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This refreshing burrata watermelon salad transforms humble ingredients into an elegant dish that balances sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors perfectly. I discovered this recipe during a particularly brutal summer heatwave and it has become my go-to for impressing guests without spending hours in a hot kitchen.
I first served this at an impromptu backyard gathering last July, and my neighbor who "doesn't like watermelon" ended up asking for the recipe. The combination of cool watermelon with creamy burrata creates a texture contrast that even skeptics find irresistible.
Ingredients
- Fresh watermelon: Choose one that feels heavy for its size and sounds hollow when tapped for optimal sweetness
- Burrata cheese: Splurge on quality here as it's the star ingredient
- Fresh basil leaves: The aromatic oils complement both the watermelon and cheese beautifully
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use your best bottle as the flavor will shine through
- Balsamic glaze: Adds a sweet tanginess that brings everything together
- Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon:
- Cut your watermelon into uniform cubes approximately 1 inch in size for the perfect bite. Remove any seeds you find during the process. Arrange the cubes in a single layer on a serving platter, giving them room to breathe rather than piling them.
- Add the Burrata:
- Take your burrata from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off. Carefully tear each ball into several pieces, preserving the creamy center. Gently place the torn burrata pieces atop the watermelon, spacing them evenly throughout the dish.
- Finish with Herbs and Seasonings:
- Tear the basil leaves gently to release their aromatic oils rather than chopping them which can cause bruising. Scatter them across the salad, then drizzle the olive oil in a thin stream over everything. Follow with a zigzag of balsamic glaze. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few grinds of black pepper.
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching guests' expressions when they take their first bite. The combination seems unusual at first glance, but the way the creamy burrata mingles with the sweet watermelon creates a luxurious contrast that feels much more complex than the sum of its parts.
Best Watermelon Selection
Choosing the right watermelon makes all the difference in this recipe. Look for one with a large yellow spot indicating it ripened on the vine. The exterior should be dull rather than shiny, and the melon should feel heavy for its size. Give it a tap if it sounds hollow rather than dull, you've found a winner. I prefer seedless varieties for this recipe to save time, but if you can find a local heirloom variety, the extra flavor is worth the seed removal effort.
Make It A Meal
While this salad shines as an appetizer, you can transform it into a complete meal with a few additions. Consider adding thinly sliced prosciutto draped around the watermelon for a salty contrast. A handful of toasted pine nuts adds welcome crunch and protein. For a heartier version, serve alongside grilled sourdough bread brushed with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. I often prepare this as a light lunch paired with a chilled glass of Prosecco for the perfect summer meal.
Seasonal Variations
This recipe celebrates summer's bounty, but can be adapted throughout the growing season. In early summer, substitute strawberries for part of the watermelon. By late summer, ripe peaches or heirloom tomatoes work beautifully alongside the watermelon. For fall, try using figs instead of watermelon entirely. The burrata and balsamic combination works with many fruits, so don't be afraid to experiment based on what looks freshest at your market. My family particularly loves a version using a mix of yellow and red watermelon when we can find both varieties.
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This simple recipe proves that less can be more: a few fresh ingredients, thoughtfully combined, create a show-stopping dish anyone can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What pairs well with watermelon and burrata?
Fresh herbs like basil or mint, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and crusty bread complement the flavors of this dish.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
- → What type of burrata is best to use?
Opt for fresh burrata with a creamy center for the best texture and flavor in the dish.
- → What balsamic glaze should I use?
Use a high-quality, thick balsamic glaze for a balanced sweetness and tanginess that enhances the dish.
- → Can I substitute basil with another herb?
Yes, fresh mint or arugula can be great substitutes for basil, adding their unique flavor profiles to the dish.