Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad

Mastering Roasted Strawberries

Roasting strawberries transforms their flavor profile entirely, concentrating their natural sweetness and creating a caramelization effect that enhances their taste. When tossing the strawberries in olive oil, be mindful not to overdo it—just enough to coat evenly should suffice. You want to see them glisten rather than swimming in oil. Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should look slightly wrinkled and glossy after about 20 minutes, signaling that they're ready to come out.

I recommend using a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting. If you find your strawberries are releasing too much juice during roasting, try a higher oven rack or a hotter oven to promote better caramelization, giving you those delightful golden edges that add depth to the dish.

The Creamy Burrata Connection

Burrata cheese is the star ingredient in this salad, providing a luxurious, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the roasted strawberries. When you tear into the burrata, its rich, silky interior spills out, adding an indulgent element to every bite. Make sure to use fresh burrata for the best results—this cheese is at its peak when it's soft and creamy, so aim to incorporate it shortly before serving.

Should you have difficulty finding burrata, fresh mozzarella can be a suitable substitute, but it won't have the same decadence. For a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese or a dairy-free cheese blend that mimics that gooey, rich texture.

Dressings and Variations

The balsamic glaze is pivotal for adding a tangy sweetness to the salad, balancing out the rich burrata and the sweet strawberries. You can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar over medium heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, usually taking about 10-15 minutes. This makes for an impressive, homemade touch that can elevate your salad even further.

If you're looking to add more dimensions to this salad, consider incorporating sliced almonds or pecans for crunch, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic twist. These additions not only enhance flavor but also add a visual appeal that makes the dish even more enticing.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness. The roasted strawberries can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember, once dressed, the salad should be eaten within a few hours to prevent the greens from wilting.

To keep the burrata from getting watery, avoid slicing or tearing it until you're ready to serve. This way, it stays creamy and intact in the fridge. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the burrata separately to preserve its texture.

Scaling and Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Strawberry Burrata Salad is easily scalable depending on your gathering size. If you're making it for a larger crowd, simply double the quantity of strawberries and burrata, maintaining the same ratios for the greens and dressing. This allows for flexibility without compromising on flavor.

For serving, I recommend presenting it on a large platter, which not only adds to the visual impact but also encourages guests to help themselves. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water to complete the refreshing experience. This salad is an excellent starter or side dish for a summer barbecue or a light lunch.