The first bite of this Watermelon Burrata Salad always brings a smile to my face. Picture this: the sun shining brightly, the warmth of summer all around, and you take a forkful of juicy watermelon paired with the creamy softness of burrata cheese. It’s a delightful explosion of flavor and texture that perfectly encapsulates the carefree spirit of warm days.
I can still vividly recall sitting with friends at a picnic table, indulging in this vibrant dish as the laughter and chatter filled the air. With its bright colors and fresh herbs, this salad is not just a feast for the palate but a feast for the eyes as well.
And the best part? Putting it together couldn’t be simpler! Whether you’re looking to impress at your next barbecue or just want a quick yet satisfying meal that whispers ‘summer’ with every bite, this Watermelon Burrata Salad is your go-to.
Why is Watermelon Burrata Salad a Must-Try?
Freshness in every bite: The sweet watermelon combined with creamy burrata creates a delightful contrast that sings of summer.
Easy to prepare: You can whip this salad up in minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or lazy days.
Versatile options: Swap out the watermelon for peaches or berries to create your own unique twist—endless possibilities await!
Nutritionally rich: This salad is low in calories and hydrating, making it a smart choice for a light meal packed with vitamins.
Crowd-pleaser: Gorgeous presentation and vibrant flavors will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Watermelon Burrata Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Watermelon – the star of the dish, providing sweetness and hydration; feel free to substitute with cantaloupe or honeydew for a twist.
• Burrata Cheese – adds a rich, creamy flavor and luxurious texture; if you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good backup, though the creaminess is unparalleled.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., basil, mint) – bring garden-fresh flavor to the salad; choose herbs you love, as mint adds a refreshing touch.
• Olive Oil – drizzled for a touch of richness and flavor enhancement; always choose high-quality extra virgin for the best results.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – provides a hint of heat to balance the sweetness; skip this if you prefer a mild flavor.
For Serving
• Fresh Lemon Juice (optional) – an optional drizzle can brighten the flavors of the salad; or you might prefer the simplicity of just olive oil.
• Sea Salt – just a pinch will elevate all the flavors, enhancing the natural sweetness of the watermelon.
This Watermelon Burrata Salad is a delightful dish brimming with vibrant flavors and textures that will make your summer meal unforgettable!
How to Make Watermelon Burrata Salad
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Slice the Watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized chunks. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure each bite is a burst of sweetness and juiciness.
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Toss with Herbs: In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon chunks with your choice of fresh herbs, like basil or mint. This mixture creates a fragrant base that enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Prepare the Burrata: Cut the burrata in half, and carefully tear it into bite-sized pieces for a rustic look. Arrange these creamy morsels among the watermelon, embracing delicious contrasts.
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Drizzle with Olive Oil: Generously drizzle the salad with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This adds richness and brings all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
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Add Spice (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salad. This step is optional but can elevate the dish, giving it a delightful kick.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or served alongside grilled meats.
Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Watermelon Burrata Salad?
This vibrant salad is a delightful centerpiece that invites the sun to your table, making it a perfect addition to any warm-weather meal.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, grilled chicken adds a savory contrast, while its smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the watermelon.
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Chilled Rosé Wine: A crisp, chilled rosé enhances the fresh flavors of the salad, making every sip a refreshing delight alongside each bite.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutty, a quinoa salad can provide an earthy balance to the dish and bring additional protein to your meal.
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Crusty Baguette: Fresh, crusty bread allows for a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy burrata, perfect for sopping up any leftover olive oil.
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Grilled Shrimp: The slight char of grilled shrimp introduces a savory depth that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s sweetness, adding a touch of coastal flavor.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a zesty note to conclude your summer dining experience.
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Caprese Skewers: Simple and elegant, these skewers of mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes echo the freshness of your salad while keeping a similar flavor profile.
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Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy, tangy feta dip with veggies or pita chips makes a delightful starter that sets the tone for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Watermelon Burrata Salads are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors with minimal effort! You can cut the watermelon and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, prepare your fresh herbs by rinsing and chopping them ahead of time—just keep them in a separate container to maintain their vibrant color. Assemble the salad just before serving by gently tossing the prepped watermelon and herbs with the burrata and a drizzle of olive oil. This way, you’ll ensure every ingredient remains fresh and the salad looks stunning, delivering restaurant-quality results right at your table!
Expert Tips for Watermelon Burrata Salad
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Choose Ripe Watermelon: Opt for sweet, ripe watermelon to ensure your salad is bursting with flavor. Avoid any with dull colors or bruises, as they may be less tasty.
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Freshness is Key: Assemble the salad just before serving. If preparing in advance, keep watermelon, burrata, and herbs separate to maintain their freshness and textures.
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Knife Skills Matter: Use a sharp knife to cut through the burrata with ease. This prevents compression and allows the creamy center to flow out beautifully when served.
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Season with Care: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the salad to enhance all the flavors. Just a pinch can elevate the natural sweetness of the watermelon wonderfully.
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Experiment with Variations: Feel free to mix in different herbs or even cheeses. Alternatives like feta or goat cheese can add exciting flavors and create new twists on your Watermelon Burrata Salad.
Proper Storage for Watermelon Burrata Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy your Watermelon Burrata Salad again.
Separate Ingredients: If prepping in advance, keep the watermelon and burrata separate until serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Airtight Container: Use a well-sealed container to prevent moisture loss and keep the salad vibrant; add fresh herbs just before serving to avoid wilting.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold. If you need to reassemble, simply toss the ingredients again without heat to keep the textures intact.
Watermelon Burrata Salad Variations
Feel free to tailor this salad to your taste and available ingredients for an even more delightful experience.
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Peachy Twist: Replace watermelon with juicy ripe peaches for a sweet, summery twist that offers a hint of floral flavor. A beautiful alternative that embraces the essence of summer!
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Berry Burst: Add a mix of fresh strawberries and blueberries for a pop of color and sweetness. These berries not only taste great but provide an additional layer of freshness.
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Feta Replacement: Swap burrata for crumbled feta cheese for a tangy flavor that pairs surprisingly well with sweet fruit. The salty contrast creates a deliciously unique salad.
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Creamy Goat Cheese: For those who love a little tang, substitute burrata with creamy goat cheese. Its distinct flavor complements the watermelon perfectly and creates a rich, plush texture.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or dill instead of basil or mint for a whole new flavor profile. Each herb brings its unique character to the salad.
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Spicy Kick: If you crave more heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy chili oil instead of red pepper flakes. Ignite your taste buds with this delightful spicy twist!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top for added texture and a nutty flavor. These little bites will enhance the salad’s overall crunch and richness.
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Citrusy Zing: A splash of fresh lime or orange juice can brighten the salad even more, elevating all the flavors and adding a fresh zing that enlivens each bite.
Watermelon Burrata Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose a ripe watermelon?
Absolutely! Look for a watermelon that has a uniform color with a smooth skin and a waxy feel. A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size, and when you knock on it, it should produce a deep hollow sound. Avoid watermelons with dark spots all over, which can indicate overripeness.
How long can I store leftovers of the Watermelon Burrata Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the vibrant flavors and textures. If you prepare it in advance, keep the watermelon and burrata separated until you’re ready to serve—this will help keep everything fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze Watermelon Burrata Salad?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire salad due to the texture changes from freezing, you can freeze watermelon chunks on their own. Cut the watermelon into manageable pieces, then spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen pieces to an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just combine with fresh burrata and herbs once thawed, but enjoy it as a refreshing snack rather than a salad.
What if I can’t find burrata cheese?
Not a problem! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute. Slice or tear the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces, but keep in mind you won’t get the creamy, rich center that burrata offers. To mimic that texture, consider adding a dollop of ricotta on top after arranging the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for kids or those with allergies?
The Watermelon Burrata Salad is generally safe and kid-friendly, but always check for allergies. If you’re serving it to someone with a dairy allergy, you can replace burrata with a dairy-free cheese option or simply omit it altogether. As for kids, who wouldn’t love juicy watermelon in a fun salad? Just ensure you slice the ingredients into smaller, manageable pieces for them to enjoy!
Can I modify the herbs used in the salad?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences. While basil and mint are delightful, you can also use cilantro for an interesting twist or even parsley for a milder flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors, so dig into your herb garden and mix it up!
Delicious Watermelon Burrata Salad for a Refreshing Summer Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the Watermelon into bite-sized chunks.
- Toss with Fresh Herbs in a large bowl.
- Prepare the Burrata by tearing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil to enhance flavor.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes if desired for heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!