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Prosciutto Strawberry Burrata Salad with Balsamic Maple Dressing has become my go-to dish whenever I want to wow friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The juicy strawberries pair perfectly with silky burrata and salty prosciutto. Each forkful brings a burst of summer thanks to the sweet tangy dressing that ties everything together.
When I first whipped this up on a whim before guests arrived it disappeared in minutes and now it is requested for every summer gathering in my house
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: provide a juicy pop of sweetness look for berries that are bright red with no white tips
- Burrata cheese: brings a rich creamy texture choose balls that feel soft and heavy for their size
- Prosciutto: adds a savory melt-in-your-mouth saltiness buy freshly sliced if possible for the best flavor
- Mixed greens: like arugula and spinach add freshness and color go for crisp bright leaves
- Balsamic vinegar: gives the dressing its tangy depth aged varieties offer more richness
- Pure maple syrup: sweetens the vinaigrette with complexity reach for real maple not imitation
- Extra virgin olive oil: balances and emulsifies the dressing use a quality oil for silkiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries:
- Wash your berries thoroughly and pat them dry Slice into even pieces so each bite gets a little sweetness
- Tear the burrata:
- Gently tear or cut the burrata into small bite-size chunks The creaminess will help coat the greens later
- Build the salad base:
- In a large bowl or serving platter layer your mixed greens evenly This creates the foundation for the toppings
- Add the strawberries and prosciutto:
- Gently fold in sliced strawberries and ribbons of prosciutto Try to spread them evenly without crushing the ingredients
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together balsamic vinegar pure maple syrup and extra virgin olive oil until it thickens and becomes glossy Taste and adjust for sweetness or acidity
- Dress and toss the salad:
- Right before serving drizzle your dressing evenly over the salad Then toss very gently so the delicate cheese and greens stay intact
- Serve with style:
- Portion onto plates or arrange on a large platter letting the colorful toppings shine
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Burrata has always been my secret weapon for quick elegant salads It is so decadent and pairs well with nearly every fruit My family loves when I add it to anything from tomato salads to this sweet prosciutto combo
Storage Tips
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but if you have leftovers cover tightly and refrigerate for up to one day Keep the dressing separate as much as possible to prevent soggy greens The strawberries will start to soften but the flavors will remain delicious
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping goat cheese for burrata if you prefer a tangy taste or use feta for a salty crumbly finish
If prosciutto is hard to find thinly sliced smoked turkey or ham makes a nice substitute
Maple syrup brings distinct flavor but feel free to use honey for a different kind of sweetness
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch with toasted sourdough or as a vibrant starter before a pasta dish For a bigger spread pair with white wine spritzers or sparkling water with lemon
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Cultural Historical Context
This salad celebrates Italian flavors through ingredients like burrata and prosciutto with a playful twist from maple syrup Strawberry and balsamic is a classic Italian pairing often enjoyed in summer markets and home kitchens across the country
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute another cheese for burrata?
Yes, you can use fresh mozzarella or soft goat cheese for a similar creamy texture if burrata is unavailable.
- → What greens work best with this combination?
Arugula and spinach complement the flavors nicely, but mixed greens or baby lettuces also work well.
- → How far in advance can I prepare the salad?
You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but combine and dress just before serving for best results.
- → Is there an alternative to prosciutto?
Serrano ham, speck, or even thinly sliced smoked turkey can replace prosciutto depending on your preference.
- → What pairs well with this salad for a meal?
A crisp white wine, rustic bread, or a light pasta work beautifully alongside this flavorful salad.