Name: Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 small cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber, sliced); 2 large tomatoes (or 5 smaller on the vine tomatoes, cut into wedges); ½ cup kalamata olives (pitted and cut in half); ½ cup fresh herbs (basil and dill coarsely chopped); 8 oz burrata (torn); ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ lemon (juiced and zested); Sea salt (to taste)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and irresistibly creamy, the Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad is exactly what your taste buds need. This delightful salad brings together the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the crisp freshness of cucumbers, and the luxuriously soft texture of burrata cheese, all brightened with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that feels like summer on a plate, perfect for sharing with friends or elevating a simple weeknight meal into something truly special.

Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients make the biggest impact, and this salad is a perfect example. Each element plays a crucial role, whether adding creaminess, crunch, a pop of color, or a burst of tangy brightness.

4 small cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber, sliced): Adds refreshing crunch and a cool contrast to the creamy burrata.
2 large tomatoes (or 5 smaller on-the-vine tomatoes, cut into wedges): Juicy, ripe tomatoes bring vibrant color and natural sweetness.
8 oz burrata (torn): The star of the dish—decadently creamy and soft, giving each bite a dreamy richness.
½ cup kalamata olives (pitted and cut in half): Adds a briny, savory bite that balances the salad’s sweetness.
½ cup fresh herbs (basil and dill coarsely chopped): Offers an aromatic punch and freshness that lifts the entire dish.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Brings silkiness and a fruity depth to the dressing.
½ lemon (juiced and zested): Adds brightness and zesty freshness to wake up all the other flavors.
Sea salt (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient’s natural taste.

How to Make Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by arranging the sliced cucumbers evenly on a large serving platter. The crisp, cool base sets a refreshing tone and forms the perfect bed for the tomatoes and cheese to rest on.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes

Next, scatter the wedges of ripe tomatoes over the cucumbers. Their juicy sweetness and vibrant red will instantly make the salad pop visually and flavor-wise.

Step 3: Incorporate the Burrata and Olives

Tear the burrata gently into bite-sized pieces and distribute it over the tomatoes and cucumbers. Then sprinkle the halved kalamata olives across the salad. The creamy burrata combined with the salty olives adds a delightful contrast that takes this salad to the next level.

Step 4: Dress and Finish

Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl to create a bright, citrusy dressing. Drizzle it generously over the entire salad. Finally, sprinkle flaky sea salt and the chopped fresh herbs on top. These ingredients pull everything together, making each forkful shine with balanced flavors.

How to Serve Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few more torn basil leaves on top adds a final touch of flavor and a beautiful garnish. You can also add a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar for extra depth if you like a bit of sweetness entwining with the creamy burrata.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty toasted bread or slices of grilled baguette to soak up all the luscious dressing. It’s also fantastic alongside grilled chicken or seafood for a light and elegant meal that won’t weigh you down.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, try layering the cucumbers, tomatoes, and burrata in a clear glass bowl for a colorful layered effect. Or, arrange individual portions in small bowls for an intimate dinner party feel. No matter how you serve it, this salad’s rich colors and textures are bound to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the burrata separate if possible to prevent it from absorbing too much moisture and losing its creamy texture. Consume within 1-2 days for the best freshness.

Freezing

Since burrata and fresh tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of both the cheese and vegetables will suffer, so it’s definitely a dish to savor immediately.

Reheating

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as burrata melts and tomatoes become mushy, which diminishes the delightful contrast of textures that make this salad so special.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata?

While burrata’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it perfect here, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as alternatives, though the salad won’t have quite the same indulgent creaminess.

What type of tomatoes are best for this salad?

Look for ripe, juicy tomatoes with good flavor. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes work beautifully, but large beefsteak tomatoes sliced into wedges also make a great choice.

How do I keep the cucumbers from becoming soggy?

Slice cucumbers just before assembling the salad and serve shortly after. If you want to prep ahead, store the sliced cucumbers separately in a paper towel-lined container to absorb excess moisture.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Absolutely! Roasted red peppers, thinly sliced red onions, or even avocado can add delicious flavor and texture twists. Just be mindful to maintain balance so the burrata remains the star.

Is this salad gluten-free and vegetarian?

Yes, the Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad is naturally gluten-free and a fantastic vegetarian option. It’s fresh, wholesome, and full of plant-based goodness.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together the best of fresh produce and creamy burrata, the Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad is a dish that delights every sense. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, an elegant starter, or a side to your favorite meal, it’s guaranteed to brighten your table and your mood. Give it a try soon—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly delicious fresh ingredients can be when combined with love and a few simple touches.

Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Fresh Italian Tomato Burrata Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and tangy kalamata olives, all enhanced by a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or side, it’s a celebration of fresh Mediterranean flavors that is quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

4 small cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber, sliced)
2 large tomatoes (or 5 smaller on the vine tomatoes, cut into wedges)
½ cup kalamata olives (pitted and cut in half)
½ cup fresh herbs (basil and dill coarsely chopped)

Dairy

8 oz burrata (torn)

Dressing

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ lemon (juiced and zested)
Sea salt (to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers thinly and arrange them evenly on a large serving platter as the base of your salad.
Add the tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into wedges and scatter them evenly over the cucumbers to add vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
Top with burrata and olives: Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and distribute them across the salad along with the halved kalamata olives for creamy and briny accents.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined to create a light, zesty dressing.
Dress and garnish the salad: Drizzle the lemon-olive oil dressing evenly over the salad, then sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt and fresh chopped basil and dill herbs to enhance the fresh flavors.
Serve: Pair the salad with toasted bread if desired, and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor impact.
If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella can be substituted, though it won’t be as creamy.
Adjust salt levels carefully since kalamata olives are salty.
Fresh herbs like basil and dill are essential for authentic flavor; do not omit.
This salad is best served immediately to prevent the cucumbers and tomatoes from becoming soggy.
To make it vegan, omit burrata and consider adding marinated tofu or avocado slices instead.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Assembling
Cuisine: Italian