Description
Burrata and Fig Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes
Caption: A show-stopping salad combining creamy burrata, sweet figs, and juicy tomatoes—perfect for special occasions!
Ingredients:
For the salad:
3 balls of fresh burrata cheese
6-8 fresh figs, quartered
1 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup blackberries
For the dressing:
3 tbsp basil pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
For garnish:
Edible flowers
Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the ingredients:
Quarter the fresh figs and halve the cherry tomatoes. Arrange them on a large serving plate with the blackberries.
Add the burrata:
Place the burrata balls evenly across the salad. Tear them slightly for a rustic look.
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth.
Drizzle the dressing:
Generously drizzle the pesto dressing over the burrata, figs, and tomatoes.
Garnish and serve:
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat, and decorate with edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Serve immediately with crusty bread or as a side dish.
This burrata and fig salad is a visual masterpiece and a flavor-packed dish, balancing creamy, sweet, and tangy elements for a delightful dining experience.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Produce: Gently wash the figs, tomatoes, and blackberries. Pat them dry. Quarter the figs and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Arrange the Base: On a large, flat platter, artfully scatter the figs, tomatoes, and blackberries. Create pockets of space for the burrata.
3. Place the Burrata: Remove the burrata balls from their liquid and pat dry. Place them evenly on the platter. Using your fingers, gently tear each ball open slightly to expose the creamy stracciatella center.
4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the basil pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk vigorously until the oil is fully emulsified into the pesto, creating a smooth, pourable dressing.
5. Dress and Garnish: Drizzle the dressing generously over the entire salad, ensuring some lands directly on the torn burrata. Finish with a pinch of chili flakes (if using) and delicate edible flowers.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served immediately after assembling. Present it as a luxurious starter or a light main course. Accompany it with warm, crusty bread or grilled baguette slices to soak up the creamy cheese and dressing. For a fuller meal, pair it with simply grilled chicken, fish, or prosciutto-wrapped melon.
How-to Summary
Quarter figs and halve tomatoes. Arrange them on a platter with blackberries. Add whole burrata balls, tearing them slightly. Whisk pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice for the dressing. Drizzle over the salad and garnish with chili flakes and edible flowers. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Prep ingredients separately, but assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain the burrata’s fresh texture.
What can I use if I can’t find fresh figs? Thinly sliced ripe peaches, nectarines, or even high-quality fig jam drizzled around the plate are excellent substitutes.
Is there a substitute for burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) can be used, though you’ll miss the signature creamy center. A high-quality whole-milk ricotta or a creamy goat cheese are other options.
How do I pick the best burrata? Look for a sell-by date that’s several days away. The outer pouch should be firm and the cheese should feel heavy for its size, indicating plenty of fresh cream inside.
Can I use a different dressing? Absolutely. A balsamic glaze reduction, a honey-lemon vinaigrette, or a simple high-quality extra virgin olive oil with flaky sea salt also pair beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using room-temperature burrata straight from the fridge. Let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal creaminess.
- Over-handling the burrata. A gentle tear is better than slicing, which can cause the cream to spill out uncontrollably.
- Adding salt to the salad before tasting. Burrata, pesto, and many garnishes are already seasoned.
- Dressing the salad too early, which wilts the delicate ingredients and causes the tomatoes to release too much water.
Conclusion
This Burrata and Fig Salad is more than a recipe—it’s an effortless expression of seasonal luxury. By combining a few pristine ingredients with simple technique, you create a dish that delights the senses. The key lies in sourcing quality components and embracing the minimal, elegant assembly. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight meal, this salad proves that sometimes the most stunning creations are also the simplest to execute.