Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, you’re in the right place. This Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese is a fresh, vibrant blend of textures and flavors. With creamy Burrata cheese, roasted asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts, all tied together by a simple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad makes for an elegant side dish or a satisfying light meal.
Introduction
Salads don’t have to be boring, and this Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese proves it. Combining roasted asparagus and sweet cherry tomatoes with rich, creamy Burrata cheese, this dish offers a delightful mix of tastes and textures. The toasted pine nuts add a lovely crunch, while the balsamic vinaigrette provides just the right amount of tanginess to balance the flavors. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a simple weekday lunch. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1.5 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 oz grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 8 oz Burrata cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For Garnish:
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
This list of ingredients keeps things simple yet sophisticated. The key is using the freshest produce and high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar to let the natural flavors shine.
How to Make Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese
Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting the asparagus is the first step in bringing out its sweet, earthy flavor.
Prepare and Roast Asparagus:
Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut them into 1.5-inch pieces. Toss the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until they’re tender and slightly charred. Once done, remove the asparagus from the oven and set it aside to cool.
Toast Pine Nuts:
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pine nuts evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 5 minutes. Keep a close watch, as pine nuts can burn quickly. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This simple dressing complements the salad ingredients without overpowering their natural flavors.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the roasted asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the vegetables, using as much as you desire, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serve:
Divide the salad among individual serving bowls or arrange it on a large platter for a family-style presentation. Top each portion with a piece of creamy Burrata cheese, followed by a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.
Garnish:
For the final touch, scatter the chopped fresh basil over the salad and add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. This enhances the dish’s aroma and gives it a bright, fresh finish.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality Burrata cheese for the best flavor and texture. Burrata is creamy and luxurious, making it the star of this dish.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the asparagus instead of roasting it. Simply brush the asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender.
- Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step. Be sure to watch them closely, as they can go from golden to burned in seconds.
- If you’re short on time, you can substitute pre-made balsamic glaze for the homemade vinaigrette. Just drizzle it over the salad before serving.
- This salad can be served slightly warm or at room temperature. If you prefer a chilled salad, refrigerate the roasted asparagus and tomatoes before assembling.
Cooking Tips
- To make slicing the tomatoes easier, use a serrated knife. This prevents squishing and ensures even halves.
- If you’re making this salad ahead of time, wait to add the dressing, Burrata, and pine nuts until just before serving to maintain the freshest textures.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the balsamic vinegar you use is certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or steak for a balanced and satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a hearty grain like farro or quinoa to create a complete dish. If you’re hosting a party, present this salad on a large platter as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread featuring hummus, pita bread, and marinated olives.
Nutritional Information
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional benefits per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 8%
This salad is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, making it a nourishing addition to your diet.
Storage and Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, keep the dressing and Burrata cheese separate and add them just before serving. Pine nuts can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! If you can’t find Burrata cheese, fresh mozzarella or even crumbled goat cheese would work well in this salad.
What other nuts can I use instead of pine nuts? Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans are excellent alternatives if pine nuts aren’t available.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Absolutely. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts would make delicious additions.
Related Recipes
If you love this Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese, you might also enjoy these recipes:
- Caprese Salad with a Twist
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Grilled Vegetable Platter with Herb Dressing
- Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad
Conclusion
This Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata Cheese is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and simple, elegant preparation. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as part of a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. The combination of roasted asparagus, juicy tomatoes, creamy Burrata, and crunchy pine nuts is irresistibly delicious. Give this recipe a try and experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures for yourself. Happy cooking!