: Large cubes of watermelon provide better texture and presentation. Aim for substantial pieces that are easy to grab with your fork.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing Watermelon Burrata Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture change of watermelon and burrata when thawed.
Reheating Watermelon Burrata Salad
- Oven: Not suitable for this salad as it is best served fresh and cold.
- Microwave: Not recommended; heating will affect texture.
- Stovetop: Avoid reheating; serve cold for optimal freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Watermelon Burrata Salad.
What can I substitute for burrata cheese in Watermelon Burrata Salad?
If you can’t find burrata, try using fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a similar creamy texture.
How do I make my Watermelon Burrata Salad more flavorful?
Add additional toppings like sliced almonds, arugula, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to elevate flavors.
Can I make Watermelon Burrata Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
What should I serve with Watermelon Burrata Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or seafood dishes, making it an excellent side for summer meals.
Is Watermelon Burrata Salad healthy?
Yes! It is low in calories and rich in vitamins from fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious choice.
How long does Watermelon Burrata Salad last?
It lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
Watermelon Burrata Salad is a delightful summer dish that combines sweet watermelon with creamy burrata. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various herbs or toppings based on your preferences. Try this refreshing salad at your next gathering!
Watermelon Burrata Salad
Watermelon Burrata Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This delightful salad combines juicy watermelon cubes with creamy burrata cheese, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, and garnished with fresh basil leaves. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon cubes
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- Kosher salt or salt flakes
Instructions
- Arrange watermelon cubes on a large plate or platter.
- Tear burrata into large pieces and place among the watermelon.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for flavor.
- Tear basil leaves into smaller pieces and scatter over the salad. Finish with a sprinkle of salt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad portion (150g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg