Peach Arugula Burrata Salad with Honey Balsamic
Peach, arugula, and burrata salad with honey balsamic dressing is a delightful summertime dish that combines fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. The sweet juiciness of ripe peaches pairs beautifully with the peppery bite of arugula and the creamy richness of burrata cheese, topped off with a tangy honey balsamic dressing. This salad not only looks stunning but is also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering or a light meal on its own.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This peach, arugula, and burrata salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will impress your taste buds. The freshness of arugula provides a peppery contrast to the sweet, succulent peaches, while the burrata brings a creamy, luxurious element to the dish. Toasted pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch, and the homemade honey balsamic dressing enhances all the ingredients without overwhelming them. Plus, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, as it’s loaded with fresh produce and healthy fats!
Pro Tips for Making Peach, Arugula & Burrata Salad
• Ensure to use ripe peaches for maximum sweetness and flavor: The quality of the peaches dramatically affects the salad’s overall taste. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant.
• Toast your nuts right before using them: Toasting pecans or walnuts enhances their flavor and adds warmth to the salad.
• Use high-quality burrata cheese: The creaminess of burrata is key to this salad. Opt for fresh burrata, which can often be found at farmers’ markets or specialty stores.
• Customize the dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or balsamic vinegar according to your taste preferences.
• Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the integrity of the ingredients. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the components separate until serving.
Ingredients
This salad features a handful of fresh ingredients that come together to create a delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 2 balls fresh burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Honey Balsamic Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Step 1: In a large salad bowl, arrange the arugula as the base. This peppery green will add a refreshing crunch to the salad.
Step 2: Add the sliced peaches evenly over the arugula. The juiciness of the peaches will complement the greens beautifully.
Step 3: Scatter the thinly sliced red onion on top of the peaches. This will add a bit of sharpness to balance the sweetness from the fruit.
Step 4: Add the toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts) over the salad for a delightful crunch. Make sure they are toasted for enhanced flavor.
Step 5: Tear the burrata into large chunks and place it on top of the salad. The creamy texture of the burrata will be the star of the dish.
Step 6: For the honey balsamic dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar until smooth and well combined.
Step 7: Drizzle the honey balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving. This will keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Step 8: If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added layer of flavor. Serve the salad immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of ingredients!
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve this salad fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Store the arugula and veggies separately in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
What other nuts can I use?
In place of pecans or walnuts, you could use almonds or pistachios for a different flavor profile and crunch.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can be good alternatives that would still work well in this salad.
How long will the honey balsamic dressing last?
The dressing will stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to shake or whisk it before using.
What else can I add to this salad?
You can customize the salad by adding other fruits, such as strawberries or cherries, or incorporating grains like quinoa for additional texture and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Peach, Arugula & Burrata Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious dish that is perfect for warm weather dining. It combines the sweetness of peaches, the peppery bite of arugula, and the creaminess of burrata, making it a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s an ideal recipe to whip up for yourself or to impress guests at a summer gathering. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the satisfaction that comes from creating a beautiful salad!
