This Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the flavors of fresh produce. Combining tender asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and creamy burrata, it’s a salad that’s both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare.
Why Asparagus and Tomato Are the Perfect Pair
Asparagus and tomatoes are the stars of this salad, offering a crisp, slightly sweet bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of burrata. The balance of textures and flavors is key here: the snap of the asparagus, the burst of sweet tomatoes, and the soft, decadent burrata.
- Asparagus: Blanched to keep its bright green color and tender-crisp texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy, slightly sweet, and a natural pairing for fresh salads.
- Burrata Cheese: A luxurious cheese with a creamy center that melts into the salad.
Preparing the Asparagus: Blanching or Roasting?
The key to a great asparagus salad is properly prepared asparagus. For this recipe, you can choose between blanching or roasting.
Blanching the Asparagus
Blanching is a quick and easy way to cook asparagus while maintaining its vibrant color and texture.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the asparagus and cook for about 2-3 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Transfer the asparagus immediately to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and lock in its color.
Roasting the Asparagus
If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can roast the asparagus instead. Roasting brings out a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the burrata.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for about 10-12 minutes until slightly browned and tender.
The Role of Burrata in This Salad
Burrata cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Its outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, making it an incredibly creamy, soft cheese that spreads beautifully over the salad.
- Pro Tip: Always add the burrata just before serving to keep it fresh and soft. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or ricotta will make good substitutes.
How to Dress the Salad
A light dressing brings this salad together without overpowering the delicate flavors of the asparagus, tomatoes, and burrata. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness to the salad.
- Balsamic Glaze: The sweet tanginess of balsamic glaze complements the tomatoes and burrata beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and helps balance the creamy cheese.
- Optional Additions:
- Garlic: A small clove of minced garlic can add depth to the dressing.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salad.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Add More Greens
To make the salad even more robust, add a base of mixed greens or baby spinach. The extra greens will provide more texture and make the salad more filling.
Include a Protein
While this salad is wonderful on its own, you can easily make it more substantial by adding a protein:
- Grilled Chicken: A lean, simple protein that pairs well with the fresh ingredients.
- Grilled Shrimp: Adds a touch of sweetness and pairs perfectly with the balsamic glaze.
- Poached Eggs: For a brunch option, top the salad with poached eggs for added richness.
Serve with Crusty Bread
A side of crusty bread is a must with this salad, as it helps soak up all the delicious olive oil and balsamic glaze. You can also serve it with grilled focaccia or baguette slices for added texture.
Health Benefits of Asparagus and Tomatoes
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Both asparagus and tomatoes offer a wealth of health benefits:
- Asparagus:
- High in fiber, which supports digestion.
- Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like folate.
- Tomatoes:
- An excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart health benefits.
- Burrata: While indulgent, burrata provides protein and calcium. If you’re looking for a lighter option, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used in place of burrata.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the asparagus and tomatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to add the burrata and dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for burrata cheese?
If burrata isn’t available, you can substitute fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even a soft goat cheese for a different, but still creamy, flavor.
Can I use another type of dressing?
Yes, if you don’t have balsamic glaze, a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and lemon juice works just as well. You could also try a light balsamic vinaigrette.
More Savory Side Dish Recipes
Looking for more great side dish ideas? Try these recipes to complement your meal:
- Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
- Old-Fashioned Goulash
- Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake
A Deliciously Simple Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus trimmed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 large burrata cheese about 8 oz
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the blanched asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes in a serving bowl. Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and scatter it over the vegetables.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil, balsamic glaze, and lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the salad for garnish.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the burrata is fresh and creamy.
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