Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad. This vibrant dish combines juicy tomatoes, sweet peaches, and creamy burrata cheese, creating a delightful blend of flavors that works well for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners. With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only visually appealing but also quick and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: The combination of ripe tomatoes and sweet peaches creates a delicious contrast that excites the palate.
• Quick Preparation: This tomato, peach, and burrata salad can be assembled in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or a light main course, this salad suits various occasions from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats from olive oil and burrata, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad visually stunning, sure to impress guests at any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad seamlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures an efficient prep process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large mixing bowl
• A glass jar for vinaigrette
• A whisk
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together without spilling.
• Glass jar: Perfect for shaking up the vinaigrette and minimizing mess when combining ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts on tomatoes, peaches, and herbs for better presentation.

Ingredients

Summer on a plate…simple to throw together but so fresh and flavorful!

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic or champagne vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• red pepper flakes
• kosher salt and black pepper

For the Salad

• 1 1/2 – 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved if large
• 2-3 peaches, sliced into wedges
• 1 cup pitted fresh cherries
• 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (or other nut/seed)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

To make the vinaigrette:
1. Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a glass jar.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Toss the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Toss together the cherry tomatoes, peach wedges, and pitted cherries with one-third of the prepared vinaigrette.
2. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Once marinated:
1. Break apart the balls of burrata cheese over the salad mixture.
2. Drizzle with remaining vinaigrette.
3. Top with toasted pumpkin seeds and additional fresh herbs if desired.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad alongside grilled or toasted bread for a complete meal experience. Enjoy!

How to Serve Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Serving Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is all about enhancing its fresh flavors while providing the perfect dining experience. This vibrant salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy it solo for a light and refreshing lunch option. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for added texture.

At a Summer Picnic

• Pack this salad in a portable container for picnics. It holds up well and is sure to impress your friends with its colorful presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Serve it as an appetizer before a main meal. The combination of sweet peaches and creamy burrata makes for an enticing starter.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish. The freshness of the salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled dishes beautifully.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include it on a charcuterie board. The salad adds a pop of color and flavor alongside meats and cheeses.

For a Festive Gathering

• Present it at holiday gatherings or celebrations. Its bright colors make it visually appealing for festive occasions.

How to Perfect Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Perfecting your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad involves attention to detail and using high-quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance your salad.

• Choose ripe produce: Select ripe tomatoes and peaches for the best flavor. Look for firmness with slight give when pressed.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the taste significantly. Consider using basil, oregano, dill, or thyme as suggested in the recipe.

• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, serve the salad right after tossing with vinaigrette. This ensures the ingredients remain crisp.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, and chili flakes to suit your preference. A little tweak can enhance overall flavor.

• Chill before serving: If you prefer a chilled salad, let it sit in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Garnish thoughtfully: Finish with toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts for added crunch and nutrition. It also enhances visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Pairing sides with your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad can create a balanced meal that is both satisfying and delicious. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds protein that complements the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs enhances the meal’s healthiness while keeping flavors aligned.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle to enjoy any leftover dressing from the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth to your table while contrasting beautifully with the cool salad.
5. Pasta Primavera: A simple pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables provides heartiness that pairs well with lighter dishes like this salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or grains offer additional fiber and flavor while keeping things vibrant on your plate.
7. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia drizzled with olive oil offers a delightful texture contrast when served alongside the salad.
8. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can complement both the sweetness of peaches and creaminess of burrata perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is a hit, here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key in this salad. Always choose ripe tomatoes, fresh peaches, and high-quality burrata for the best flavor.
• Skipping the vinaigrette: The dressing brings all the flavors together. Don’t skip it; take time to whisk it until smooth and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors meld together. Avoid serving immediately after tossing.
• Overdressing the salad: Use just enough vinaigrette to enhance the flavors without drowning the ingredients. Start with a little and add more if needed.
• Ignoring herbs: Fresh herbs elevate this dish. Don’t skip them; use a mix of basil, oregano, dill, and thyme for a well-rounded taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Not recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients.

Reheating Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Oven: Not suitable for reheating as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid heating in the microwave; it will alter the texture of the burrata and vegetables.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; serve cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and add the burrata just before serving.

What can I substitute for burrata cheese?

If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can work as alternatives while still providing a creamy texture.

How do I select ripe peaches for my salad?

Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed but aren’t overly soft. They should have a sweet aroma and vibrant color.

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fruits like nectarines or plums that complement tomatoes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad offers a delightful combination of flavors that captures summer on a plate. It’s versatile enough to serve as a light meal or an impressive side dish. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or nuts! Enjoy crafting this delicious recipe!