Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely adore this Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad! The combination of juicy roasted strawberries with creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. As someone who loves light yet flavorful meals, this salad offers the perfect blend of sweetness and savory notes. The dressing is light and refreshing, making it a fantastic dish for any occasion. Whether served at a picnic or a dinner party, this salad never fails to impress. Trust me, it's a game changer for your summer gatherings!
When I first made the Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad, I was blown away by how the roasting process intensified the strawberries' natural sweetness. I experimented with different herbs, and a sprinkle of fresh basil added a lovely aromatic touch that really elevated the flavor profile. The creaminess of the burrata paired perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a delightful balance. This is definitely a recipe I’ll continue to enjoy throughout the summer months.
One tip I've discovered is to let the roasted strawberries sit for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. This wait allows the juices to blend beautifully with the dressing, enhancing every bite. I prefer using a high-quality balsamic glaze to drizzle over the top, which ties all the flavors together magnificently. It’s a dish I find myself making again and again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors
- Creamy burrata that adds a luxurious touch
- Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
Understanding Strawberries
Selecting the right strawberries is crucial for this Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad. Look for berries that are vibrant red and firm, as these will roast beautifully and maintain a balance of sweetness and acidity. Avoid any that have white spots or are overly soft, as they may lack flavor and texture. For an even greater depth of flavor, consider using a combination of strawberries and other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, which can add an interesting contrast in taste and color.
If you're making this salad during off-seasons when strawberries are not at their peak, try substituting with other fruits like peaches or nectarines. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, as these fruits can have different water content and sweetness levels when roasted. The key is to aim for caramelization, which brings out the natural sugars in whatever fruit you choose.
The Role of Burrata
Burrata cheese is what elevates this salad with its creamy texture and rich flavor. Unlike regular mozzarella, burrata has a soft outer casing filled with stracciatella, a blend of cream and mozzarella. This melty center creates a luxurious mouthfeel that perfectly complements the sweetness of the roasted strawberries. When you cut into the burrata, let its creaminess spread over the greens and fruit—this adds a delightful richness to every bite.
If burrata isn't available, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or even goat cheese, but be mindful that goat cheese will introduce a tangy flavor that can change the overall profile of the dish. If you use mozzarella, consider mixing in a small amount of heavy cream to approximate the richness of burrata.
Customizing Your Salad
This Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad is wonderfully versatile; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Adding nuts like toasted walnuts or almonds can provide an appealing crunch and an additional layer of flavor. For a bolder taste, crumbled feta or a sprinkle of chili flakes can be excellent alternatives that bring a hint of saltiness and spice to balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
Feel free to experiment with the dressing as well! While balsamic glaze works beautifully with this combination, a citrus vinaigrette can also highlight the salad's freshness. Combining olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a bright acidic contrast that complements both the strawberries and burrata perfectly.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to preparing the salad!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad:
Roast the Strawberries
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved strawberries with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Salad Base
While the strawberries are roasting, place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl. This will be the foundation of your salad.
Assemble the Salad
Once the strawberries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, top the mixed greens with the roasted strawberries and the burrata cheese.
Drizzle with Glaze
Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the top and garnishing with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Your Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of balsamic glaze according to your taste preference.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you're preparing this salad for a gathering, some elements can be made ahead of time. The strawberries can be roasted up to a day in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the salad just before mealtime to maintain the greens' crispness and prevent wilting.
The mixed greens should also be washed and dried ahead of time. Store them in a salad spinner or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel in the fridge to keep them fresh. Avoid dressing the salad until right before serving to keep the greens vibrant and crunchy.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a beautiful centerpiece for summer gatherings and works well as a light main course or an impressive side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, add some quinoa or farro to provide additional protein and texture.
When serving, consider using a large platter to display the ingredients artfully. Arrange the greens first, top with an aesthetically pleasing layout of roasted strawberries, and then tear the burrata into generous pieces on top. Drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern for a professional touch—this not only enhances presentation but also ensures that every bite has that necessary balance of flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes! This salad is just as delicious with grilled peaches or figs.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the greens may wilt.
→ Is this salad vegan?
No, the burrata cheese is not vegan, but you can substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
→ What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a buffet spread.
Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad
I absolutely adore this Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad! The combination of juicy roasted strawberries with creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. As someone who loves light yet flavorful meals, this salad offers the perfect blend of sweetness and savory notes. The dressing is light and refreshing, making it a fantastic dish for any occasion. Whether served at a picnic or a dinner party, this salad never fails to impress. Trust me, it's a game changer for your summer gatherings!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved strawberries with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
While the strawberries are roasting, place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl. This will be the foundation of your salad.
Once the strawberries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, top the mixed greens with the roasted strawberries and the burrata cheese.
Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the top and garnishing with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of balsamic glaze according to your taste preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 8g