Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
We love the twist that roasting strawberries brings to this Burrata Salad—it's a game-changer! The sweet, caramelized flavor of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata cheese and fresh greens, making this salad perfect as a light lunch or fancy appetizer. I find that roasting brings out the strawberries' natural sweetness, and with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil, each bite is simply irresistible. This dish is a delightful way to showcase seasonal produce, and it always impresses guests at gatherings.
When I first tried roasted strawberries in a salad, I was completely blown away by how much it transformed the dish. The roasting process enhances the strawberries' sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile, which contrasts beautifully against the creamy burrata and crunchy greens. This combination is simply delightful, and I can’t recommend it enough!
One little tip I learned is to drizzle the strawberries with a bit of olive oil before roasting—a trick that brings out their natural juices. This salad has quickly become a staple at our dinner parties; it’s elegant and easy to prepare.
Why You'll Love This
- Sweet roasted strawberries paired with creamy burrata for an indulgent experience.
- A vibrant mixture of flavors and textures that elevate any meal.
- Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or casual gatherings.
The Art of Roasting Strawberries
Roasting strawberries transforms their vibrant flavor, enhancing the natural sweetness that makes them so appealing. When roasting, the goal is to achieve a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender. To do this effectively, ensure you have the oven preheated to 400°F (200°C), which helps to achieve that golden, glossy finish in about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they roast, as you want the strawberries to break down slightly but not become mushy.
If you prefer a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a sprinkle of sugar to the strawberries before roasting. This will create a lovely glaze as they cook. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that complements both the strawberries and the burrata. Just a small amount can add a unique twist to your dish.
Perfecting the Salad Base
Using a mix of salad greens adds both texture and visual appeal to your Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad. I recommend a blend of arugula, baby spinach, and frisée for a mix of peppery and mild flavors. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds layers of crunch that contrast beautifully with the creamy burrata. Feel free to adjust the greens based on your preference or what is available in your fridge—cooking is all about adaptability!
To ensure freshness, it’s crucial to wash and dry your greens thoroughly before assembling. Use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture, which can otherwise lead to a soggy salad. If you're making this salad in advance, store the greens separately from the roasted strawberries and burrata to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
When it comes to serving this salad, presentation is vital. Arrange the roasted strawberries in a circular pattern around the burrata for an eye-catching look. Drizzling the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern over the top not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows each bite to be full of flavor. If you have guests, consider serving the salad in individual bowls to create a personal touch.
If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, it’s best to keep the components separated until serving. Roasted strawberries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, while burrata should ideally be consumed the day it's purchased for optimal creaminess. Assembling the salad right before serving ensures that the flavors are at their peak.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad.
Roast the Strawberries
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, toss the halved strawberries with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes until they are soft and caramelized.
Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, place the mixed salad greens. Once the strawberries are roasted, allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the greens.
Add the Burrata
Tear apart the burrata cheese and arrange it on top of the salad. Be generous with the burrata!
Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for garnish. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad as a refreshing meal!
Pro Tips
- For added crunch, consider including some toasted nuts or seeds in the salad. Also, serve this salad immediately after assembling to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.
Ingredient Insights
Burrata cheese is a star ingredient in this salad, known for its soft, creamy center. Unlike mozzarella, which is firmer, burrata adds a luxurious richness to your dish. If burrata isn't available, fresh mozzarella can be used, but you may want to drizzle a bit more olive oil for that creamy texture that burrata naturally provides.
The balsamic vinegar used for roasting strawberries enhances their flavor while providing a slight acidity that balances the richness of the burrata. If you're looking for a low-sugar alternative, try using a splash of lemon juice in place of balsamic vinegar, which will also give a refreshing zing to the strawberries.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to customize this salad by adding nuts such as toasted walnuts or pecans, which add a delightful crunch. A handful of sliced almonds or pine nuts sprinkled over the top will elevate the flavor and add healthy fats to your dish. These additions not only introduce new textures but also enhance the nutritional profile of your salad.
If you're looking to add more protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can easily be incorporated. Marinate your protein of choice in olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of salt and pepper before grilling for an added flavor boost that complements the salad beautifully.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your roasted strawberries seem too watery after baking, it may be due to using overly ripe strawberries. In this case, you can simply roast them for a few more minutes, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and concentrating their flavor. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning and ensure they caramelize perfectly.
When handling burrata, be gentle as it is delicate and can easily tear. If you find yourself with excess liquid from the burrata, pat it gently with a paper towel before adding it to your salad. This helps prevent the greens from becoming soggy while still allowing the rich, creamy essence of the burrata to shine through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries work best, if you have to use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well.
→ How can I make this salad vegan?
You can replace burrata with avocado or a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the salad vegan.
→ What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?
If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can create your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
→ How long will leftovers keep?
It's best to eat the salad fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad
We love the twist that roasting strawberries brings to this Burrata Salad—it's a game-changer! The sweet, caramelized flavor of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata cheese and fresh greens, making this salad perfect as a light lunch or fancy appetizer. I find that roasting brings out the strawberries' natural sweetness, and with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil, each bite is simply irresistible. This dish is a delightful way to showcase seasonal produce, and it always impresses guests at gatherings.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, toss the halved strawberries with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes until they are soft and caramelized.
In a large bowl, place the mixed salad greens. Once the strawberries are roasted, allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the greens.
Tear apart the burrata cheese and arrange it on top of the salad. Be generous with the burrata!
Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for garnish. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added crunch, consider including some toasted nuts or seeds in the salad. Also, serve this salad immediately after assembling to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 8g