The Apulia Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad is a celebration of the culinary elegance rooted in the southern Italian region of Puglia, renowned for its agrarian charm and dedication to simplicity in cooking. This dish reflects the region’s gastronomic philosophy, where cooking is not just a task, but an art form that revolves around honoring high-quality, seasonal ingredients that speak for themselves. A staple of Puglian cuisine, burrata cheese takes center stage in this recipe. Its exceptional creaminess and light, milky flavor act as the perfect foil to the bright, tangy-sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, making this salad not only visually stunning but also a medley of taste and texture.
Puglia, or Apulia in English, is often referred to as the “heel of Italy” thanks to its geographic location on the country’s boot-shaped map. A region defined by its sun-kissed landscapes and coastal breezes, its culinary treasures are equally enchanting. Known for its abundant olive groves, Puglia is a premier producer of some of the world’s finest extra virgin olive oils. It’s no surprise that a generous drizzle of this liquid gold is used in this recipe to harmoniously tie together the natural flavors of the ingredients. The olive oil adds a grassy-earthy depth that perfectly complements the creamy burrata and the slightly acidic cherry tomatoes.
Burrata is a product that originated in the Apulian region, making it quintessential to its culinary heritage. Its name, derived from the Italian word “burro,” meaning butter, speaks to its unique buttery texture. Burrata is made by filling a soft mozzarella shell with stracciatella (shredded mozzarella mixed with cream), giving it a rich, velvety center that bursts out when cut open. This cheese’s divine texture and flavor contribute a luxurious quality to the simplicity of the salad.
The inclusion of cherry tomatoes, particularly heirloom varieties, is a nod to the importance of fresh produce in Mediterranean cuisine. These tomatoes are prized for their vibrant colors and rich flavors, ranging from sweet to slightly tangy, adding an essential note of brightness to the dish. The salad is brought to life with simple components like torn basil leaves, offering an aromatic herbaceousness, and a touch of aged balsamic vinegar that lends the dish complexity through its subtly sweet and tangy notes.
While the Apulia Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, it transcends its simplicity by embodying the true essence of Mediterranean cooking: balance, freshness, and an emphasis on quality. It’s a dish that comes together in just 15 minutes, celebrating nature’s finest flavors with every bite. For an added twist, you can include toasted pine nuts for a crunch or thinly sliced red onions for a mild sharpness.
This recipe is not just a meal—it’s a sensory journey to the heart of southern Italy, crafted with the same reverence and passion that defines Puglia’s way of life. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, a light lunch, or a colorful side for dinner, the Apulia Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad brings the soul of Puglia to your table, offering a bite of its timeless beauty and culinary tradition.
Apulia Burrata and Cherry Tomato Salad
Ingredients
Dressing
- 60 ml (affiliate link)olive oil preferably from Puglia
- 15 ml (affiliate link)balsamic vinegar Aged for a richer flavor
Salad
- 500 g cherry tomatoes halved, preferably heirloom
- 250 g burrata cheese 2 balls
- 10 leaves basil freshly torn
- 1 pinch (affiliate link)sea salt to taste, preferably Maldon
- 1 pinch cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified, creating a harmonious blend that will elevate the salad.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on a serving platter, allowing their vibrant colors to form a visual canvas. Carefully tear open the burrata balls, allowing the creamy interior to nestle among the tomatoes.
- Add the Final Touches: Scatter the freshly torn basil leaves over the salad, allowing their aromatic freshness to mingle with the other ingredients. Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing, use a gentle hand to season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste.