There is something undeniably special about dishes that capture the essence of a season, and this Irresistible Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle does exactly that. It is the kind of recipe that feels perfectly at home on a sunlit patio, at a relaxed weekend lunch, or as a beautiful starter for a gathering with family and friends. The sweetness of ripe peaches paired with creamy burrata creates a harmony that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light.
This salad was inspired by the simple joy of summer produce at its peak. When peaches are fragrant, juicy, and bursting with flavor, they deserve a place where they can truly shine. Combining them with soft burrata and a tangy balsamic drizzle transforms everyday ingredients into a dish that feels elegant yet effortless. It is a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and balance, inviting you to slow down and savor every bite.
Why This Peach Burrata Salad Is So Special
What makes this peach burrata salad irresistible is its perfect contrast of textures and flavors. You get the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches, the rich creaminess of burrata, the gentle bite of leafy greens, and the deep tang of balsamic drizzle all in one forkful. Each ingredient has a role, and none overpower the others.
Another reason this salad stands out is its versatility. It works beautifully as a light meal on its own, a refined starter for a dinner party, or a stunning side dish alongside grilled vegetables or roasted dishes. Despite its elegant appearance, it requires minimal effort and no complicated techniques, making it accessible even for beginner home cooks.
Finally, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can adjust the greens, tweak the drizzle, or add crunchy elements to suit your taste. Yet, even in its simplest form, this salad delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make this salad truly shine, focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays an important role in the final flavor.
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Fresh peaches: 3 medium ripe peaches, sliced into wedges (about 450 g total)
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Burrata cheese: 2 large balls (about 250 g total)
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Mixed salad greens: 4 packed cups (about 120 g), such as arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix
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Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup (about 150 g), halved
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Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
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Balsamic glaze: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
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Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup (about 10 g), torn
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Sea salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste
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Optional crunch: ¼ cup (30 g) toasted nuts or seeds of your choice
Choosing the Best Peaches for This Salad
Peaches are the heart of this recipe, so selecting the right ones makes all the difference. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. They should have a sweet aroma and vibrant color, indicating ripeness.
Avoid peaches that are overly firm or lack fragrance, as they may be underripe and less flavorful. On the other hand, overly soft peaches can fall apart when sliced. The goal is juicy, tender fruit that holds its shape while delivering maximum sweetness.
If peaches are not in season, you can still enjoy this salad by choosing the best available fruit and letting it ripen at room temperature for a day or two. However, when peaches are at their seasonal peak, this salad truly reaches its full potential.
Understanding Burrata and Why It Works Here
Burrata is a fresh cheese known for its delicate outer shell and creamy center. When cut open, it gently spills out, creating a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with sweet fruit. In this salad, burrata acts as a rich counterpoint to the juicy peaches and tangy balsamic drizzle.
The mild flavor of burrata allows the other ingredients to shine while adding a soft, indulgent element to the dish. It is best served at room temperature, so remember to take it out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before assembling the salad. This small step enhances its creaminess and overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Greens
Begin by focusing on the foundation of the salad: the greens. Rinse the mixed salad greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. This step is essential, especially if you are using tender leaves like arugula or baby spinach, which can trap soil near the stems. After washing, dry the greens completely using a salad spinner or gently patting them dry with clean kitchen towels. Removing excess moisture helps prevent the salad from becoming watery and ensures the dressing coats the leaves evenly.
Once dry, transfer the greens to a large serving bowl or spread them across a wide platter. A platter works particularly well if you want a visually striking presentation, as it allows each ingredient to be seen clearly. Arrange the greens loosely rather than packing them tightly, creating an airy, fresh base that sets the stage for the layers to come.
2. Slice the Peaches
Next, prepare the peaches, which bring natural sweetness and juiciness to the salad. Wash the peaches gently and dry them with a towel. Using a sharp knife, cut each peach in half, twist to separate, and remove the pit. Slice the peach halves into even wedges, aiming for uniform thickness so that each bite feels balanced.
As you arrange the peach slices over the greens, spread them evenly across the surface rather than piling them in one spot. This ensures that every serving includes a touch of peach sweetness. Take a moment to appreciate their color and aroma, as ripe peaches add both visual appeal and fragrance to the dish.
3. Add the Tomatoes
The cherry tomatoes add a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the burrata. Rinse the tomatoes, pat them dry, and slice them in half. If they are particularly large, you can quarter them for easier eating.
Scatter the tomatoes evenly over the salad, allowing them to nestle naturally among the peaches and greens. Their bright color adds contrast and depth, making the salad look vibrant and inviting. This step may seem simple, but the tomatoes play an important role in keeping the overall flavor profile fresh and lively.
4. Place the Burrata
Now comes the star ingredient: the burrata. Remove it from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before assembling the salad so it can reach room temperature. This enhances its creamy texture and flavor. Gently place the burrata balls on top of the salad, spacing them evenly.
You can choose to leave the burrata whole for an elegant, dramatic presentation, or gently tear it open to reveal the soft, creamy center. Allowing the burrata to spill slightly over the peaches and greens creates a luxurious feel and ensures that the creaminess is distributed throughout the salad.
5. Season and Drizzle
With the main components in place, it is time to season and dress the salad. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the entire dish, using a light hand to avoid overpowering the ingredients. Follow with the balsamic glaze, letting it fall naturally over the peaches and burrata for both flavor and visual appeal.
Finish by sprinkling sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient and tie everything together. Taste and adjust if needed, keeping balance in mind.
6. Finish with Basil and Crunch
To complete the salad, scatter the torn fresh basil leaves over the top. Basil adds a fragrant, herbal note that lifts the dish and complements the sweetness of the peaches. If you are using toasted nuts or seeds, sprinkle them evenly at this stage for added texture and contrast.
Serve the salad immediately while the greens are crisp, the burrata is creamy, and the flavors are at their freshest. This final step brings everything together into a dish that is as satisfying to eat as it is beautiful to present.
Tips for the Perfect Balsamic Drizzle
A good balsamic glaze should be thick enough to coat a spoon and slightly sweet with a balanced tang. If your glaze is too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of water. If it is too thin, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the salad.
Drizzle the glaze just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens and the creamy texture of the burrata. A light hand is key; the goal is to enhance, not mask, the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This peach burrata salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, roasted chicken-style dishes, or warm crusty bread. It also works well as part of a larger spread for gatherings, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier options.
For a light meal, enjoy it on its own with bread to soak up the creamy burrata and balsamic drizzle. Its balance of flavors makes it satisfying without feeling heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the greens and burrata are at their peak right after assembly. However, you can prepare some components in advance to save time. Wash and dry the greens, slice the peaches, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, simply assemble the salad, add the burrata, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. This approach ensures freshness while making entertaining easier.
2. What can I use instead of burrata?
If burrata is not available, fresh mozzarella is an excellent alternative. Look for high-quality mozzarella with a soft texture. While it will not have the same creamy center as burrata, it still provides a mild, milky flavor that complements the peaches beautifully. You can also use a combination of mozzarella and a spoonful of ricotta for a creamier effect.
3. How do I prevent the peaches from browning?
Peaches can begin to brown once sliced, especially if prepared in advance. To slow this process, lightly toss the peach slices with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The acidity helps preserve their color without significantly altering the flavor of the salad. Be sure to use a minimal amount to keep the peaches tasting sweet and fresh.
4. Is this salad suitable for different seasons?
While this salad truly shines during peach season, it can be adapted for other times of the year. In cooler months, you can substitute peaches with pears or apples for a different yet equally delicious experience. Adjusting the fruit allows you to enjoy the creamy burrata and balsamic combination year-round while embracing seasonal produce.
Final Thoughts
The Irresistible Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to celebrate fresh ingredients and simple preparation. It reminds us that great food does not need to be complicated to feel special. With just a handful of thoughtfully chosen components, you can create a dish that looks stunning, tastes incredible, and feels deeply satisfying.
This salad encourages creativity and flexibility. Once you master the basic combination of sweet fruit, creamy cheese, fresh greens, and tangy drizzle, you can experiment with variations that suit your preferences and the season. It is a recipe that grows with you, adapting to different occasions and moods.
Most importantly, this dish is meant to be shared. Whether you serve it at a family meal, a casual lunch with friends, or a celebratory gathering, it has a way of bringing people together. Each bite offers a balance of flavors that feels comforting yet refined. If you are looking for a recipe that captures the joy of fresh, simple cooking, this peach burrata salad is one you will return to again and again.
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Irresistible Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A fresh and elegant salad that combines juicy peaches, creamy burrata, and a tangy balsamic drizzle for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
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Fresh peaches: 3 medium (about 450 g), sliced
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Burrata cheese: 2 large balls (about 250 g)
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Mixed salad greens: 4 cups (about 120 g)
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Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup (about 150 g), halved
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Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
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Balsamic glaze: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
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Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup (about 10 g), torn
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Sea salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste
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Optional toasted nuts or seeds: ¼ cup (30 g)
Instructions
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Arrange the washed and dried salad greens on a serving platter or in a large bowl.
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Distribute the sliced peaches evenly over the greens.
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Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
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Place the burrata balls over the salad, tearing them gently if desired.
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Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
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Season with sea salt and black pepper.
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Finish with fresh basil and optional toasted nuts or seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best flavor, use ripe, in-season peaches and allow the burrata to come to room temperature before serving. Adjust the balsamic glaze to taste, using a light hand to keep the salad balanced.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
