This refreshing Melon Burrata Salad is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh Summer produce in a fun and unique way! This meal is a surprisingly perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making this salad a great appetizer or side dish for any meal. The freshness and sweetness of the melon along with the creamy burrata create a delicious balance, while the addition of mint and basil provides a bright flavor. The light vinaigrette dressing brings out the flavor of all the components, tying the dish together. This salad is incredibly simple yet flavorful, making it an ideal Summer side dish. I've been loving recipes lately with a refreshing mix of different flavors that blend well together and are a little different than the normal dishes everybody knows and uses!

Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

The Melon Burrata Salad is a classic recipe that is elevated to the next level when paired with a delicious Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette. This vinaigrette adds a perfect balance of sweetness from the Strawberries and acidity from the balsamic vinegar to the salad. This combination of flavors brings out the best in the melon and the creaminess of the burrata. The Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette adds a depth of flavor to the Melon Burrata Salad that is not found in other salad dressings.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Not only is it a delicious combination of flavors, but it's also simple to make ahead of time. Simply prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and keep in mind that if adding basil and/or balsamic glaze, then wait to add it until just before serving. To keep the salad fresh, store the ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to store pre-cut melon separately to prevent it from becoming soggy. If you're looking to preserve the creamy texture of the burrata, wait to add it as well until you're ready to serve. This melon burrata salad is the perfect dish to get started on in your free time to plan ahead and tackle the busy work week with less stress.

What Ingredients Are Needed to Make a Melon Burrata Salad?

This Summer, try a delicious and refreshing Melon Burrata Salad. This light and flavorful dish is sure to become a new favorite! Start by selecting a ripe and juicy melon such as cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon. Then add a soft and creamy cheese, like burrata, for a delightful burst of flavor. Layer melon and cheese with a few handfuls of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens. Finally, drizzle the salad with balsamic dressing (recipe below), and season with salt and pepper to taste. For a little extra crunch, top with a sprinkle of roasted pistachios.

For this salad, you will need cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, burrata, and your favorite vinaigrette. If you can't find all the melons, don't fret! Fresh strawberries, cherries, or figs make a wonderful substitute that will still yield a very sweet and delicious flavor. If you are out of burrata and need another cheese to substitute, mozzarella balls are a great flavor choice and give a similar look and texture to this salad. For a sweeter salad, add a tablespoon of honey to the dressing. To add a salty, smoky flavor, add a few slices of prosciutto. For a hint of herbal flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs such as basil, mint, or thyme.

This salad pairs well with a light white or rosé wine, making it a perfect accompaniment to any summertime meal. Serve this tasty dish with toasted sourdough bread on the side for a delightful crunch. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!

Ingredients

2 or 3 handfuls of lettuce (optional but makes a pretty display)

3 Cups cubed Watermelon

2 Cups cubed Honeydew

2 Cups cubed Cantelope

8 ounces of burrata cheese, at room temperature

1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped

Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup fresh basil

1 tablespoon strawberry preserves

1 tablespoon raw honey

kosher salt & fresh black pepper

Instructions

1. Mix together all Balsamic Strawberry Vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar and shake together until the ingredients come together. Toast chopped pistachios in a pan over the stove until slightly toasty and set aside. Cube all watermelon, honeydew and cantelope. Let burrata come to room temperature.

2. Start assembling the melon burrata salad. Lay down a bed of 2 or 3 handfuls of your favorite lettuce I am using arugula. Add melons. Top with burrata, using your fingers or a fork break apart and spread over the melons.

3. Drizzle Balsamic strawberry vinaigrette and sprinkle pistachios. Add additional basil for color and serve!

This melon burrata salad is easy to make and truly delicious. It's the perfect way to start any Summer meal or have as an amazing appetizer. Either way, it will be a burst of flavor that will surprise your guests and have them coming back for seconds.