Burrata Salad Recipe Jamie Oliver: Creamy Centerpiece With Heirloom Tomatoes

This salad transforms summer produce into an elegant creamy centerpiece. Heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil pair perfectly with burrata’s rich, buttery texture.

Jamie Oliver’s approach keeps it simple—quality ingredients, minimal effort, maximum impact. The result is a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients for Burrata Salad Recipe Jamie Oliver

Summer’s best tomatoes and creamy burrata need little more than olive oil and basil to shine.

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The burrata is non-negotiable here. BelGioioso or Galbani are widely available and consistent in quality. Look for the soft, pillowy texture with a thick cream center—avoid any that feel rubbery or dry. Heirloom tomatoes should be vibrant and fragrant; if they smell like nothing, they’ll taste like nothing. Farmers markets are ideal for peak summer produce, but Whole Foods usually stocks decent options year-round.

No heirlooms? Beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes work in a pinch. Burrata can be swapped for fresh mozzarella (though the texture won’t be as luxurious). The olive oil should be single-origin—California Olive Ranch or Colavita are reliable. For a twist, add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses instead of balsamic. The arugula can be omitted if you prefer a simpler presentation.

Assemble just before serving—burrata oxidizes quickly. Leftovers (without dressing) keep 1 day in the fridge, but the tomatoes will soften. Bring all ingredients to room temperature before assembling for optimal flavor. The bread is best toasted and rubbed with garlic moments before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Burrata Salad

This refined assembly highlights the creamy centerpiece while balancing acidity and freshness throughout the dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Base

Slice the 4 whole Heirloom Tomatoes into ½-inch thick rounds, arranging them on a large platter. I prefer mixed colors for visual appeal—this creates a vibrant foundation for the other elements.

Thinly slice the ½ whole Red Onion and scatter it over the tomatoes. The onion’s sharp bite will mellow when dressed, adding complexity without overpowering the delicate burrata.

Step 2: Dress and Season the Components

In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil and 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar until emulsified. Drizzle this dressing lightly over the tomatoes and red onion, ensuring even coverage without saturating the platter.

Sprinkle with the 1 tsp Flaky Sea Salt and ½ tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper. The flaky salt adheres beautifully to the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness while the coarse pepper adds subtle texture.

Step 3: Position the Burrata and Garnish

Place the 2 whole Fresh Burrata Cheese balls in the center of the platter, gently tearing them slightly to expose their creamy interiors. This encourages the rich, velvety cheese to mingle with the dressing and tomatoes.

Scatter the 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves around the burrata and tomatoes. The basil’s aromatic oils will infuse the dish as it sits, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Minced 1 clove Garlic Cloves can be sprinkled over the burrata for an extra layer of depth.

Step 4: Add Final Touches and Serve

Arrange the 2 cups Arugula around the edges of the platter, adding a peppery contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the burrata. The arugula also serves as a bed for the other ingredients, ensuring every bite includes a mix of textures.

Zest the ½ whole Lemon over the entire dish, then lightly drizzle with its juice. The citrus brightens the flavors, cutting through the richness of the burrata. Serve immediately with the 4 slices Crusty Bread on the side for scooping up every last bite.

Flavor Customization for This Recipe

Citrus Twist

Swap the balsamic vinegar for fresh blood orange juice with a hint of orange zest. The citrus brightens the burrata’s creaminess while complementing the tomatoes. I love this variation on warm summer evenings. 🌟

Herb Variations

Replace basil with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist, or mix in torn opal basil for visual drama. A sprinkle of thyme leaves adds earthy depth without overpowering the dish.

Spicy Kick

Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the dressing or arrange sliced fresno peppers around the platter. The heat contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy burrata. This works especially well with the arugula bed.

Sweet and Tangy

Drizzle pomegranate molasses over the finished salad for a sweet-tart complexity. A handful of pomegranate seeds adds crunch and color. I discovered this trick at a Mediterranean restaurant—it’s a game-changer. 💛

Roasted Garlic Infusion

Roast 2 garlic cloves until soft, then mash into the olive oil before dressing the tomatoes. This mellows the garlic’s bite while adding depth. Pair with toasted sourdough for extra richness.

Mediterranean Flare

Add ½ cup Kalamata olives and ¼ cup crumbled feta for a Greek-inspired version. The salty olives balance the burrata’s creaminess, while feta adds a tangy crumble. Serve with warm pita bread.

Frequently Asked Questions