Ah, strawberries! They remind me of those sunny afternoons at the farmer’s market, where their sweet aroma competes with the chatter of friendly vendors. This Refreshing Strawberry Burrata Salad with Basil Vinaigrette—it’s like capturing summer in a bowl. It’s a dish that, much like a surprise rain shower on a hot day, refreshes and delights with every bite.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the ingredients: hull and slice fresh strawberries, and thinly slice the red onion. Toast the sliced almonds until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- In a large salad bowl, add the spring greens as the base. Arrange the strawberries and onions evenly over the greens.
- Tear or roughly chop the burrata cheese and distribute it over the salad. Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top for added crunch.
- Prepare the basil vinaigrette by blending fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle the basil vinaigrette over the assembled salad. Toss all the ingredients gently to ensure even coating.
- For an extra touch, add a few cracks of black pepper on top before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, summery salad.
Ingredients
- 5 ounces of spring greens
- 1 pound (16 ounces) of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 ball of fresh burrata cheese, roughly chopped or torn
- 1/3 cup of sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 batch of Basil Vinaigrette
FAQ
- What can I use if I can’t find burrata cheese?
- If burrata cheese is not available, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or feta cheese for a similar creamy texture.
- Can I prepare the salad in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance by combining all the ingredients except the basil vinaigrette. Toss the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
- What types of nuts are best for this salad?
- Toasted sliced almonds are recommended for this salad, but you can use any of your favorite chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add a crunchy texture.
- How do I make the basil vinaigrette?
- The basil vinaigrette is made by blending fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. It only takes about 5 minutes to prepare.
- What main courses pair well with Strawberry Burrata Salad?
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, steak, pork, or shrimp. It also complements Italian dishes and vegetarian entrees such as mushroom stroganoff or easy ratatouille.
Tips
- Use Fresh Produce: Opt for the freshest strawberries and basil available for the best flavor. Visiting a local farmer’s market can be a great way to find high-quality ingredients.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette in Advance: Blend the basil vinaigrette ahead of time and let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together. This can enhance the taste of your salad.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add a unique crunch and flavor to your salad.
- Substitute Cheese if Needed: If burrata is unavailable, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or feta cheese to maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile of the salad.
Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor – for making the basil vinaigrette.
