Piled on top of crispy crackers, this summery burrata is a party in your mouth! Sweet peaches, salty prosciutto, and roasted tomatoes nestled in with gooey cheese and fresh basil? Yes, please.

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Burrata Caprese with Peach and Prosciutto: Your Ultimate Summer Salad Experience

As the warmth of summer embraces us, there’s a distinct pleasure in slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and indulging in meals that reflect the season’s vibrancy. For me, these idyllic days often mean winding down in the backyard with a refreshing glass of wine, observing my daughter and our playful dog revel in the green grass. Such moments of serene family time are perfectly complemented by food that embodies an effortless elegance – something fresh, light, and utterly delicious.

This is where the magic of Italian-inspired cuisine truly shines. It’s a culinary philosophy rooted in the belief that the finest dishes stem from the highest quality ingredients, prepared with minimal fuss yet delivering maximum flavor. The Burrata Caprese Salad with Peach and Prosciutto is a perfect testament to this principle. It transforms simple weekend afternoons into gourmet experiences and makes entertaining a breeze, all while celebrating the bounty of summer produce.

Embracing the Italian Way: Simplicity and Quality

The essence of Italian cooking lies in its reverence for authentic, fresh ingredients and the art of combining them in ways that allow their inherent goodness to shine. This philosophy is beautifully exemplified by the Burrata Caprese. It’s a dish that feels sophisticated yet is remarkably easy to assemble, making it ideal for both grand celebrations and intimate weeknight dinners. It captures the true spirit of summertime “cooking” – minimal time in the kitchen, maximum enjoyment at the table.

Imagine a generous platter adorned with creamy burrata, ripe peaches, delicate prosciutto, and tender roasted tomatoes, all nestled on a bed of peppery arugula. Each component is a star in its own right, but together, they create a harmonious medley of sweet, salty, and savory notes that dance on your palate. A generous drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil and tangy balsamic vinegar ties everything together, transforming the salad into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. It’s a dish that truly is simple, yet undeniably scrumptious.

The Star of the Show: Selecting Your Burrata

At the heart of this extraordinary salad lies burrata, a cheese that elevates the entire experience. Often described as mozzarella’s creamier, more luxurious cousin, burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from cow or buffalo milk. Its distinctive feature is a firm outer shell of mozzarella encasing a rich, creamy interior of stracciatella (shreds of mozzarella) and fresh cream. The moment you gently break into a burrata ball, its luscious, molten center spills out, creating a natural sauce that coats and enriches every accompanying ingredient.

To truly appreciate this dish, investing in the best possible burrata is paramount. When choosing, look for a ball that feels incredibly soft, almost like a water balloon – this indicates a perfectly creamy, yielding interior ready to deliver an explosion of flavor. A standard 8-ounce ball is typically sufficient for 2-3 people as a light meal or 4-5 as a generous appetizer. For larger gatherings, consider two smaller burrata balls for easier serving and presentation. Freshness is key; seek out burrata from a reputable deli or specialty cheese shop to ensure that exquisite, dippable deliciousness.

A Symphony of Seasonal Ingredients

While burrata is the undeniable star, the supporting cast of ingredients plays an equally vital role in creating this salad’s vibrant profile:

Sweet Peaches: The addition of ripe, juicy peaches is what truly sets this Caprese apart. Their natural sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the savory elements, bringing a burst of refreshing juiciness that screams summer. Ensure your peaches are fragrant and tender, as their flavor will be integral to the dish.
Salty Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto offers a delicate, salty counterpoint and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that beautifully complements the creamy burrata and sweet peaches. Opt for a high-quality Italian prosciutto to achieve that perfect balance of savory depth.
Garlic Roasted Tomatoes: Roasting cherry tomatoes with garlic is a game-changer. The heat intensifies their sweetness, deepens their umami, and infuses them with a rich, aromatic garlic flavor. These tender, bursting tomatoes provide warmth and an irresistible depth that rounds out the entire salad.
Fresh Basil: A cornerstone of Italian cuisine, fresh basil is non-negotiable. Its vibrant, anise-like aroma and peppery-sweet flavor instantly transport you to a sun-drenched Italian garden. Whether plucked fresh or store-bought, generous basil leaves are essential for tying all the flavors together.
Peppery Arugula: A bed of crisp baby arugula provides a subtly bitter and peppery foundation, offering a refreshing textural contrast to the soft burrata and tender components. It also acts as a perfect sponge, soaking up every last drop of the delicious dressing.
Premium Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: These aren’t just dressings; they are crucial flavor enhancers. A high-quality extra virgin olive oil lends a fruity, sometimes grassy richness, while a good balsamic vinegar (or a thicker balsamic glaze) adds a complex tang and sweetness. They bind the flavors, creating a luscious “sauce” that you’ll want to savor long after the main ingredients are gone.

The Art of Assembly: Crafting Your Caprese

Creating this Burrata Caprese is an intuitive and enjoyable process. The key is to arrange the ingredients artfully, ensuring each element is beautifully presented and easily accessible for a perfect bite:

Prepare the Roasted Elements: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). On a large, parchment-lined baking sheet, combine the cherry tomatoes and cubed peaches with minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to coat, then roast for approximately 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, and the peaches slightly caramelize. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Build the Arugula Nest: On your chosen serving platter or in a large, shallow bowl, arrange the baby arugula to form a vibrant green base. This creates a fluffy ‘nest’ for your burrata and provides an essential peppery crunch.
Position the Burrata: Carefully drain any excess water from your burrata ball(s). Gently place the burrata in the center of the arugula nest. The anticipation of cutting into its creamy core is part of the pleasure!
Layer the Flavors: Artfully scatter the roasted tomatoes and peaches around and over the burrata. Drape the thinly sliced prosciutto among the other ingredients, allowing its delicate folds to add visual appeal and texture.
The Finishing Touches: Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and the balsamic vinegar generously over the entire salad. The liquids will slowly seep into the arugula, creating a flavorful dressing. Finally, scatter a generous handful of fresh basil leaves over the top. Season with additional kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, enhancing all the bright, fresh flavors.

Serving Your Summertime Delight

This Burrata Caprese with Peach and Prosciutto is incredibly versatile and shines in various settings. It makes for a sensational appetizer that’s sure to impress guests, a light yet satisfying lunch, or a luxurious side dish. For a truly complete experience, serve it with slices of lightly toasted or grilled artisan bread. The crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy burrata, the flavorful roasted vegetables, and the delicious, oil- and balsamic-soaked arugula, ensuring no drop of flavor goes to waste.

To complement the fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad, consider pairing it with a crisp, dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Rosé. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water infused with lemon and mint offers a refreshing counterpoint. The goal is to enhance the delicate notes of the dish without overpowering them, creating a truly harmonious dining experience perfect for a warm summer day.

Creative Variations and Customizations

While the recipe above offers a perfect classic, this Burrata Caprese is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what’s in season:

Explore Other Fruits: In late summer or early fall, swap peaches for fresh, ripe figs for a different kind of sweetness. Melon chunks can also offer a refreshing twist.
Add a Crunchy Texture: Toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or even slivered almonds can introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor dimension.
Herbaceous Twists: Beyond basil, a scattering of fresh mint can add an even brighter, cooler note. A tiny bit of fresh oregano can deepen the savory Italian essence.
A Hint of Heat: For those who enjoy a subtle kick, a tiny sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the roasted tomatoes can add a pleasant warmth.
Additional Vegetables: Grilled zucchini ribbons, thinly sliced cucumbers, or even blanched asparagus tips can make excellent additions, adding more texture and freshness.
Alternative Cured Meats: If prosciutto is unavailable, high-quality serrano ham or even crispy pancetta bits can be used, though prosciutto’s delicate texture is particularly well-suited to this dish.

A Delightful and Health-Conscious Choice

Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this Burrata Caprese salad offers numerous nutritional benefits. It’s packed with fresh, antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, providing essential vitamins and minerals. The healthy monounsaturated fats from extra virgin olive oil contribute to heart health, while the burrata and prosciutto provide a good source of protein. It truly is a balanced, light, and nourishing meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and invigorated, without any guilt.

Embrace the vibrant, fresh flavors of summer with this effortlessly elegant Burrata Caprese with Peach and Prosciutto. It’s a delightful testament to the fact that the most memorable and satisfying meals are often the simplest, requiring only the finest ingredients and a touch of culinary appreciation. Enjoy every exquisite mouthful, celebrating the joy of good food and cherished company!

Pin Recipe

Burrata Caprese Salad with Peach and Prosciutto

Yield:
2 servings

Ingredients

3 cups cherry tomatoes
1 medium peach, cut into cubes
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
4 cups baby arugula
1 8 oz. ball fresh burrata mozzarella
1/4 lb. thinly sliced prosciutto
2 tsp. balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

For serving, optional:

1 Toasted/grilled artisan bread loaf, sliced

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
On a large, lined baking sheet, toss the cherry tomatoes and cubed peaches with minced garlic, 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Arrange the baby arugula on top of a large serving platter or in a shallow bowl to form a nest.
Carefully drain any water from the burrata. Place the burrata ball in the center of the arugula. Artfully scatter the roasted tomatoes and peaches, prosciutto slices, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil leaves over and around the burrata. Season with additional kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately with lightly toasted or grilled artisan bread slices, perfect for scooping up all the delicious ingredients and creamy burrata.

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