Burrata and Roasted Asparagus and Tomato Salad

This Mediterranean-inspired salad is a vibrant medley of fresh flavors and textures. Combining creamy burrata cheese with roasted asparagus and juicy tomatoes, crispy prosciutto, peppery arugula, and crunchy French bread, this salad is both rustic and elegant. It strikes a beautiful balance between indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a light lunch, or a side dish for grilled meat or seafood, this dish is a celebration of simple, seasonal ingredients that speak for themselves.

The creamy richness of burrata adds luxurious depth, while the roasted vegetables provide a warm, caramelized contrast. Fresh basil adds fragrance, and a drizzle of quality olive oil ties it all together with subtle earthiness. This salad offers a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• Burrata cheese

• Fresh tomato slices

• Asparagus spears

• Thin slices of prosciutto

• Fresh arugula

• Fresh basil leaves

• Slices of French bread

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Kosher salt
  
  

Instructions

1. Drain the Burrata
   Remove the burrata from its container and let it rest at room temperature. This helps it become even creamier when served.

2. Roast the Vegetables
   Preheat your oven to broil. Arrange the tomato slices and asparagus spears on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with extra-virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 5 minutes or until the tomatoes begin to caramelize and the asparagus is tender. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Note: Thick asparagus may need a few extra minutes.

3. Toast the Bread
   Drizzle the French bread slices with olive oil and toast them in the oven or a toaster oven until crisp and golden.

4. Assemble the Salad
   Tear the toasted bread into bite-sized pieces and do the same with the burrata. Arrange the roasted tomatoes, asparagus, torn bread, and prosciutto on a large platter or bowl. Add a generous handful of arugula and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Place the burrata chunks throughout the salad.

5. Finish and Serve
   Drizzle the entire salad with a bit more olive oil and season with extra salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while the ingredients are still slightly warm and fresh.
   
   

Serving Suggestions

This salad can shine in multiple roles:

• Main Course: Serve larger portions alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. It’s hearty yet light, ideal for spring and summer meals.

• Appetizer or Starter: Present it on a large board or platter with extra bread slices and let guests build their own small bites.

• Side Dish: Complements grilled proteins like steak, chicken, or salmon beautifully. It also pairs well with pasta or couscous.

• Entertaining Platter: Serve on a long platter for guests to dig into at gatherings, brunches, or holiday feasts.
  
  

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands, here’s a general idea of what you can expect from a typical serving:

• Calories: Approximately 350–450 kcal

• Protein: Around 15–20 grams

• Fat: 25–30 grams (mostly from the olive oil and burrata)

• Carbohydrates: 15–25 grams

• Fiber: 2–4 grams

• Calcium: High, thanks to the burrata and leafy greens

• Vitamins A, C, and K: Present in asparagus, tomatoes, arugula, and basil

• Iron and Potassium: Found in the vegetables and greens
  
  

This salad is rich in healthy fats, especially from the olive oil and burrata, making it both filling and heart-friendly. The vegetables add antioxidants and fiber, which support digestion and overall health. It’s also naturally gluten-free if you substitute the French bread with gluten-free options.