Description
1 cup cooked wheat berries
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup arugula or spinach
1 ball of burrata cheese
1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked wheat berries, chopped cranberries, and arugula (or spinach).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper to create the citrus vinaigrette.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
Tear the burrata into pieces and gently place on top of the salad.
Sprinkle with toasted pecans (or walnuts) and crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a slightly chilled salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (for cooking wheat berries)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 2
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Wheat Berries: Rinse 1/2 cup of dry wheat berries. In a saucepan, combine them with 1.5 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender but chewy. Drain any excess water and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Components: While the wheat berries cook, chop the fresh cranberries and toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm (or room temperature) cooked wheat berries, chopped cranberries, and arugula. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss thoroughly to coat.
5. Final Presentation: Transfer the dressed salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Tear the burrata ball into rustic pieces and arrange them over the top. Finish by sprinkling with the toasted nuts and optional crumbled feta.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty salad is a versatile dish. Serve it as a stand-alone vegetarian lunch or as a stunning side dish for a dinner party. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a simple herb-crusted pork loin. For a complete meal, add a slice of crusty sourdough bread to soak up the creamy, citrusy dressing.
How-to Summary
Cook wheat berries until tender. Whisk citrus juices, oil, and honey for the dressing. Toss warm wheat berries with cranberries, greens, and dressing. Top with torn burrata, toasted nuts, and optional feta for a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, tart, and sweet flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different grain? Absolutely. Farro, barley, or even quinoa make excellent substitutes for wheat berries, though cooking times will vary.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, keep components separate. Mix the wheat berries, cranberries, and dressing up to a day ahead. Add the arugula, burrata, and nuts just before serving.
What can I use instead of fresh cranberries? Dried cranberries are a good alternative. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to plump them up, then drain before using.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the arugula will wilt and the burrata will firm up.
Is burrata necessary? While burrata provides a luxurious creamy element, fresh mozzarella or even creamy goat cheese can be used as a substitute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the wheat berries, which turns them mushy; they should have a pleasant, chewy bite. Do not add the delicate arugula to the warm wheat berries too early, as it will wilt excessively. Ensure your citrus vinaigrette is well-whisked and emulsified before adding to prevent a separated, oily dressing. Finally, handle the burrata gently when tearing to preserve its beautiful, creamy center.
Conclusion
This Wheat Berry Salad with Burrata and Cranberries is a celebration of texture and flavor, perfectly balancing hearty grains, tart fruit, creamy cheese, and a bright citrus dressing. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet elegant enough for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master this recipe and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.