Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a light and refreshing dish, and Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad fits the bill beautifully. This salad bursts with vibrant flavors from fresh produce, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet peaches, juicy tomatoes, and creamy burrata creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: The blend of tomatoes, peaches, and herbs brings a refreshing taste that screams summer.
• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, this salad is easy to throw together for any occasion.
• Versatile Pairing: It complements grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching dish perfect for entertaining.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes preparation simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jar for vinaigrette
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Jar for vinaigrette: Using a jar allows you to easily mix and store your dressing with minimal mess.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space to toss your ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board offers a safe surface while chopping your ingredients.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic or chicken 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
– 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)

How to Make Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

• In a glass jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar, honey, shallot, garlic, lemon zest, basil, oregano, dill, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Secure the lid and shake until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 2: Toss the Fruits

• In a large mixing bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, peaches, and cherries.
• Pour about one-third of the vinaigrette over the fruits. Toss gently to coat them evenly.
• Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or refrigerate it for up to four hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• On a serving platter or individual plates, break apart the burrata cheese into pieces around the fruit mixture.
• Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette.
• Top with toasted pumpkin seeds and additional fresh herbs for garnish. Serve alongside grilled or toasted bread.

Enjoy your beautiful Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad, perfect for savoring summer flavors!

How to Serve Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is a vibrant dish that shines in summer. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions as an appetizer before the main course. The freshness will awaken the palate.

With Grilled Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of grilled or toasted bread. This adds a delightful crunch and makes for a satisfying bite.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens like arugula or spinach. This adds extra nutrients and enhances the presentation.

As a Picnic Dish

• Pack this salad for your next picnic. Its fresh flavors and colorful ingredients make it an ideal outdoor meal option.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare individual servings in mason jars for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Layer the dressing at the bottom to keep everything fresh until serving.

How to Perfect Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

Making this salad truly shine involves some simple techniques that elevate its flavors.

• Use ripe fruits: Choose ripe tomatoes and peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness. This will enhance the overall taste of the salad.

• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit for 15 minutes at room temperature or chilling it in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs based on your preference or what you have available; fresh basil, mint, or parsley can add unique flavors.

• Adjust vinaigrette: Taste and customize your vinaigrette by adjusting honey levels or vinegar types to suit your preference.

• Serve at room temperature: For the best taste, serve burrata cheese at room temperature so its creamy texture complements the salad perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

This salad pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its summer vibe while providing balanced nutrition.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender adds smoky flavor and texture.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon offers a refreshing contrast while being filling.
3. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs provides a nutty flavor that complements the salad.
4. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add protein and texture to your meal.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make for a hearty yet healthy side.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed with olive oil offer a low-carb option that pairs well with the salad.
7. Caprese Skewers: Mini skewers of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide complementary flavors.
8. Fresh Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits keeps things light and refreshing alongside your vibrant salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad can be easy, but small errors can affect the flavor and presentation. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using subpar tomatoes or peaches can ruin the dish. Choose fresh, ripe produce for the best flavor.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Not letting ingredients rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a bit enhances flavors. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate your salad’s taste. Don’t skip them; use a variety for depth of flavor.
• Using cold burrata: Serving burrata straight from the fridge can dull its creamy texture. Allow it to come to room temperature before adding it to the salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Not recommended for freezing. The texture of fresh ingredients may change after thawing.

Reheating Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently without overcooking.
• Microwave: Use in short intervals on low power; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm briefly in a pan over low heat; stir gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about preparing a Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad:

Can I use other fruits in my Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or plums for a unique twist.

What is the best way to serve Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature on a platter with crusty bread for dipping.

How do I choose ripe peaches for my Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad?

Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet aroma.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare most components ahead but wait to add the burrata until just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

The Tomato, Peach, and Burrata Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with different herbs or fruits according to your taste. Give this refreshing salad a try—you won’t regret it!