Savor the Summer: 12 Exquisite Burrata Recipes for Every Occasion
Summer is a season of vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a joyful, more relaxed approach to cooking and dining. As the days grow longer and warmer, our culinary focus naturally shifts towards lighter, more refreshing ingredients that celebrate the bounty of the season. From sun-ripened tomatoes and juicy peaches to crisp greens and aromatic herbs, summer offers an unparalleled array of produce that begs to be highlighted in simple, yet utterly delicious dishes.
Among the many treasures of summer, there’s one ingredient that consistently captures hearts and taste buds with its luxurious creaminess and delicate flavor: fresh burrata cheese. While some might argue it’s become a culinary trend, its undeniable appeal is rooted in its rich taste and incredible versatility. Whether it’s paired with sweet fruits, savory vegetables, or nestled atop a warm dish, burrata elevates any meal from good to truly extraordinary. And honestly, when it’s as accessible and delightful as it is, who can resist?
What is Burrata Cheese? A Creamy Delight Explained
For those who haven’t yet experienced the sheer indulgence of burrata, prepare to be introduced to a true Italian delicacy. Burrata literally means “buttered” in Italian, a fitting name for this incredibly rich and luscious cheese. Originating from the Puglia region of southern Italy, burrata is a fresh mozzarella cheese with a magical secret inside. Unlike regular mozzarella, which is solid throughout, burrata features an outer shell of solid mozzarella that encases a creamy, yielding center.
This decadent core is filled with “stracciatella” – delicate strands of mozzarella cheese that have been steeped in fresh cream. When you cut into a ball of burrata, the creamy, milky stracciatella oozes out, creating a visually stunning and utterly delicious experience. It’s this unique combination of a firm exterior and a soft, buttery interior that gives burrata its unparalleled texture and flavor, far surpassing the chewiness of its mozzarella cousin. It’s rich, it’s ooey-gooey, and it promises a melt-in-your-mouth sensation with every bite.
Why Burrata is the Star of Your Summer Kitchen
Burrata isn’t just delicious; it’s practically designed for summer cooking. Its inherent freshness and creamy texture pair perfectly with the season’s abundant produce. Imagine the sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes, the juicy succulence of peaches, or the peppery bite of arugula, all complemented by the cool, milky richness of burrata. It adds an immediate gourmet touch to simple dishes without requiring extensive cooking, which is ideal when you want to minimize oven time during hot weather.
From vibrant salads to quick appetizers, and even as a luxurious topping for pizzas and pastas, burrata seamlessly integrates into a wide range of recipes. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor acts as a perfect canvas, allowing other ingredients to shine while providing a satisfying creaminess that balances various textures. It’s the ultimate ingredient for effortless entertaining or a casual weeknight meal, bringing a touch of Italian elegance to your summer table. Get ready to put burrata on everything – from toast to salads, and beyond!
The Ultimate Summer Burrata Recipe Collection: 12 Must-Try Dishes
To inspire your summer culinary adventures, we’ve curated a list of 12 mouth-watering burrata recipes that showcase its incredible versatility and flavor. From fresh, vibrant salads that are perfect for a light lunch to savory main dishes and delightful appetizers, these recipes will ensure you make the most of this extraordinary cheese throughout the sunny months. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and discover new favorite ways to enjoy burrata!
Refreshing Burrata Salads for Sunny Days
Beet, Peach, & Burrata Salad with Basil Oil & Candied Pistachios | A Beautiful Plate
This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a sophisticated summer meal. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets beautifully contrasts with the juicy freshness of ripe peaches. When combined with creamy burrata, aromatic basil oil, and the delightful crunch of candied pistachios, this dish becomes an unforgettable culinary experience that’s both light and satisfying.
Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes | Kitchen Confidante
A classic for a reason, this recipe celebrates the peak of summer produce. Vibrant, multi-colored heirloom tomatoes, with their varying levels of sweetness and acidity, are the perfect match for the mild, creamy burrata. A drizzle of good olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and a pinch of flaky sea salt are all you need to create an effortlessly elegant appetizer or light meal that truly lets the ingredients shine.
Tomato, Peach, & Burrata Salad | Two Peas & Their Pod
Combining the best of summer’s harvest, this salad brings together the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches with the fresh tang of tomatoes. The addition of creamy burrata provides a luxurious counterpoint, while a simple dressing ties all the elements together. It’s a delightful mix of sweet and savory, making it a perfect side dish or a light, refreshing lunch on a hot day.
Fig, Prosciutto, and Burrata Cheese Salad | Just A Taste
When figs are in season, this salad is an absolute must-make. The natural sweetness of fresh figs is perfectly balanced by the salty, savory notes of prosciutto and the peppery freshness of arugula. Crowned with a generous ball of creamy burrata, this dish is an explosion of Mediterranean flavors that feels both sophisticated and utterly comforting.
Pickled Nectarine Salad with Burrata | Eats Well With Others
For a unique and tangy twist, try this pickled nectarine salad. The zesty, slightly sweet and sour notes of pickled nectarines offer a fantastic contrast to the rich, creamy burrata. It’s an unexpected flavor combination that works beautifully, creating a refreshing and intriguing salad that’s sure to impress your guests and awaken your palate.
Pea Shoots with Burrata, Lemon Olive Oil, and Toasted Sesame Seeds | Cookbooks 365
This light and airy salad brings together the delicate sweetness of fresh pea shoots with the luxurious creaminess of burrata. A bright lemon olive oil dressing adds a zesty kick, while toasted sesame seeds introduce a nutty crunch. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that highlights fresh ingredients and makes for a perfect starter or a healthy side.
Creative Burrata Mains, Sides & Appetizers
Burrata Pizza Pie | What’s Gaby Cooking
Elevate your pizza night with a decadent burrata pizza pie! Once the pizza is baked to perfection, tear fresh burrata over the hot crust. The residual heat gently melts the creamy interior, creating pools of deliciousness that mingle with your favorite toppings. It’s an irresistible twist on a classic, adding a layer of rich, milky flavor that you won’t find with regular mozzarella.
Ravioli alla Burrata with Pistachio Pesto | The New York Times
Indulge in a Roman-inspired pasta dish with these exquisite ravioli served alongside fresh burrata and a vibrant pistachio pesto. The richness of the burrata complements the nutty, herbaceous pesto and hearty ravioli, creating a truly luxurious and comforting meal. This dish is a perfect example of how burrata can transform a simple pasta into a gourmet experience.
Burrata with White Wine and Garlic Sautéed Tomatoes | In Sock Monkey Slippers
This warm and comforting dish features sweet cherry tomatoes gently sautéed with garlic and white wine, then served alongside a generous ball of burrata. The warm tomatoes slightly melt the burrata, creating a divine sauce that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread. It’s an ideal recipe for a cooler summer evening or as a flavorful appetizer.
Lemon & Olive Oil Marinated Fennel with Burrata and Mint | Food52
Experience the bright and refreshing flavors of marinated fennel, infused with lemon and olive oil, then topped with creamy burrata and fresh mint. The crisp, anise-like flavor of the fennel is beautifully balanced by the rich cheese and the vibrant herbs, making it an excellent palate cleanser or a unique, elegant appetizer.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Burrata | I Am A Food Blog
Take your roasted potatoes to the next level by adding burrata. Crispy, golden-brown roasted potatoes provide a delightful crunch, which is then perfectly complemented by the soft, creamy texture of burrata gently melting over them. It’s a comforting yet elevated side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish, or even enjoyed on its own.
Quick Roasted Asparagus with Burrata and Gremolata | Fork Knife Swoon
Simple yet sophisticated, this dish features tender, quickly roasted asparagus topped with fresh burrata and a bright gremolata. The vibrant green of the asparagus, the creamy white of the cheese, and the zesty, herb-packed gremolata create a visually appealing and incredibly flavorful appetizer or side. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy spring and early summer asparagus.
Tips for Buying, Storing, and Serving Burrata
To ensure you get the most out of your burrata experience, here are a few essential tips:
- Freshness is Key: Always check the “best by” date. Burrata is best enjoyed as fresh as possible, ideally within a few days of purchase.
- Store Properly: Keep burrata refrigerated in its original brine or liquid until you’re ready to use it. This helps maintain its moisture and delicate texture.
- Serve at Room Temperature: For the best flavor and creamy texture, remove burrata from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows its rich, milky interior to become perfectly soft and oozy.
- Handle with Care: Burrata is delicate. Gently transfer it from its container to your serving dish.
- Keep it Simple: Often, the best way to enjoy burrata is with minimal adornment. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, and some fresh black pepper or basil are often all it needs to shine.
- Pair Wisely: Its mild, creamy flavor pairs wonderfully with acidic elements (like tomatoes or balsamic glaze), sweet fruits (peaches, figs), salty cured meats (prosciutto), and fresh herbs.
From light and refreshing salads to indulgent pizzas and satisfying appetizers, burrata cheese is truly a superstar of summer cuisine. Its creamy texture and delicate flavor provide a luxurious touch to any dish, making it incredibly versatile and endlessly enjoyable. We hope this collection of 12 irresistible burrata recipes inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and savor every moment of the summer season. Dive in, experiment, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this glorious Italian cheese!