Fresh Burrata Watermelon Salad

This refreshingly simple burrata watermelon salad celebrates summer's finest ingredients with minimal effort. The juicy sweetness of peak-season watermelon pairs beautifully with creamy burrata, while aromatic basil and tangy balsamic glaze create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

I discovered this combination at an Italian summer festival years ago and have been making it ever since. It's become my signature dish for impromptu gatherings where I need something impressive yet effortless.

Ingredients

• Watermelon: Choose a ripe, seedless variety with a deep red interior and hollow sound when tapped
• Burrata balls: The fresher the better, look for ones packed in water with a soft, creamy center
• Fresh basil leaves: Use only bright green, aromatic leaves without any brown spots
• Quality olive oil: Splurge on extra virgin for its fruity notes that complement the watermelon
• Balsamic glaze: Thicker than regular balsamic vinegar, it adds concentrated sweetness
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper: Enhances all flavors without overwhelming them

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Watermelon:

Cut a ripe watermelon into 1-inch cubes, removing all seeds if necessary. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure consistent flavor in each bite. The watermelon should be cold from the refrigerator to provide the perfect temperature contrast with the room-temperature burrata.

Arrange the Base:

Spread the watermelon cubes across a wide, shallow platter or individual serving plates. Create a single layer rather than piling pieces, allowing each cube to be properly dressed and topped. The vibrant red creates a stunning base for the remaining ingredients.

Add the Burrata:

Gently tear each burrata ball into several pieces, revealing the creamy interior. Place these portions strategically across the watermelon, spacing them evenly. The contrast between the firm exterior and the creamy interior of the burrata is essential to the dish's texture profile.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs:

Scatter whole small basil leaves or tear larger leaves over the arrangement. The aromatic quality of fresh basil bridges the sweetness of watermelon and richness of burrata. Be generous with the basil as it provides crucial aromatic notes.

Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the entire arrangement with high-quality olive oil, moving in a zigzag pattern to ensure even distribution. Follow with balsamic glaze in a similar pattern, using slightly less than the oil to avoid overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Final Seasoning:

Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper from a height to ensure even distribution. The salt particularly enhances the watermelon's sweetness while the pepper adds subtle warmth to the dish. Serve immediately while the temperature contrast is at its peak.

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The first time I served this at a summer garden party, my Italian neighbor confessed it reminded him of childhood summers in Puglia. Something about the combination of these simple ingredients transports people, creating not just a dish but a sensory memory. The burrata is truly the star here its creamy texture against the crisp watermelon creates magic.

Perfect Timing Matters

Timing significantly impacts this dish's success. Assemble it no more than 15 minutes before serving to prevent the watermelon from releasing excess juice and diluting the flavors. The burrata should be removed from refrigeration about 30 minutes before assembly to reach the ideal slightly cool but not cold temperature that maximizes its creamy texture.

Seasonal Adaptations

While peak summer watermelon offers the best flavor foundation, this versatile salad can be adapted year-round. In early spring, substitute strawberries for a different sweet note. Late summer to early fall allows for heirloom tomato variations. Winter versions can incorporate blood oranges or pomegranate arils. The key principles remain the same juicy sweetness balanced with creamy burrata and aromatic herbs.

Elegant Presentation Options

For dinner parties, consider individual plating using shallow bowls that contain the juices while showcasing the ingredients. Stack components vertically by creating watermelon towers with burrata nestled on top. Alternatively, serve in glass tumblers as a layered parfait for cocktail parties. The visual appeal of this dish is nearly as important as its flavor profile, making thoughtful presentation worthwhile.

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Don't wait—assemble this dish just before serving to maximize the flavor and texture of every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What can I substitute for burrata cheese?

If burrata isn't available, fresh mozzarella makes an excellent substitute. For a different flavor profile, try ricotta or goat cheese, though they'll offer a different texture. Feta cheese can also work well, adding a saltier note that complements the sweet watermelon.

→ How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

For best results, assemble this salad no more than 30 minutes before serving. The watermelon releases juice over time which can dilute the flavors. If needed, you can prepare the components separately (cube the watermelon, make the dressing) and store them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before final assembly.

→ What pairs well with this watermelon burrata salad?

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete meal. It also complements Italian dishes like risotto or pasta. For beverages, try a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing Prosecco.

→ Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! Popular additions include thinly sliced red onion, cucumber, avocado, or arugula for pepperiness. Toasted pine nuts or pistachios add crunch, while prosciutto brings a savory element. Mint leaves work well alongside or instead of basil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a gentle heat.

→ How do I select the best watermelon for this dish?

Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size with a deep, hollow sound when tapped. The underside should have a creamy yellow patch (where it sat on the ground while ripening). For this salad, choose a ripe, sweet watermelon as its flavor is a key component of the dish.

→ What is burrata cheese and why is it special?

Burrata is an Italian cow milk cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it a soft, buttery texture. This unique combination makes it perfect for this salad, as the creamy interior creates a natural dressing when broken open.