Tired of bland, uninspired salads that leave you reaching for a snack an hour later? This Best Burrata and Oven Roasted Tomato Salad transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth burrata paired with sweet, caramelized oven-roasted tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and memorable.
As someone who has spent years perfecting Mediterranean-inspired recipes, I’ve discovered that the magic lies in quality ingredients and simple preparation techniques that allow natural flavors to shine. This burrata and roasted tomato combination has become my signature dish for everything from casual family dinners to sophisticated dinner parties.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect burrata, roasting tomatoes to sweet perfection, and assembling a salad that looks as beautiful as it tastes. You’ll also find helpful tips on ingredient substitutions, serving suggestions, and make-ahead options for busy schedules.
Why This Burrata and Oven Roasted Tomato Salad Works
- Uses easy-to-find fresh ingredients that transform magically when combined
- Requires minimal hands-on preparation while roasting creates intense flavor
- Perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes
- Versatile as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course
- Impressive presentation with minimal effort
- Adaptable for different seasons and dietary preferences
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Burrata and Tomato Salad
Best Tomatoes for Roasting
The foundation of this exceptional salad lies in properly roasted tomatoes. Cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully because their natural sweetness intensifies during roasting. Look for tomatoes that are bright red, firm but slightly yielding to pressure, and fragrant at the stem. During peak summer, heirloom cherry tomato varieties like Sun Gold or Black Cherry add wonderful color variation and flavor complexity.
Selecting Perfect Burrata
Burrata is the star of this dish—a fresh Italian cheese with a mozzarella exterior and a creamy, soft interior. When shopping for burrata, look for:
- Cheese that feels soft but not mushy
- Packaging with clear, fresh-looking liquid
- A mild, milky aroma (never sour)
- Cheese made from pasteurized milk if serving to pregnant women or those with compromised immune systems
Fresh Herbs and Greens
For maximum flavor impact, choose from these fresh herbs:
- Basil (traditional and perfect complement)
- Mint (adds unexpected freshness)
- Oregano (for more intense Mediterranean notes)
- Arugula (peppery base that stands up to the creamy cheese)
Ingredients & Prep for Burrata and Roasted Tomato Salad
Roasted Tomato Essentials
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian blend)
Fresh Components
- 8 ounces (2 balls) fresh burrata
- 2 cups arugula or mixed greens
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Looking for more delicious Mediterranean-inspired recipes? Check out my vegetable beef soup recipe that’s perfect for cozy dinners!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Burrata and Tomato Salad
Pre-Cooking Prep for Burrata Salad
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and thoroughly dry tomatoes (moisture prevents proper caramelization).
- Slice larger cherry tomatoes in half, leaving smaller ones whole for texture variety.
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Roasting Tomatoes for Burrata Salad
- In a large bowl, toss tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sliced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- Spread the tomato mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tomatoes are soft, slightly caramelized, and beginning to burst.
- Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature (about 15 minutes).
Assembly of Burrata Tomato Salad
- Arrange arugula or mixed greens on a serving platter.
- Gently place roasted tomatoes with their flavorful juices over the greens.
- Tear or cut burrata into large pieces and arrange over the tomatoes.
- Drizzle with prepared dressing.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts over the top.
- Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Dressing for Burrata Salad
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use immediately or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Pro Tips for Perfect Burrata and Roasted Tomato Salad
Temperature Considerations for Burrata Salad
- Remove burrata from refrigerator 20-30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture
- Serve the salad while tomatoes are still slightly warm for temperature contrast with the cool cheese
- If making ahead, roast tomatoes in advance but assemble just before serving
Textural Elements for Burrata Salad
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden to enhance their nutty flavor
- Consider adding toasted bread cubes (croutons) for additional crunch
- A sprinkle of crispy fried capers provides bursts of salty goodness
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Burrata Salad
- Roasted tomatoes can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated
- Store burrata in its original liquid until ready to use
- This salad is best enjoyed immediately after assembly as burrata loses its magical texture over time
For amazing umami flavors that pair beautifully with this salad, explore my collection of Japanese miso mushroom recipes that will elevate your meal!
Flavor Variations for Burrata and Tomato Salad
Seasonal Twists for Burrata Salad
- Summer: Add sliced peaches or nectarines for sweet contrast
- Fall: Include roasted butternut squash cubes and sage leaves
- Winter: Incorporate blood oranges and fennel slices
- Spring: Feature blanched asparagus tips and fresh peas
Regional Italian Variations for Burrata Salad
- Sicilian: Add capers, olives, and toasted breadcrumbs
- Tuscan: Include white beans and rosemary
- Pugliese: Feature crushed fava beans and wild chicory
Dietary Adaptations for Burrata Salad
| Dietary Need | Substitution | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Avocado instead of burrata | Less creamy, but adds healthy fats |
| Vegan | Cashew cheese or tofu “ricotta” | Different texture but still creamy |
| Gluten-Free | Already compliant – just ensure vinegar is GF | No change needed |
| Nut-Free | Substitute toasted pumpkin seeds for pine nuts | Slightly earthy flavor |
| Low-Carb | Reduce balsamic and honey | Less sweetness, more savory profile |
Serving Suggestions for Burrata and Roasted Tomato Salad
This versatile salad works beautifully in multiple serving scenarios:
- As an appetizer: Serve with toasted sourdough or crusty baguette slices
- As a light main course: Increase portion sizes and add extra greens
- As part of a mezze spread: Pair with hummus, olives, and other Mediterranean small plates
- As a side dish: Accompanies grilled vegetables or fish perfectly
For a complete summer meal, serve this salad alongside my crowd-pleasing Mexican Street Corn for a fusion of Mediterranean and Latin flavors!
Beverage pairings that complement the flavors:
- Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosé wine for a summer pairing
- Sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option
- Light iced tea infused with mint or basil
I love sharing my culinary creations on Pinterest where you’ll find beautiful food photography and more inspiring recipe ideas for your next gathering!
FAQs About Burrata and Tomato Salad
Can I make this burrata salad in advance?
You can roast the tomatoes up to 2 days ahead and store them in the refrigerator. However, I recommend assembling the salad just before serving, as burrata is best enjoyed fresh and loses its delightful texture over time.
What if I can’t find burrata cheese?
Fresh mozzarella makes a good substitute, though it won’t have the creamy center. You could also try a combination of mozzarella and a small dollop of ricotta to mimic burrata’s texture.
How long will leftover burrata salad keep?
This salad is best enjoyed immediately after assembly. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but the texture of the burrata and greens will deteriorate.
Can I roast the tomatoes on the grill instead of in the oven?
Absolutely! Use a grill-safe pan or aluminum foil pouch and cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until tomatoes are soft and beginning to burst.
Is this burrata salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish. It contains dairy (burrata cheese) but no meat products.
For another incredible Mediterranean-inspired recipe, check out my Southern Salmon Patties that perfectly complement this salad for a complete meal!
Conclusion
This Best Burrata and Oven Roasted Tomato Salad elevates simple ingredients to create a memorable dish that balances creamy, sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes in perfect harmony. The magic happens when the warm, caramelized tomatoes meet the cool, creamy burrata, creating a temperature and texture contrast that makes this salad truly exceptional.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, contributing to a potluck, or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The combination of visual appeal, complex flavors, and satisfying textures makes it a standout dish for any occasion.
Try this recipe today and join thousands of home cooks who have discovered the simple joy of perfectly roasted tomatoes paired with cloud-like burrata cheese. Your taste buds will thank you!