Summer’s Ultimate Delight: Creamy Burrata Peach Salad with Prosciutto

Prepare to be enchanted by this burrata peach salad – a true celebration of summer flavors served effortlessly in a single bowl. This vibrant dish artfully combines the luscious sweetness of fresh, ripe peaches with the indulgent creaminess of burrata cheese. Complementing these stars are crisp, peppery greens, the rich, buttery texture of avocado, delicate ribbons of salty prosciutto, and the fragrant freshness of basil leaves. Each component is lightly coated in a simple yet exquisite balsamic vinaigrette and elegantly finished with an extra drizzle of aged balsamic. It’s a culinary masterpiece that requires no cooking, making it the quintessential choice for sweltering summer evenings, relaxed backyard gatherings, or whenever you crave a dish that is both profoundly simple and utterly satisfying. This salad isn’t just a side; it’s a layered symphony of flavor and texture, destined to become your go-to seasonal favorite.

This exquisite burrata peach salad holds a special place, often requested by loved ones who cherish the vibrant taste of summer. It’s the kind of irresistible dish that captures everyone’s heart from the very first bite. The harmonious blend of intensely sweet peaches, the cool, milky richness of burrata, the smooth, buttery notes of avocado, and the aromatic burst of fresh basil creates a perfect balance—hitting all the right sensory notes: sweet, salty, cool, creamy, and undeniably fresh. This versatile salad can stand alone as a light, refreshing meal, especially when peaches are at their peak. For a more substantial dinner, consider pairing it with grilled chicken, a perfectly seared steak, or your favorite seafood. A slice of warm, crusty grilled bread, ideal for soaking up any remaining vinaigrette and burrata goodness, makes for an unforgettable summer dining experience.

Why This Burrata Peach Salad Will Become Your Summer Obsession

There are countless reasons why this burrata peach salad isn’t just another summer recipe, but a truly indispensable dish for your warm-weather repertoire. Its compelling simplicity belies the sophisticated symphony of flavors and textures it delivers, making it a standout for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to elegant entertaining.

• Unforgettable Flavor Balance: Imagine the juicy explosion of sweet, sun-ripened peaches perfectly contrasted with the savory, delicate saltiness of prosciutto. Then add the cool, ultra-creamy burrata, which acts as a luxurious canvas, tying all the flavors together. Crisp greens provide a refreshing counterpoint, creating a harmonious bite that hits every single note—sweet, salty, cool, creamy, and fresh. It’s a masterclass in contrasting yet complementary ingredients that will leave your taste buds singing.
• Effortless, No-Cook Preparation: On those scorching summer days, the last thing you want is to turn on the oven or stand over a hot stove. This burrata peach salad is your ultimate solution. It requires absolutely zero cooking. Simply slice, assemble, drizzle, and serve. This makes it perfect for quick weeknight dinners, spontaneous entertaining, or when you simply crave a light yet incredibly satisfying meal without the fuss, allowing you more time to enjoy the beautiful weather.
• Showcases Peak Summer Produce: This recipe is designed to celebrate the bounty of summer. It highlights the best of seasonal ingredients: gloriously ripe, fragrant peaches bursting with natural sweetness, aromatic fresh basil vibrant with herbal notes, and perfectly ripe, buttery avocados. Using produce at its peak ensures maximum flavor and nutritional value, transforming a simple salad into a vibrant, taste-packed experience that truly embodies the essence of summer’s harvest.
• Visually Stunning Presentation: Beyond its incredible taste, this salad is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant hues of golden peaches, verdant greens, creamy white burrata, and rosy prosciutto create a beautiful mosaic that looks spectacular on any table. It’s an ideal dish for impressing guests without requiring advanced culinary skills, proving that elegant food can also be easy to prepare.
• Customizable and Versatile: While the core ingredients are magical together, this burrata peach salad is also incredibly adaptable. You can easily adjust it to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand, from swapping cheeses to adding different nuts or even a protein to make it a more substantial meal. Its versatility makes it a practical and exciting recipe to revisit throughout the season, always offering something new to discover.

For another terrific salad featuring the luxurious texture of burrata, be sure to try this burrata caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, a classic that also embodies the simplicity and freshness of summer.

Essential Ingredients for Your Burrata Peach Salad

The beauty of this burrata peach salad lies in its carefully selected, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, salty, and ultimately satisfying flavors. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this summer sensation, along with tips for selecting the best produce to ensure your salad is nothing short of perfect.

For the Burrata Peach Salad Base:

• Fresh Salad Greens: The foundation of any great salad, providing a fresh, crisp base. My absolute favorite for this dish is peppery arugula, as its subtle bitterness beautifully cuts through the richness of the burrata and sweetness of the peaches, adding complexity. However, feel free to choose your preferred base; red leaf lettuce offers a mild crunch, baby spinach provides a tender texture and earthy flavor, a spring mix adds a delicate blend of young leaves, or baby kale can introduce a slightly more robust, nutritious element. Remember to ensure your greens are fresh and thoroughly dried for the best texture and to allow the dressing to cling properly, preventing a watery salad.
• Burrata Cheese: This is unequivocally the star of the show. Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese, similar in appearance to mozzarella but with a delightful secret inside. Its outer casing is solid mozzarella, while the interior contains a rich, creamy mixture of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds) and fresh cream. When you gently tear it open, the luscious, milky center spills out, creating an irresistible luxurious texture that melts into every bite. Always serve burrata at room temperature to fully appreciate its soft, decadent consistency and delicate, buttery flavor. It truly elevates this from a simple fruit salad to a truly show-stopping culinary experience.
• Peaches: The sweet heart of this summer salad. The key is to select ripe peaches that are fragrant and give slightly to a gentle squeeze. They should smell intensely sweet and fruity, especially at the stem end. Yellow peaches are classic for their vibrant color and balanced sweet-tart flavor, while white peaches are equally sweet, juicy, and have a more delicate floral aroma. Their natural sugars beautifully complement the savory and creamy elements of the salad, creating a harmonious balance.
• Avocado: Adding a wonderful depth of richness and a smooth, buttery texture, ripe avocado is crucial for contrasting beautifully with the salty prosciutto and the juicy, slightly firm peaches. It provides a creamy counterpoint that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the salad. Look for avocados that yield gently to pressure, indicating perfect ripeness. Its healthy monounsaturated fats also contribute to the salad’s satisfying nature, making it feel more substantial and filling.
• Fresh Herbs (Basil is Key!): Aromatic fresh basil is essential, weaving all the distinct summer flavors together with its peppery, sweet, and slightly minty notes. It adds that vital herbal freshness that brightens the entire dish and provides an authentic taste of Italian-inspired summer. For an intriguing twist, fresh mint can also be a delightful addition, bringing a cool, refreshing zing that pairs surprisingly well with peaches. Use generous amounts for maximum impact on both flavor and aroma.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto introduces a wonderful salty, savory depth that masterfully balances the sweetness of the peaches and the luxurious creaminess of the burrata. Its delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture adds another layer of sophistication and umami to the salad. When arranging, tear it into ribbons for an elegant presentation. If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the prosciutto; the salad is still incredibly flavorful on its own, or you could add sun-dried tomatoes for a similar savory depth.
• Nuts (Optional for Added Crunch): For an extra layer of texture and buttery flavor, toasted pine nuts are an excellent choice. Their delicate crunch and rich taste complement the other ingredients perfectly. Alternatively, slivered almonds offer a subtle nuttiness, pistachios add a vibrant color and distinct flavor, or chopped walnuts can provide a heartier crunch and earthy notes. If you prefer a nut-free salad, simply skip this addition – the salad is still fantastic and satisfying without them.

For precise measurements of these ingredients, along with sea salt and black pepper to season, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.

For the Simple Balsamic Vinaigrette:

A good dressing ties everything together, acting as the unifying element that enhances, rather than overpowers, the natural flavors of the burrata peach salad. This easy balsamic vinaigrette is carefully designed to do just that.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: As the primary base of your vinaigrette, the quality of your olive oil truly matters. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich, fruity, and sometimes peppery notes, which contribute significantly to the overall flavor profile of the dressing. It provides a smooth, luxurious texture to the vinaigrette.
• Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient provides the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, offering a complex depth of flavor. A good balsamic vinegar adds richness and a slightly syrupy quality that complements both the fruit and the cheese. It serves a dual purpose in this recipe: as a key component for the quick vinaigrette and as an optional final drizzle over the assembled salad, especially if you have an aged, thicker balsamic or a balsamic glaze.
• Garlic (Optional but Recommended): Just a small clove of garlic, finely grated or mashed, introduces a subtle aromatic warmth and savory depth to the vinaigrette without being overwhelming. It provides a gentle backbone of flavor that enhances the other ingredients beautifully.
• Dijon Mustard (Optional Emulsifier): A mere half teaspoon of Dijon mustard works wonders in helping to emulsify the vinaigrette. It helps bind the oil and vinegar together, creating a smooth, coherent dressing that coats the ingredients evenly. It also adds a slight tang and a hint of subtle spice, rounding out the flavor profile of the dressing.

Exact quantities for the vinaigrette ingredients, including sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, can be found in the comprehensive recipe card below. Adjust seasoning to your personal preference for the perfect finish.

Should you be looking for another delightful salad featuring summer fruits, consider trying this grilled fig salad, which offers a unique and equally refreshing experience with a honey-balsamic dressing.

Creative Substitutions & Delicious Variations for Your Salad

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to your taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply what ingredients you happen to have available. This burrata peach salad is remarkably flexible, allowing for several delightful substitutions and variations that can transform the dish while maintaining its irresistible summer essence. Don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Greens: While peppery arugula is a fantastic choice that provides a lovely bite, you can easily experiment with other leafy greens. Tender baby spinach offers a milder flavor and softer texture, red leaf lettuce provides a crisp, delicate base, and a mixed spring greens blend will introduce a variety of textures and subtle flavors. For something with a bit more structural integrity and a subtle bitterness, consider finely chopped radicchio or endive.
• Fruit Alternatives: Peaches are undoubtedly spectacular, but other stone fruits can shine just as brightly. Ripe nectarines, with their smooth skin and similar sweetness, make an excellent one-for-one swap. Plums, particularly red or black varieties, can add a beautiful tartness and deeper color, creating an even more striking visual. In late summer, fresh figs are an absolutely divine substitution, offering a sophisticated sweetness and unique, jammy texture that pairs wonderfully with burrata and prosciutto. For an extra layer of flavor and complexity, consider lightly grilling your peaches or nectarines before adding them to the salad; the caramelization enhances their sweetness beautifully and adds a hint of smoky flavor.
• Cheese Swaps: If authentic burrata isn’t available, or you’re looking for a different creamy element, several alternatives work well. Fresh mozzarella cheese balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) offer a similar milky quality, though they lack the gooey interior of burrata. Crumbled goat cheese provides a tangy, earthy contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet fruits and savory meats. For a lighter, airy creaminess, whipped ricotta cheese is a fantastic choice, especially when sweetened slightly. Even a high-quality, fresh feta cheese can work if you enjoy a saltier, tangier profile, adding a Mediterranean twist.
• Prosciutto Alternatives (and Vegetarian Options): Beyond traditional prosciutto, you can explore other cured meats like Spanish jamón serrano or speck (a smoked and cured ham from Italy), which add different nuances of savory flavor and texture. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the cured meat. To maintain a savory, umami element in a meat-free salad, you might consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, toasted walnuts, or even crispy roasted chickpeas for a textural contrast.
• Vinaigrette Styles: The balsamic vinaigrette is a classic for a reason, but don’t limit yourself! A bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette, made with fresh lemon juice, good olive oil, and a touch of honey, would offer a lighter, more citrusy twist that enhances the freshness of the peaches and basil. For a touch of sweetness with a hint of spice, a honey-lime vinaigrette could be a delicious option. You can also infuse your olive oil with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for an herbal dressing, or add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
• For a Dairy-Free Version: To adapt this salad for dairy-free diets, simply make it a vibrant peach and prosciutto salad. The combination of sweet peaches, salty prosciutto, creamy avocado, and fresh basil is still incredibly delicious and satisfying on its own, especially with a well-balanced vinaigrette. You could also consider a vegan feta alternative if desired.
• Added Protein for a Full Meal: For a more substantial main course salad, consider adding thinly sliced grilled chicken breast (perhaps marinated in lemon and herbs), perfectly seared shrimp, or even flakes of smoked salmon. These proteins integrate seamlessly and elevate the salad to a complete and healthy meal, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Chef’s Tip – Understanding Burrata: Burrata is an exquisite Italian cheese that might look like fresh mozzarella from the outside, but it holds a delicious secret. It’s typically sold in a container filled with brine, which is essential for preserving its incredible freshness and creamy texture. Before using, remember to drain off the brine and gently pat the burrata dry with paper towels. The magic happens when you tear into the ball: inside, you’ll discover a luxurious, soft, and milky filling known as stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds mixed with cream). This rich, soft center will beautifully spill out, creating an opulent touch in your salad. The outer casing is also edible and part of the cheese experience. For the absolute best texture and most pronounced flavor, always serve burrata at room temperature; this allows its creamy interior to be at its most decadent and spreadable.

Crafting Your Burrata Peach Salad: An Easy Assembly Guide

The beauty of this burrata peach salad lies in its elegant simplicity and the fact that it requires absolutely no cooking. It’s all about fresh ingredients and effortless assembly, allowing you to create a gourmet-looking dish in minutes. Follow these simple steps for the perfect summer salad, paying attention to presentation for that extra wow factor:

• Prepare Your Greens: Begin by washing your chosen fresh salad greens, whether it’s peppery arugula, a tender spring mix, or baby spinach. It’s crucial to dry them thoroughly, ideally with a salad spinner or by gently patting them with paper towels, as excess moisture can dilute your dressing and make the greens less crisp. Arrange the greens as your base in a large, shallow salad bowl or across a beautiful serving platter, creating an inviting bed.
• Slice the Peaches and Avocado: Carefully slice your ripe peaches into elegant wedges or half-moon shapes. If your peaches are exceptionally soft and ripe, dicing them might be easier to manage and less messy. Next, slice the creamy avocado. For perfect presentation, you can fan out the avocado slices. If you’re not serving immediately, a splash of lemon or lime juice over the avocado can help prevent browning and keep it vibrant.
• Prepare the Prosciutto: Take your thinly sliced prosciutto and gently tear it into elegant, rustic ribbons or smaller, bite-sized pieces. These ribbons will be artfully swirled and layered throughout the salad, adding pockets of savory goodness and visual interest.
• Tear and Arrange the Burrata: This is arguably the most satisfying step! Gently pull the burrata balls apart by hand, revealing their glorious creamy centers. This rustic tearing allows the stracciatella to ooze beautifully. Nestle these luscious chunks strategically over your bed of greens, ensuring each serving gets a generous portion of that milky interior.
• Whip Up the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the good quality extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard (if using, for emulsification and tang), and finely grated garlic (if desired, for aromatic depth). Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk until well combined and slightly emulsified, forming a cohesive dressing.
• Assemble and Dress Thoughtfully: Once all your components are prepared, artfully arrange the sliced peaches, avocado, and prosciutto ribbons over the burrata and greens. You can toss the greens and some of the peaches/avocado with a light amount of vinaigrette first to ensure even coating, or simply drizzle the dressing elegantly over the entire assembled salad, allowing it to pool slightly around the burrata.
• Garnish with Fresh Basil: Finish the salad by scattering generous amounts of fresh basil leaves over the top. For smaller leaves, you can leave them whole; for larger ones, gently tear them by hand just before serving to release their aromatic oils, adding both beauty and an indispensable fresh, herbaceous aroma.
• Optional Crunchy Topping: For an additional textural dimension, sprinkle with raw or lightly toasted nuts like pine nuts, slivered almonds, pistachios, or chopped walnuts. Lightly toasting them in a dry pan beforehand really brings out their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy and soft elements.

If you have a passion for peaches (or nectarines) and are seeking another delightful appetizer, don’t miss this incredible nectarine and goat cheese crostini, a perfect bite for summer entertaining that also showcases fresh fruit.

Elevate Your Meal: Serving This Burrata Peach Salad

This vibrant burrata peach salad is a versatile dish that effortlessly transitions from a light, refreshing lunch to a sophisticated starter or even the dazzling centerpiece of a casual backyard dinner party. Thanks to the substantial elements like creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, and rich avocado, it can almost be a complete meal on its own. However, if you’re looking to round out your dining experience and truly impress, here are some perfect pairing suggestions:

• Artisan Bread for Scooping: Serve generously alongside slices of warm, crusty artisan bread, such as a fresh baguette, ciabatta, or grilled sourdough. The bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of the delectable balsamic vinaigrette and scooping up bits of creamy burrata, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt on the bread before grilling adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Grilled Proteins for a Hearty Meal: Transform this fresh salad into a more satisfying main course by pairing it with a simple grilled protein. Succulent grilled chicken, perfectly seared shrimp, or flaky grilled salmon are all excellent choices that complement the fresh flavors of the salad beautifully, adding healthy protein without overpowering the dish. For a specific recommendation, try this grilled lemon chicken for a burst of citrusy freshness that harmonizes wonderfully.
• Enhanced Crunch and Satiety: As an optional addition, don’t forget the power of toasted nuts. Pine nuts, pistachios, or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that elevates the salad’s texture profile, providing a pleasant contrast to the soft ingredients. They also contribute healthy fats, making the meal even more filling and satisfying.
• A Drizzle of Balsamic Glaze: If your balsamic vinegar is on the thinner side, consider finishing the salad with a luscious drizzle of homemade balsamic glaze. This concentrated, syrupy reduction adds a beautiful sheen, a deeper layer of sweet-tangy flavor, and an elegant touch that truly enhances both the presentation and the taste, making it feel extra special.
• Wine Pairing: For adult guests, a crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied Rosé would be an excellent accompaniment. These wines harmonize beautifully with the salad’s fresh, fruity, and savory notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• As Part of a Mezze Platter: This salad also works wonderfully as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter, alongside olives, hummus, pita bread, and other fresh small bites.

Prep Ahead & Storage Tips for Optimal Freshness

While the burrata peach salad is undeniably at its best when enjoyed immediately after assembly, a little strategic preparation can make serving quick and stress-free. However, it’s crucial to understand that certain components lose their appeal quickly once combined, so smart storage is key.

This is truly one of those salads that shines brightest when served fresh. The delicate peaches and creamy avocado are prone to softening and browning rapidly after being cut and exposed to air. The luxurious burrata also begins to “melt” and lose its distinct firm-yet-creamy texture, and the fresh greens can wilt quickly once dressed. For these reasons, we strongly recommend keeping the main ingredients separate and assembling the salad just before serving to preserve the optimal texture, vibrant colors, and unparalleled fresh flavors.

• Greens: Wash and thoroughly dry your chosen greens (arugula, spinach, etc.). Store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The paper towel absorbs excess moisture, keeping them crisp.
• Peaches: Slice the peaches no more than a few hours in advance of serving. To prevent browning, gently toss the slices with a tiny squeeze of lemon juice, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This citric acid acts as a natural antioxidant.
• Avocado: Avocados brown very quickly once cut. It is highly recommended to slice them just before assembling the salad. If you absolutely must pre-slice, coat them thoroughly with lime or lemon juice and store them tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to minimize air exposure.
• Prosciutto: Tear the prosciutto into ribbons or smaller pieces. Store it loosely covered in the refrigerator for a day or two. Keeping it separate prevents it from drying out or sticking too much to other ingredients.
• Burrata: Keep burrata in its original brine until ready to use. Drain and gently pat dry just before tearing and adding to the salad. Remember, it should always be served at room temperature for the best, most decadent texture. Remove it from the fridge about 20-30 minutes before serving.
• Vinaigrette: The balsamic vinaigrette can be prepared up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. The oil and vinegar may separate, so give it a good shake or whisk before serving to re-emulsify.

By following these simple prep-ahead guidelines, you can significantly reduce last-minute kitchen time, ensuring your burrata peach salad is a stunning and fresh addition to your table without compromising on quality or flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burrata Peach Salad

Curious about making the most of your burrata peach salad? Here are answers to some common questions that will help you perfect this delicious summer dish, ensuring you have all the information you need for a delightful culinary experience.

Discover More Terrific Summer Salad Recipes

Summertime is the season for light, fresh, and flavorful salads, offering an endless array of possibilities beyond this delightful burrata peach creation. Whether you’re craving crisp greens, hearty grains, vibrant vegetables, or creative fruit combinations, there’s a summer salad for every palate and occasion. Explore new flavors and find more inspiration to keep your warm-weather meals exciting, nutritious, and absolutely delicious throughout the season!

Made This Delicious Burrata Peach Salad? Share Your Experience!

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📖 Recipe: The Ultimate Burrata Peach Salad