If you are craving a vibrant, fresh salad that feels like summer on a plate, this Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe is exactly what you need to make next. It masterfully combines juicy, caramelized nectarines with creamy burrata and savory prosciutto, all nestled on a bed of peppery arugula. The moment you bite into this salad, you get a chorus of textures and flavors that sing together — sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp. It’s bright yet indulgent, simple yet sophisticated, and absolutely perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list of ingredients for a spectacular salad like this. Each element plays a pivotal role, bringing balance, color, and irresistible flavor that is both fresh and satisfying.
- 4 medium nectarines (halved and pitted): Choose ripe but firm nectarines so they hold up well to grilling and develop a beautiful caramelized char.
- 8 oz burrata cheese (sliced): This creamy cheese adds a luscious texture that melts in your mouth, making every bite dreamy.
- 4 oz prosciutto (sliced): Thinly sliced prosciutto introduces a salty, savory element that contrasts perfectly with the nectarines.
- 4 cups arugula: Peppery arugula adds freshness and a slight bite, lifting the entire dish with its green vibrancy.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling): High-quality olive oil brings richness and helps the nectarines char beautifully without sticking.
- 1 tbsp balsamic reduction (for drizzling): A sweet-tart balsamic drizzle ties all the flavors together with a gorgeous glossy finish.
How to Make Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Nectarines for Grilling
Start by halving and pitting your nectarines. Brush each half generously with olive oil to enhance caramelization and prevent sticking. This step is crucial for getting those signature golden grill marks that add flavor and visual appeal to the salad.
Step 2: Grill the Nectarines
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the nectarines cut side down and grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see beautiful char marks and the fruit softens just slightly. Flip and grill the skin side for another minute. Grilled nectarines bring out natural sugars that add a wonderful smoky sweetness to the dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
On a large platter, lay down the arugula, spreading it out evenly. This fresh, peppery green works like a bed that supports all the toppings both in flavor and texture. The brightness of the arugula is vital for balancing the rich cheeses and prosciutto.
Step 4: Add Burrata and Prosciutto
Gently tear or slice the burrata into generous chunks and scatter over the arugula. Next, drape thin slices of prosciutto around and over the burrata and nectarines, creating layers of salty goodness. This layering ensures every bite hits all the flavor notes we love.
Step 5: Finish with the Nectarines and Balsamic Reduction
Place your warm, grilled nectarines evenly on top. Lastly, drizzle the balsamic reduction over the entire salad in a zigzag pattern. This final touch elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise by adding a luscious tangy sweetness that perfectly rounds out the salad.
How to Serve Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to add an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or cracked black pepper over the salad. Fresh basil leaves or microgreens can bring a delightful herbaceous note that enhances the look and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a light main on its own, but it also pairs amazingly well with crusty sourdough bread or a rustic flatbread that lets you scoop up every bit of the creamy burrata and drizzled balsamic. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled chicken or seafood for an effortless gourmet experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Use a large wooden board for a rustic presentation, and invite everyone to dig in family-style. Alternatively, present each serving in individual shallow bowls for an elegant touch that makes guests feel like they are indulging in a restaurant-quality dish. Adding edible flowers can also create a stunning visual effect perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the burrata texture intact, it’s best to keep it separate from the salad greens and assemble fresh portions before serving again.
Freezing
Freezing this salad isn’t recommended because the burrata and fresh greens will not retain their texture and flavor well once thawed. The nectarines might hold up better if grilled and frozen alone, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
You don’t want to reheat this salad as the burrata melts and arugula wilts. Instead, enjoy the nectarines at room temperature or give them a quick warmup in a skillet if desired, then assemble the salad fresh with cold greens and cheese.
FAQs
Can I use peaches instead of nectarines?
Absolutely! Peaches also grill beautifully and bring a similar juicy sweetness that works wonderfully in this salad. Just be mindful that peaches tend to be softer, so handle them gently when grilling.
What is the best substitution if I can’t find burrata?
Fresh mozzarella is a great alternative that offers a mild and creamy texture, although it won’t be as rich and luscious as burrata. For a creamier option, try mixing mozzarella with a bit of cream cheese.
How do I make a quick balsamic reduction at home?
Just simmer balsamic vinegar in a small pan over medium heat until it thickens and reduces by about half. This intensifies the flavor and gives you a lovely syrupy finish perfect for drizzling.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic or outdoor meal?
Yes, but assemble the salad right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant. Transport nectarines and burrata separately and add just before eating.
Can I add nuts to this salad?
Definitely! Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts add a wonderful crunch and extra flavor dimension that complements the creamy and juicy elements perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe is truly a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Once you try it, I bet this will become one of your favorite go-to dishes for warm-weather lunches, special dinners, or anytime you want a salad that feels special without a fuss. So don’t hesitate — fire up your grill and let the magic of sweet nectarines, silky burrata, and savory prosciutto dance on your palate!
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Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad combines juicy grilled nectarines with creamy burrata cheese and delicate slices of prosciutto, all served over a fresh bed of peppery arugula. Drizzled with balsamic reduction, this easy and elegant salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and tangy flavors, ideal for a light summer lunch or appetizer.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 4 medium nectarines, halved and pitted
Dairy
- 8 oz burrata cheese, sliced
Meat
- 4 oz prosciutto, sliced
Greens
- 4 cups arugula
Oils and Condiments
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
- 1 tbsp balsamic reduction (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the nectarines. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the nectarine halves lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to enhance caramelization during grilling.
- Grill the nectarines. Place the nectarines cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they have nice grill marks and begin to soften but still hold their shape. Flip and grill briefly on the skin side for 1-2 minutes, then remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the salad. On a large serving platter or individual plates, spread the arugula as the base. Arrange the grilled nectarines, sliced burrata cheese, and prosciutto over the greens evenly.
- Finish and serve. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the assembled salad for a sweet and tangy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors at their best.
Notes
- You can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable.
- If balsamic reduction is not available, use a balsamic glaze or a good quality balsamic vinegar, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the burrata or replace with vegan cheese alternatives.
- To make the salad more filling, add some toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts.
- This salad pairs well with a crusty baguette or light white wine.
