Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the freshness of vegetables, the creaminess of burrata, and the tanginess of balsamic glaze. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, perfect for summer lunches, dinner parties, or as a side dish to complement a variety of mains. This salad is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients at their best.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ball of burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions
Prepare the Asparagus:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the asparagus for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Sauté the Tomatoes:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the blanched asparagus and sautéed tomatoes on a serving plate. Place the burrata cheese ball in the center.
Drizzle the Dressing:
Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Garnish:
Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and flavorful garnish.
Serve:
Serve immediately with crusty bread or as a side dish.
Tips
- Make It Creamier: If you can’t find burrata, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or ricotta.
- Add Protein: For a heartier salad, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Balsamic Reduction: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a teaspoon of honey over low heat until thickened.
- Raw or Cooked Asparagus: For a crunchier texture, you can skip blanching and serve the asparagus raw.
Calories
Approximately 180 calories per serving, depending on the size of the burrata and the amount of dressing used.
Conclusion
This Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese is a refreshing and sophisticated dish that highlights the best of seasonal produce. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a perfect addition to your dining table, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to something special. Quick to prepare and absolutely delicious, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your repertoire. Enjoy the creamy goodness of burrata combined with the tang of balsamic and the crunch of fresh asparagus!v