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Fresh Nectarine Caprese Salad with Creamy Burrata

Fresh Nectarine Caprese Salad - featured image

A light and refreshing summer salad combining juicy nectarines, heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and fresh basil, finished with a drizzle of balsamic reduction and olive oil.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium fresh nectarines, ripe but firm, sliced thinly
  • 2 large heirloom tomatoes, assorted colors if possible, sliced
  • 8 ounces creamy burrata cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, whole
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all produce: Rinse nectarines, tomatoes, and basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
  2. Slice nectarines and tomatoes into thin wedges about 1/4-inch thick using a sharp knife.
  3. Arrange the salad base by alternating layers of nectarine and tomato slices in a circular or linear pattern, slightly overlapping each piece.
  4. Tear the burrata gently into chunks or halve the ball and place it on top or in the center of the arranged fruit.
  5. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the salad, tearing large leaves into bite-sized pieces or leaving smaller ones whole.
  6. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the entire salad, followed by a light drizzle of balsamic reduction.
  7. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle toasted pine nuts for extra brightness and crunch.
  9. Serve immediately for best flavor, ideally within 30 minutes of assembling.

Notes

Use ripe but firm nectarines to avoid mushiness. Let burrata sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften. If making balsamic reduction at home, simmer balsamic vinegar on low heat for about 10 minutes until syrupy. Prepare fruit slices ahead but add burrata and dress salad just before serving to avoid sogginess. For dairy-free option, substitute burrata with avocado or vegan cashew cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine salad, caprese salad, burrata, summer salad, fresh basil, balsamic reduction, easy salad, healthy salad