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Tomato Peach and Burrata Salad is a beautiful showcase for the freshest summer produce. Juicy tomatoes and ripe peaches mingle in every bite, with creamy burrata melting into the mix for pure bliss. Simple to assemble and easy to love, this salad never fails to impress at family picnics or casual lunches.
I first whipped up this salad for a warm afternoon gathering when my garden was overflowing. It disappeared before I even sat down and I have been making it on repeat ever since.
Ingredients
- Heirloom tomatoes: ripe and colorful varieties bring sweetness and visual appeal pick firm yet fragrant tomatoes for best flavor
- Ripe peaches: choose peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure for ideal juiciness and sweetness
- Fresh burrata cheese: this cheese adds rich creaminess look for balls with smooth outer skin and a bit of softness when pressed
- Fresh basil leaves: hand-picked for classic flavor and aromatic lift best when deep green and not wilted
- Extra virgin olive oil: provides fruity depth cold pressed varieties offer brighter flavor
- Balsamic vinegar: brings out the sweetness in the peaches and tomatoes choose aged balsamic for mellow tang
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper: uplifts the main flavors use flaky sea salt for a little crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Produce:
- Rinse tomatoes and peaches carefully and dry them. Slice both into bite-sized wedges so every forkful has both fruit and tomato. Soft peaches can be sliced along the natural seam to avoid bruising.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Gently place sliced tomatoes and peaches into a large shallow bowl. Toss the mixture by hand to combine the flavors without breaking up delicate pieces.
- Add the Burrata:
- Tear fresh burrata into generous pieces and scatter it over the salad. This way the cheese nestles into the fruit and creates creamy bites in every serving.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the mixture followed by balsamic vinegar. Season generously with salt and plenty of cracked pepper. Toss gently to keep peaches and tomatoes intact.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top just before serving. For maximum aroma tear the leaves by hand rather than slicing.
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Peaches always remind me of summers at my grandparents house where we picked fruit right off the tree. The combination with creamy burrata makes every bite extra special and always brings back those memories for me.
Storage Tips
To keep leftovers fresh store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed within a day because the fruit can become watery over time. If preparing ahead keep the dressing separate and add basil just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant and the greens from wilting.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find burrata fresh mozzarella pearls can work instead though the flavor will be milder. Try nectarines in place of peaches for a firmer bite or use cherry tomatoes if heirloom varieties are not available. A splash of lemon juice can stand in for balsamic vinegar in a pinch and adds bright acidity.
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Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a perfect companion to grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal. For brunch try serving beside an omelet and fresh bread. On its own it is a showstopping starter for any warm weather dinner spread.
Cultural Context
Tomato salads are a summertime staple in Italian cuisine especially when paired with creamy cheeses like mozzarella or burrata. The addition of peaches offers an American twist on tradition that brings a hint of Southern orchard sweetness and elegance to the classic caprese concept.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of tomatoes work best for this salad?
Heirloom tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and variety of colors, but any ripe, flavorful tomato will work well.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella for burrata?
Mozzarella can be used as an alternative, but burrata's creamy interior brings a unique richness to the dish.
- → Should the peaches be peeled before adding?
It's optional—if the skin is thin and tender, keep it on. For thicker skins, peeling may create a smoother texture.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Burrata tastes best when served fresh.
- → Which herbs pair well besides basil?
Fresh mint or tarragon can add an interesting twist, but basil remains the classic choice for this ensemble.
- → Is this salad suitable for make-ahead prep?
You can slice the tomatoes and peaches ahead, but combine with burrata and dress right before serving for best texture.