As the sun starts to warm the earth and gardens burst into life, I find myself drawn to simple, satisfying meals that remind me of summer. This Creamy Arugula Salad with Burrata is a celebration of all things fresh and vibrant, combining the peppery zest of arugula, luscious burrata cheese, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. What I love most is that this salad is not only a quick and easy dish; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that looks stunning on any table. Perfect for light weekday lunches or as a standout side for holiday feasts, this salad invites endless variations to suit your palate. Curious about how to bring a taste of the season to your plate? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness Awaits: The vibrant combination of arugula and cherry tomatoes brings a garden-fresh taste that screams summer, making it a delightful choice year-round.
Creamy Indulgence: The luscious burrata cheese adds a rich, creamy layer, creating a perfect contrast with the peppery arugula.
Quick to Assemble: This salad comes together in minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at your next family gathering or picnic, and watch it disappear in seconds alongside dishes like Chicken Noodle Soup or Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki.
Endless Variations: Feel free to mix it up with seasonal fruits like pear or pomegranate, allowing your culinary creativity to shine.
Light Yet Satisfying: A nourishing choice that balances your craving for something light without sacrificing flavor.

Arugula Salad with Burrata Ingredients

This Creamy Arugula Salad with Burrata is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and simple ingredients.

For the Salad Base

Baby Arugula or Spring Mix – Offers a delightful peppery flavor; you can swap it with mixed greens if desired.
Cherry Tomatoes – Provide juiciness and a burst of color; opt for fresh, ripe heirloom varieties for extra appeal.

For the Creaminess

Burrata Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the arugula; fresh mozzarella is a good substitute if burrata is unavailable.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Enhances the overall flavor and ensures the greens are nicely coated; choosing high-quality extra virgin olive oil makes a difference.
Salt/Pepper – Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish; adjust according to your personal taste.
Balsamic Glaze – Contributes sweetness and acidity, tying the flavors together; both store-bought or homemade work well.

Optional Crunch

Toasted Pine Nuts – Bring a delightful crunch and nuttiness; you can also use Marcona almonds or walnuts for added texture.

Embrace the fresh, summery taste of this Arugula Salad with Burrata as you prepare to enjoy each delightful bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Arugula Salad with Burrata

Step 1: Prepare the Arugula
Start by washing 4 cups of baby arugula under cold water; gently remove any grit. Spin it dry in a salad spinner or pat it with paper towels until moisture is gone. Place the arugula in a large serving bowl or platter, then drizzle with 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Step 2: Add Burrata Cheese
Carefully drain the burrata cheese and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Cut open the burrata with a sharp knife, allowing the creamy interior to spill out, and nestle it beautifully on top of the arugula. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the cheese to enhance its flavor, creating a luscious center for your Arugula Salad with Burrata.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Halve about 1 cup of ripe cherry tomatoes, ensuring they’re fresh and juicy for that pop of flavor. Gently scatter the halved tomatoes over the arugula and burrata, adding a burst of color and sweetness to your salad. This step not only elevates the dish visually but also complements the peppery arugula with a delightful taste.

Step 4: Finish the Salad
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the entire salad, allowing the sweet and tangy flavor to mingle with the ingredients. If you’re using toasted pine nuts, sprinkle them on top for that added crunch. For an extra touch of flavor, feel free to drizzle a bit more olive oil before serving to enhance the richness of your Arugula Salad with Burrata.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away while the arugula is crisp and vibrant. Optional: Provide crusty bread on the side for a delightful addition and a perfect way to soak up the creamy burrata. Enjoy this refreshing Arugula Salad with Burrata as a light lunch or as a stunning side at your next gathering.

Expert Tips for Arugula Salad with Burrata

Room Temperature Burrata: Use burrata at room temperature for optimal creaminess—straight from the fridge, it can be too firm to enjoy.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Investing in fresh, high-quality ingredients, like extra virgin olive oil and ripe tomatoes, will truly enhance your Arugula Salad with Burrata.
Avoid Soggy Greens: If you plan to have leftovers, keep the salad dressed separately until you’re ready to eat—this prevents the arugula from wilting.
Experiment with Nuts: Don’t hesitate to swap toasted pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and diversity in flavor.
Dress Lightly: Start with a small amount of balsamic glaze, as it can overpower the other flavors; you can always add more to suit your taste!

Arugula Salad with Burrata Variations

Feel free to enhance this salad with delightful variations that reflect your unique taste and preferences!

Seasonal Fruits: Add slices of ripe pear or pomegranate seeds for a sweet burst that complements the peppery arugula.
Cheese Swaps: Try substituting burrata with creamy goat cheese or crumbly feta for a different flavor profile. Each offers a distinct twist on the classic!
Nuts Galore: Replace toasted pine nuts with crunchy walnuts or Marcona almonds for added texture and richer flavor.
Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic lift and refreshing taste that elevates your salad experience.
Heat Factor: Spice things up by adding slices of fresh jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat.
Dressing Variations: Swap balsamic glaze with a lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing for a bright and zesty transformation.
Vegetable Mix: Mix in sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and color, making the salad even more satisfying.

If you’re inspired to make more delightful salads, check out our recipes for Corn Pasta Salad or High Protein Salad for more fresh ideas!

How to Store and Freeze Arugula Salad with Burrata

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep burrata separate to maintain its creamy texture.

Airtight Containers: If you need to mix the ingredients later, use separate containers for arugula, tomatoes, and cheese. This keeps everything fresh and crisp.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh. Avoid reheating, as it can alter the flavors and textures, especially of the burrata.

No Freezing: Due to the fresh ingredients in the Arugula Salad with Burrata, freezing is not recommended, as it can compromise the quality and texture of the salad.

What to Serve with Creamy Arugula Salad with Burrata?

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that complement the freshness and creamy texture of this vibrant salad.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy burrata and balsamic glaze, offering a delightful crunch that balances the salad’s softness.
Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the peppery arugula, adding a hearty protein option to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and enhances the flavor profile, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, a quinoa pilaf introduces an earthy element while maintaining a fresh touch that beautifully accompanies the salad.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory notes of the arugula and burrata, brightening your palate.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: The effervescence and acidity of sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime cleanse the palate, making it a refreshing drink choice.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Arugula Salad with Burrata components are perfect for meal prep! You can wash and dry the arugula and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Similarly, prep the cherry tomatoes by halving them and keeping them in a separate container, allowing their freshness to shine. For the burrata, keep it sealed in its package until ready to serve to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and add the toasted pine nuts for that delightful crunch. This way, you’ll have a fresh and delicious salad with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Arugula Salad with Burrata Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting arugula, look for vibrant, deep green leaves that are crisp and free of yellowing or wilting. For cherry tomatoes, choose those that are firm and plump; if they have a sweet fragrance and no soft spots, you know you’ve struck gold! If you’re opting for burrata, ensure it’s slightly pliable and free from dark spots.

How should I store leftovers from this salad?
Very! For storing your Arugula Salad with Burrata, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can keep fresh for up to 2 days. Remember, to avoid sogginess, keep the burrata separate and store it in a different container to maintain its coveted creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Arugula Salad with Burrata?
Not recommended! Freezing this salad isn’t ideal due to its fresh ingredients, particularly the burrata. Freezing will alter the salad’s textures and overall quality. It’s best enjoyed fresh! If you want to prep in advance, consider keeping the components separate and mixing them together before serving.

What if my burrata cheese is too firm?
Not a problem! If you find your burrata too firm, try letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it. This way, it softens, and you’ll get that lovely creamy interior. If it’s still not creamy enough, gently cut it open and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top to enhance its richness.

Are there any dietary considerations with this salad?
Very! If you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can try substituting burrata with a dairy-free cheese alternative, or even avocado for creaminess. For those on gluten-free diets, just ensure that any nuts used are certified gluten-free. And of course, keep in mind any allergies related to nuts if you’re adding toasted pine nuts!

How can I elevate the flavors of this salad?
Absolutely! For an extraordinary flavor boost, consider adding thinly sliced red onion or fresh herbs like basil or mint to complement the existing ingredients. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten flavors and enhance that summer taste! Always feel free to experiment and make it your own!