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Fresh Burrata Caprese with Sweet Balsamic Reduction

Fresh Burrata Caprese - featured image

A quick and easy salad featuring creamy burrata, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sweet balsamic reduction that elevates the classic Caprese to a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
  • 3 large ripe heirloom tomatoes or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced or halved
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or whole
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if using.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens and reduces by about half. It should coat the back of a spoon but not be too sticky. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  3. While the balsamic is reducing, slice tomatoes into ¼-inch thick slices or halve cherry tomatoes. Arrange evenly on a serving platter.
  4. Gently drain any excess liquid from the burrata. Place it in the center of the platter or tear into large chunks scattered among the tomatoes.
  5. Tear or place fresh basil leaves around and on top of the tomato and burrata arrangement.
  6. Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the tomatoes and burrata.
  7. Pour 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad.
  8. Once the balsamic reduction has cooled slightly but is still pourable, drizzle it artistically over the salad. Avoid pouring too much at once to maintain balance.
  9. Optional: Add minced garlic to the olive oil and let it infuse for a few minutes before drizzling for extra flavor.

Notes

Keep the balsamic reduction on low heat to avoid burning. Let burrata come to room temperature before serving for best texture. The recipe is flexible: substitute vegan mozzarella and maple syrup for a dairy-free and vegan version. Add garlic-infused olive oil for extra flavor. Serve fresh at room temperature and store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: burrata, caprese, balsamic reduction, fresh tomatoes, easy salad, summer recipe, quick appetizer