Marinated Tomato Burrata Salad

Category: Fresh, Crisp, and Flavorful

Experience the vibrant pairing of creamy burrata cheese and juicy, marinated tomatoes enhanced with fragrant basil and a tangy balsamic glaze. This dish bursts with summer flavors, thanks to a simple marinade of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and freshly chopped herbs. After marinating, the tomatoes are artfully arranged and topped with rich burrata, a drizzle of balsamic reduction, and a touch of olive oil. Finish with fresh basil leaves for an inviting presentation. Enjoy it immediately, or pair with crusty bread for dipping into every savory bite—ideal as a light starter or refreshing side.

Sweet by Emma official logo
Updated on Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:24:15 GMT
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. Save
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. | sweetbyemma.com

Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze is my go to when I want to impress guests or just have something special on the table with zero stress. The bright juicy tomatoes and creamy burrata make every bite deliciously satisfying and perfect for long summer evenings or a casual weeknight treat.

I once made this for a backyard picnic and my friends asked for the recipe before the meal even ended. The richness of burrata with tangy tomatoes won everyone over and it always does.

Ingredients

  • Grape or cherry tomatoes: Choose the freshest and sweetest for the best flavor A variety of colors makes it extra vibrant
  • Red onion: Adds sharpness and crunch Go for crisp firm onions
  • Fresh basil: Brings herbal notes Opt for bright green unwilted leaves
  • Coarse sea salt: Draws out tomato juices and amplifies flavor Flaky salt gives a little texture
  • Fresh ground black pepper: Gives gentle heat and depth Use freshly cracked for max aroma
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Rounds everything out with richness Look for cold pressed and peppery
  • Garlic: Offers warmth and bite Always use fresh cloves not jarred
  • Vinegar: Adds tanginess Sherry or red wine vinegar work really well
  • Burrata cheese: The star creamy inside and delicate outside Buy it as fresh as possible
  • Balsamic glaze: Adds sweetness and acidity Choose high quality aged glaze
  • Maldon salt: For finishing highlights the creaminess of burrata
  • Fresh basil leaves: Adds a final pop of color and flavor Always garnish right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Tomatoes:
Wash and slice grape or cherry tomatoes lengthwise for an elegant look. Place them in a large bowl so every piece can soak up the marinade.
Mix the Marinade:
Add diced red onion, finely chopped basil, sea salt, pepper, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and your preferred vinegar to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the tomatoes are fully coated and glistening.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor:
Cover the bowl and let the tomato mixture rest for at least three hours in the refrigerator. They take on even more flavor if you leave them overnight. Before serving allow them to come to room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes for best taste.
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the marinated tomatoes on a serving plate or shallow bowl spreading them out for an even layer.
Add the Burrata:
Carefully tear open the burrata and nestle it in the center or scatter in generous spoonfuls around the tomatoes. Let some of the creamy center ooze out.
Finish and Garnish:
Drizzle more olive oil and a generous amount of balsamic glaze over everything. Sprinkle lightly with Maldon salt and finish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
Bring to the table right away with crusty bread for scooping up those juices.
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. Save
A plate of food with tomatoes and cheese. | sweetbyemma.com

I absolutely adore how the burrata melts into the marinated tomato juices on warm nights. This salad reminds me of lazy dinners at my grandmother’s house when fresh tomatoes were always the star.

Storage tips

If you have leftovers store the marinated tomatoes separately from the burrata in a sealed container in the refrigerator up to two days. Keep the burrata in its liquid until ready to serve. Bring everything to room temperature before combining and finishing with glaze and basil.

Ingredient substitutions

If you cannot find burrata use fresh mozzarella or ricotta for that creamy texture. Swap red onion for shallots if you want a milder bite. Any high quality vinegar such as champagne or white balsamic can work in the marinade.

Serving suggestions

This salad sings as an appetizer or served alongside grilled meats. Try piling it on toasted bread for a no fuss bruschetta or as the centerpiece of a summer picnic. I love to scoop up every last bit with a chewy baguette.

A little Italian flair

The bold flavors and simple ingredients are at the heart of Italian cuisine. Burrata comes from Puglia and marinated tomatoes are a summertime classic all over Italy. This dish brings those southern Italian flavors to your table in moments.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I marinate the tomatoes?

For best flavor, marinate the tomatoes for at least 3 hours. They can also be left overnight in the fridge for enhanced taste.

→ Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry or grape varieties?

Yes, but choose tomatoes that are firm and flavorful. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for optimal texture.

→ What is burrata, and can I substitute it?

Burrata is a creamy Italian cheese with a soft center. Fresh mozzarella is a suitable alternative if burrata is unavailable.

→ What bread works best for dipping?

Crusty artisan bread, such as sourdough or a baguette, pairs beautifully and soaks up the marinade well.

→ Is this salad best served cold or at room temperature?

Allowing ingredients to come closer to room temperature before serving enhances the flavors and creaminess of the cheese.

Marinated Tomato and Burrata Salad

Vibrant salad with juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze—perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 min
By: Emma

Category: Salads

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ For Marinated Tomatoes

01 1 lb grape or cherry tomatoes
02 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
03 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
04 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
05 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
06 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
07 1 clove garlic, minced
08 1 tablespoon vinegar
09 10 oz burrata cheese
10 Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
11 Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
12 Olive oil, for drizzling

How to Make It

Step 01

Slice the tomatoes in half lengthwise and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add diced red onion, chopped basil, sea salt, pepper, olive oil, minced garlic, and vinegar to the bowl. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 02

Let the tomato mixture marinate for at least 3 hours, or up to 24 hours. If marinating overnight, allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before serving.

Step 03

Arrange the marinated tomatoes on a platter or in a serving bowl. Tear open the burrata cheese and place it in the center of the plate or around the tomatoes.

Step 04

Drizzle the salad with olive oil, balsamic glaze, and a light sprinkle of Maldon salt. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately or with crusty bread for dipping.

Additional Notes

  1. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Letting the mixture marinate enhances the dish's complexity.

Tools Required

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving platter or bowl

Allergen Information

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk and dairy (burrata cheese).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are provided as a guide and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~