Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad

The Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a celebration of seasonal simplicity. Juicy cherry tomatoes soak in a herbaceous blend of garlic, basil, olive oil, and vinegar, bursting with sweet acidity and aromatic depth. A generous mound of creamy burrata adds lusciousness, while a final drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together with sweet tang. This dish is a perfect example of how just a few fresh ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s elegant enough for entertaining, yet quick enough to throw together for a weeknight treat. Serve it with crusty bread to scoop up the flavorful marinade and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy dish right from your own kitchen.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup finely diced red onion
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vinegar (red wine, balsamic, or white wine)
10 oz burrata cheese
Olive oil, for drizzling
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions:

Slice the grape or cherry tomatoes in half lengthwise and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the red onion, chopped basil, salt, pepper, olive oil, minced garlic, and vinegar. Stir to combine.
Let the tomato mixture marinate for at least 3 hours (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor). Bring to room temperature before serving if chilled overnight.
Arrange the marinated tomatoes on a serving platter.
Tear the burrata and arrange it on top or around the tomatoes.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Garnish with whole fresh basil leaves and serve immediately, optionally with crusty bread.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes (plus marination time)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Fresh Classic: The Origins of Tomato and Burrata Salad

The pairing of tomatoes and cheese is a beloved cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, and the Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad is a modern evolution of that tradition. Its roots trace back to Italy, where the classic Caprese salad—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—has long been a staple on summer tables. However, burrata, a luxurious fresh cheese originating from Puglia in Southern Italy, elevates this traditional combination to new heights.

Burrata, which means “buttered” in Italian, is made from cow’s milk and has a soft, creamy interior that spills out when cut open. This luxurious texture contrasts beautifully with the bright acidity and firmness of marinated tomatoes, making each bite an explosion of complementary flavors and textures. This dish not only honors Italian culinary heritage but brings it into the spotlight of modern gourmet dining.

Why This Salad Stands Out

This salad isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It captures the essence of summer on a plate: juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, rich burrata, and the sweet tang of balsamic glaze. Its simplicity is its strength. With minimal ingredients and effort, you get a visually stunning, restaurant-quality salad that works as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.

The real secret? Marinating the tomatoes. While most Caprese-style salads rely on raw tomato flavor, marination deepens the taste, allowing garlic, vinegar, and fresh herbs to penetrate the fruit and amplify its natural sweetness. When paired with burrata’s creamy richness and the umami-rich balsamic glaze, it creates layers of flavor you don’t expect from such a quick recipe.

Health Benefits That Don’t Compromise Flavor

One of the reasons this recipe continues to gain popularity is its rare combination of indulgence and nutrition. Here’s why:

Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. They’re also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.
Basil contains essential oils with antibacterial properties and is rich in vitamin K, iron, and antioxidants.
Garlic and red onion add more than just flavor; they boost immune health and contain compounds that can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Burrata, although rich, is still a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12. Choosing high-quality, fresh burrata ensures better fat composition and flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil is a staple of the Mediterranean diet and loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Balsamic vinegar has polyphenols that promote digestion and may help with blood sugar regulation.

Together, these ingredients make for a dish that feels indulgent but supports a healthy lifestyle.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply looking for a quick weekday meal, this salad fits the bill. Its versatility is unmatched:

For elegant entertaining: Serve it on a long platter with crusty bread, fresh wine, and perhaps a few olives on the side.
As a lunch entrée: Pair with toasted sourdough or focaccia for a meal that’s filling but not heavy.
For a light dinner: Add a glass of crisp white wine or a dry rosé and savor a relaxed, balanced meal.
As a shared appetizer: Place it in the center of the table and let everyone dig in family-style.

And let’s not overlook presentation: with vibrant reds from tomatoes, white from burrata, green from basil, and dark swirls of balsamic glaze, it’s a dish made for Instagram. Visual appeal matters, especially when entertaining or promoting your cooking online.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish Every Time

Though it’s simple, there are a few tips that can take this salad from good to unforgettable:

Use in-season tomatoes. The juicier and more flavorful the tomatoes, the better the result. Cherry and grape tomatoes offer natural sweetness and firm texture that holds up well during marination.
Marinate ahead. Letting the tomato mixture sit for at least three hours allows the flavors to meld. For best results, prepare them the night before.
Serve at room temperature. Burrata should never be served cold—it dulls its creamy texture and flavor. Allow everything to come to room temperature before serving.
Tear, don’t slice the burrata. Cutting burrata with a knife can make it look flat or lifeless. Gently tearing it creates rustic edges and reveals the rich cream inside.
Balance the glaze. Balsamic glaze is naturally sweet, so drizzle lightly. A little goes a long way and brings a beautiful contrast to the saltiness and acidity.

Ingredient Spotlight: Burrata

Burrata is the star of the show in this salad. Often mistaken for mozzarella, it’s actually mozzarella on the outside with a soft, cream-filled center called stracciatella. It has a delicate flavor—mild, milky, and slightly tangy—that beautifully contrasts with the savory, acidic notes of the marinated tomatoes.

When buying burrata, look for small, individually packed portions in liquid brine. They should be eaten within a few days of purchase for the freshest taste. If burrata isn’t available, a high-quality mozzarella di bufala can be used, but expect a firmer texture and less decadence.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly flexible, making it easy to adjust based on availability or preference:

No burrata? Use mozzarella balls or vegan cashew cheese for a dairy-free version.
Vinegar swap: Red wine vinegar brings more punch, while balsamic vinegar (not the glaze) adds deeper sweetness.
Add-ins: Sliced avocado, toasted pine nuts, or arugula can introduce texture and elevate the salad into a meal.
Gluten-free option: Already gluten-free as-is, but always check labels on balsamic glaze and store-bought burrata.

Serving Suggestions: Make It a Meal

Want to round out your menu with this salad at the center? Here are a few perfect pairings:

Main course pairing: Grilled chicken or herbed salmon complement the salad without overwhelming its flavor.
Grain accompaniment: A side of farro or quinoa salad with lemon and herbs will add a hearty component.
Wine match: A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc balances the creaminess of the cheese and cuts through the acidity.

This recipe also makes a fantastic starter in a multi-course Italian meal. Follow it with pasta primavera or risotto, and finish with panna cotta or a fruit tart for a complete, elegant dining experience.

Why You Should Add This Salad to Your Recipe Repertoire

With the rise of mindful eating and focus on simple, seasonal ingredients, this salad checks all the boxes. It’s:

Fast to prepare, yet feels luxurious
Light but filling
Adaptable to seasons and tastes
Visually striking
Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats

Most importantly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even those who aren’t fans of traditional salads tend to fall in love with the texture and richness burrata brings to the table. It’s a gateway dish to gourmet home cooking—effortless, flavorful, and elegant.

Conclusion

The Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of how food can be both simple and spectacular. It proves that with the right ingredients and a little love, even a salad can feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re showcasing it on your website, serving it at a party, or enjoying it quietly on your patio, this dish delivers unforgettable flavor and an authentic Mediterranean vibe every time.