Introduction to Watermelon Burrata Salad
Ah, summer! It’s the season when our cravings shift to something light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. This is where my favorite dish, Watermelon Burrata Salad, comes into play. I’ve found that between juggling work, family, and everything in between, this salad stands as a beautiful, vibrant solution for a busy day. It’s not just quick to prepare but also impresses anyone lucky enough to share a meal with you. Trust me, there’s something magical about that creamy burrata paired with sweet watermelon that makes every bite a joyful celebration of summer.
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Burrata Salad
This Watermelon Burrata Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings pure joy to your summer table. It’s effortlessly easy to whip up, taking just 15 minutes, making it a perfect solution for our hectic lives. The taste? Oh, it’s simply divine! The sweetness of the watermelon complements the creaminess of burrata beautifully. It’s light yet satisfying, ensuring you and your loved ones savor those summer moments to the fullest.
Ingredients for Watermelon Burrata Salad
Let’s dive into the vibrant ingredients that make this Watermelon Burrata Salad a summer sensation. Each element plays its part in creating that symphony of flavors. You’re going to love how simple they are!
- Baby Arugula: This peppery green adds a delightful bite and freshness to the salad.
- Persian Cucumber: Crunchy and refreshing, these mini cucumbers bring another layer of texture. They’re fun to eat too!
- Fresh Basil: Aromatic and slightly sweet, basil is a classic pairing with watermelon. Tear it into strips to release more flavor.
- Seedless Watermelon: The star of this dish! Sweet, juicy bites of watermelon provide the perfect pop. Make sure to choose one that’s ripe for maximum sweetness.
- Roasted Hazelnuts: These add a nutty crunch, elevating the salad with each bite. You can toast them for a deeper flavor.
- Burrata: Oh, the creaminess! This Italian cheese melts deliciously, making it the heart of the dish. You can use mozzarella if burrata is hard to find.
- Kosher Salt and Pepper: A sprinkle enhances all the flavors. Use good quality salt for the best taste.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: This dressing ties everything together with its tangy sweetness. You can whip it up quickly at home or grab a bottle from your local store.
For exact measurements of each ingredient, be sure to check the bottom of the article where they’re listed for printing. This way, you’re set to create this stunning salad with ease!
How to Make Watermelon Burrata Salad
Now that we have all our fresh ingredients, let’s get started on crafting this beautiful Watermelon Burrata Salad. Each step is simple, making this a fuss-free experience that results in something delicious and gorgeous!
Making the Balsamic Vinaigrette
This dressing is the key to making your salad sing! In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, diced shallot, garlic powder, and dijon mustard. Next, add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, along with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Seal the jar and shake it vigorously until everything blends into a smooth, emulsified mixture.
Don’t skip this step! The vinaigrette brings a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the watermelon perfectly. I always taste it before serving to ensure it hits that perfect balance of flavors.
Assembling the Salad
Now comes the fun part – layering everything together! Begin by laying the baby arugula as a bed on a large serving plate. This makes a lovely base and adds a peppery flavor. Then, gracefully arrange the thinly sliced Persian cucumber, roughly torn basil leaves, and diced watermelon cubes on top. Look at those colors pop!
For a delightful crunch, sprinkle the chopped roasted hazelnuts over the top. Then, the pièce de résistance: place the creamy burrata right in the center of the salad! It should look inviting and colorful, almost like a summer garden on your plate.
Serving the Salad
Before serving, lightly sprinkle the salad with a touch of salt and pepper, especially on the burrata. This step enhances its flavor. Don’t forget to give your vinaigrette another good shake before drizzling it generously over your masterpiece!
Serve your Watermelon Burrata Salad immediately for the best taste. The fresh ingredients shine brightest when enjoyed right away. Watching your family dig into this salad is one of the simplest joys of cooking.
Tips for Success
- Choose a ripe watermelon for maximum sweetness; it should feel heavy for its size.
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to make assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
- Feel free to toast your hazelnuts for an added crunch; it’s worth the extra minute!
- Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing bite on those hot summer days.
- Experiment with different herbs like mint for a fresh twist on flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping your ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes cutting watermelon and cucumbers a breeze.
- Jar with Lid: Perfect for shaking up your balsamic vinaigrette. A small mason jar works wonders!
- Serving Plate: A large plate to beautifully present your salad masterpiece.
Variations on Watermelon Burrata Salad
- Swap the Cheese: Instead of burrata, try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp makes this salad heartier, perfect for a main dish.
- Go Vegan: Use cashew cream or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.
- Explore Fruits: Substitute blueberries or strawberries for watermelon to switch up the flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick of heat.
- Nuts Galore: Use walnuts or pistachios in place of hazelnuts for a unique crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Watermelon Burrata Salad
- Pair with Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal.
- Fresh Breads: A crusty baguette or focaccia is perfect for mopping up the vinaigrette.
- Refreshing Drinks: Enjoy with a chilled glass of rosé or sparkling water with mint.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a stunning finish.
FAQs about Watermelon Burrata Salad
Can I make Watermelon Burrata Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients like watermelon, cucumber, and hazelnuts beforehand. Just keep the arugula and burrata separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for burrata?
If burrata isn’t available, don’t fret! Mozzarella or even ricotta works beautifully too. They’ll still bring that delightful creamy texture to your Watermelon Burrata Salad.
Is Watermelon Burrata Salad suitable for meal prep?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance. Just store them separately and toss them together whenever you’re ready. That way, you can enjoy a refreshing meal with minimal effort!
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
The beauty of a Watermelon Burrata Salad lies in its versatility! Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for varied flavors and textures. Just think of summer in a bowl!
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Of course! While the balsamic vinaigrette complements the salad wonderfully, a citrus vinaigrette or a honey-lime dressing would add a zesty twist. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Watermelon Burrata Salad is more than just a cooking task; it’s an experience that brings joy to my summer days. The vibrant colors and flavors dance on your palate, making every bite a celebration of the season. I love how simple yet elegant it is, perfect for both casual get-togethers and special occasions. Sharing it with friends and family adds to the happiness, as laughter and delicious food go hand in hand. So go ahead, whip up this salad, and relish the delightful moments it creates around your table!
Print
Watermelon Burrata Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad combining the sweetness of watermelon and creaminess of burrata, perfect for summer.
Ingredients
- 1½–2 tightly packed cups baby arugula about 1½ oz
- 1 Persian (mini) cucumber thinly sliced
- Several leaves fresh basil roughly torn or cut into strips; about 2 tbsp
- 2 cups seedless watermelon diced into ½” cubes; about ¼ watermelon
- ½ ounce roasted hazelnuts roughly chopped; about 2 tbsp
- 6–8 ounce burrata 1-2 balls
- Kosher salt and pepper
- Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon diced shallot
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add balsamic vinegar, shallot, garlic powder, dijon mustard, olive oil, ⅛ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until emulsified. Season to taste and set aside.
- To assemble the salad, spread arugula onto a large serving plate. Arrange cucumber, basil, and watermelon on top.
- Sprinkle all over with hazelnuts, then place burrata on top. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Right before serving, sprinkle salad lightly with salt and pepper, particularly the burrata. Give the dressing another shake before drizzling all over. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe watermelon for the best flavor.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with mint for a different flavor profile.
- The salad is best served fresh, but components can be prepped ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
