
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.

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.