Caprese-Style Tomato and Burrata Salad with Basil

Caprese-style tomato and burrata salad takes the familiar Italian pairing of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil in a softer, more indulgent direction. Instead of firm mozzarella, burrata brings a delicate outer curd and creamy centre that mingles with the tomato juices, creating a simple no-cook dish with plenty of texture. A little sea salt helps the tomatoes release their flavour, while balsamic vinegar adds gentle sweetness and acidity. Best served straight away, it works as a light lunch, starter or easy sharing plate, especially when tomatoes are at their ripest.
Cuisine style Italian-inspired Caprese
Cooking style No-cook preparation • Minimal cleanup
Time commitment Under 15 minutes

Why this recipe works

  • Ready in minutes: With no cooking required, the salad comes together quickly once the tomatoes are sliced and the burrata is torn.
  • Creamy centre: Burrata adds a soft, rich texture that spreads into the tomato juices and dressing.
  • Balanced dressing: Balsamic vinegar cuts through the richness of the cheese, while olive oil rounds out the tomatoes and basil.

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Timing notes

  • Let the burrata soften: Bring the burrata towards room temperature before serving so the centre is at its creamiest.
  • Serve straight away: This salad is best served immediately, before the tomatoes release too much liquid and the basil wilts.

Ingredient notes

  • Choose ripe tomatoes: Use the ripest tomatoes available, as their sweetness and juiciness carry the whole dish.
  • Use good olive oil: A fruity extra-virgin olive oil is worth using here because the dressing is simple and uncooked.
  • Adjust the balsamic: Use a lighter hand with sweeter balsamic vinegar, or swap in white balsamic for a cleaner, less syrupy finish.

Authenticity notes

  • Burrata variation: Classic Caprese is usually made with fresh mozzarella; burrata gives the same tomato-basil profile a softer, richer centre.
  • Keep it simple: The recognisable Caprese character comes from ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, milky cheese and good olive oil rather than a heavy dressing.

Serving ideas

  • Serve with bread: Crusty bread works well for catching the tomato juices, olive oil and creamy burrata.
  • Layer for contrast: Arrange the tomatoes and burrata in loose layers so each serving gets cheese, basil and dressing.

Equipment you'll need

Ingredients
Instructions
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  1. Slice the tomatoes into 0.5 to 1 cm rounds and arrange on a serving platter or two plates. Sprinkle with the fine sea salt and leave for 2 minutes to draw out a little juice.
  2. Tear the burrata into large pieces and nestle it among the tomatoes. Tuck in the basil leaves, tearing any larger ones.
  3. Drizzle over the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Finish with black pepper and serve straight away.

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Recipe notes

Tips

  • Bring the burrata to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
  • Use a mix of tomato sizes and colours if you have them; it makes the salad sweeter and more interesting.

Substitutions

  • Replace balsamic vinegar with white balsamic vinegar for a lighter, less sweet finish.
  • Replace burrata cheese with fresh mozzarella if you want a firmer, less creamy centre.

Storage

  • Refrigerate up to 1 days
  • Best eaten immediately. If needed, refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container and eat within 24 hours; the tomatoes will soften and release more juice.

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Caprese-Style Tomato and Burrata Salad with Basil
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Recipe overview

  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Total time: 10min (10min active)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Allergens:
    Milk
Beginner friendly Kid friendly

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