As the sun hits its zenith in those long summer days, nothing excites my kitchen more than a Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad. The moment you slice into those juicy, grilled nectarines, the aroma alone transports you to warm picnics and sunlit gatherings. A heavenly balance of creamy burrata and savory prosciutto makes this dish a standout for any meal, while its vibrant colors shout “fresh and fun!” Best of all, it’s quick to whip up, meaning you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with loved ones. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, no problem—just skip the prosciutto for a delightful twist. Are you ready to bring a taste of summer to your table? Let’s dive into this irresistible salad!
Why is this salad a summer essential?
Vibrant, Colorful Presentation: This salad is a feast for the eyes, with hues of peach, green, and cream that mirror sunny days.
Sweet and Savory Harmony: The combination of grilled nectarines and creamy burrata with the saltiness of prosciutto creates a delightful flavor explosion.
Quick and Easy Prep: Perfect for busy summer days, this dish comes together in no time, letting you spend more moments outdoors.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix it up! Substitute with seasonal fruits or add nuts for extra crunch.
Great Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this salad is bound to impress your guests along with dishes like Apple Arugula Salad and Corn Pasta Salad.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Ingredients
• Dive into the colorful and flavorful world of this summer favorite!
For the Salad
- Nectarines – Adds sweetness and juiciness; substitute peaches or plums for similar results.
- Burrata Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy texture; mozzarella can work in a hurry, but burrata is best.
- Prosciutto – Adds a salty, savory element; omit for a delightful vegetarian option.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Contributes freshness and tanginess; regular tomatoes can take their place if needed.
- Heirloom Tomatoes – Offers varying flavors and colors, enhancing presentation; any ripe tomato can serve in a pinch.
- Fresh Cherries – For added sweetness and texture; can be swapped with grapes or berries based on availability.
- Mixed Baby Spring Greens – Provides a fresh base; spinach or arugula are fantastic alternatives.
- Finishing Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors; use sea salt for a touch of elegance.
- Grilled Baguette – Serves as a crunchy side; gluten-free bread can be used for those with dietary needs.
For the Vinaigrette
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to brighten the dish; lime juice is an excellent substitute if desired.
- White Wine Vinegar – Provides tanginess; apple cider vinegar also works well as an alternative.
- Lemon Zest – Enhances the citrus flavor; lime or orange zest can give a different twist if preferred.
- Fresh Oregano – Adds aromatic depth; dried oregano can suffice in a pinch, but fresh is recommended.
- Fresh Mint – Offers a refreshing note; basil could bring a lovely alternative flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Thyme Leaves – Infuses herbal flavor; use regular thyme if necessary but adjust the quantity.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Acts as the base for the vinaigrette; avocado oil is a great substitute whenever needed.
Get ready to whip up this delicious Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad, where every bite represents the essence of summer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This ensures vibrant char marks on your nectarines, enhancing flavor and presentation. While the grill heats, gather your ingredients so everything is within reach for efficient assembly.
Step 2: Prepare the Nectarines
Slice the nectarines into quarters, removing the pits. Lightly brush each piece with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they’re well-coated. Once the grill is ready, place the nectarines cut-side down and grill for about 2-3 minutes until you see beautiful grill marks, then carefully flip and grill for another 2-3 minutes until tender and warm.
Step 3: Allow to Cool
After grilling, transfer the nectarines to a plate and let them cool slightly to retain their juiciness and prevent burning your fingers. This brief cooling period lets you prepare the vinaigrette while finishing touches for the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad can be set in motion.
Step 4: Whisk the Vinaigrette
In a mixing bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, lemon zest, chopped fresh oregano, mint, and lemon thyme. Gradually whisk in a generous drizzle of olive oil, while adding salt and cracked black pepper to taste. This bright vinaigrette will elevate the flavors of your salad, so set it aside once thoroughly mixed.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, layer your mixed baby spring greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced heirloom tomatoes, and fresh cherries. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated. This vibrant base creates the perfect canvas for the rest of the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.
Step 6: Add the Burrata and Prosciutto
Tear the burrata cheese into luscious chunks and scatter them atop the dressed salad for that creamy texture. Next, layer the prosciutto slices over the top, which will lend a savory punch. Finish with a sprinkle of finishing salt and freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve with Grilled Baguette
To complete your meal, serve the salad alongside sliced grilled baguette pieces for a delightful crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread. Present the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad beautifully and watch as your guests dive into a summer delight!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead makes the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad an absolute breeze for busy weeknights! You can grill the nectarines and prepare the vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely and refrigerate them in airtight containers. Keep the salad components, such as the spring greens and tomatoes, separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their freshness and crunch. When it’s time to enjoy, toss the greens and veggies with the vinaigrette, top with the grilled nectarines, burrata, and prosciutto, and it’s ready to delight your taste buds! This approach saves you precious time while ensuring your salad remains just as delicious.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Fridge: Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best flavor, store the vinaigrette separately and mix in just before serving.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the textures of the grilled nectarines and burrata may become mushy upon thawing. Better to enjoy it fresh!
Reheating: If you’ve prepared the grilled nectarines ahead of time, gently reheat them on the grill or in a pan for 1-2 minutes before adding to your salad.
Prepping Ahead: You can grill the nectarines and prepare the vinaigrette in advance, storing them in the fridge. This makes it quicker to assemble your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad at mealtime.
What to Serve with Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
This vibrant summer salad creates a sensational starter or a refreshing main dish, perfect for any delightful gathering.
-
Toasted Baguette: The crunchy texture complements the creamy burrata beautifully, making it an ideal sidekick for this salad.
-
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken adds a hearty balance to the lightness of the salad, ensuring a satisfying meal experience.
-
Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing, herbaceous side adds texture and fiber, enhancing the overall health benefits while leaping into different flavor dimensions.
-
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia: This aromatic, slightly oily bread is fabulous for soaking up the vinaigrette, enriching each bite of the salad.
-
Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing drink pairs effortlessly with the elements of sweetness, acidity, and savory notes.
-
Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate, this light dessert offers a sweet touch, aligning perfectly with the bright flavors of the salad.
These pairings will not only complement the rich taste of the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad but also create a truly memorable dining experience!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Variations
Feel free to add your unique touch to this salad and enjoy each flavorful twist!
- Meatless Option: Omit prosciutto for a vegetarian salad that’s just as satisfying. The creamy burrata will still shine!
- Seasonal Swap: Replace nectarines with juicy peaches or plums for a delightful seasonal twist that maintains the sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in walnuts or pistachios for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts with the creamy burrata.
- Herb Medley: Experiment with fresh basil or parsley to add a unique aroma and flavor boost for a new layer of deliciousness.
- Dressing Variation: Use apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar for a subtly sweet tang, enhancing the overall brightness of the salad.
- Berry Bliss: Substitute fresh cherries with blueberries or strawberries for a colorful and sweet variation that adds a fruity punch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños for a little heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet nectarines.
- Cheese Changeup: Swap the burrata for creamy goat cheese for a tangy flavor twist that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Explore these delightful variations to make your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad a unique favorite each time! Enjoy this alongside an Apple Arugula Salad or Italian Grinder Salad for a well-rounded meal.
Expert Tips for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
-
Grilling Nectarines: Make sure to grill the nectarines until they are slightly soft, but not mushy. This preserves their sweetness and enhances the flavor in your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.
-
Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality burrata and prosciutto. A little extra effort in selecting these ingredients pays off in flavor and texture, making your salad truly outstanding.
-
Vinaigrette Flavor: For the best taste, prepare your vinaigrette ahead of time. Refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience of your salad.
-
Optional Nut Crunch: Incorporate nuts like pine nuts or pistachios for an added crunch. They also provide healthy fats and can elevate the texture of your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.
-
Fresh Herb Enhancements: Experiment with fresh herbs! Adding basil or parsley can introduce new aromatic profiles to your salad, making it even more refreshing and delicious.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe FAQs
Can I use unripe nectarines for this salad?
Absolutely! While ripe nectarines provide the best sweetness and juiciness, unripe ones can still work in a pinch. Just make sure to grill them a bit longer—around 4-5 minutes on each side—to enhance their flavors.
How should I store leftovers from this salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I recommend keeping the vinaigrette separate to preserve the greens’ crunchiness. Just mix it in before serving!
Can I freeze the components of this salad?
It’s best not to freeze the entire Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad as the textures will suffer, especially the burrata and grilled nectarines. But feel free to prepare the grilled nectarines and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months if you want to have them ready for future summer salads.
What should I do if my salad becomes soggy?
If this happens, you can revive a slightly soggy salad by adding fresh greens or rearranging it on a plate to get the ingredients a bit aerated. You can also add a touch more dressing to mask any excess moisture that may have built up.
Are there any allergenic ingredients in this salad?
Yes, this salad contains dairy due to the burrata cheese and meat (prosciutto). For a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto. If anyone in your party has a dairy allergy, you might try a plant-based cheese or just go without!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! You can grill the nectarines and prepare the vinaigrette a day in advance. Just store them separately and toss everything together right before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Gather your ingredients for efficient assembly.
- Slice the nectarines into quarters, removing the pits. Brush them with extra virgin olive oil, then grill cut-side down for 2-3 minutes, flip and grill for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Transfer the grilled nectarines to a plate and let them cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, lemon zest, oregano, mint, and lemon thyme. Gradually whisk in olive oil, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced heirloom tomatoes, and fresh cherries. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss gently.
- Tear burrata into chunks and scatter over the salad. Layer with prosciutto slices, finishing with salt and cracked pepper.
- Serve the salad with sliced grilled baguette pieces.
Leave a Reply