If you’re looking for a salad that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, the Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe is an absolute must-try. This beautiful dish brings together peppery arugula, creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, and the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all tied together with toasted pine nuts and a bright balsamic dressing. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a satisfying weeknight meal. I adore how every bite offers a little surprise—creamy, crunchy, salty, and fresh—all in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this salad only requires a handful of ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish shine. From the peppery crispness of the arugula to the luxurious creaminess of burrata and the rich saltiness of prosciutto, you’ll find that simplicity truly brings out the best flavors in this salad.
- 4 cups fresh arugula: The peppery greens form the vibrant, refreshing base that wakes up every bite.
- 8 oz burrata cheese: Creamy and dreamy, burrata adds a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
- 4 oz prosciutto (thinly sliced): This salty, delicate Italian ham adds a savory punch and pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): These little bursts of sweetness bring color and juiciness to the salad.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil enriches the salad with fruity, peppery notes.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: This vinegar provides a slight tang and a hint of sweetness for balance.
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasted): Toasting them adds a nutty crunch that elevates the texture beautifully.
How to Make Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Start by giving your arugula a good rinse under cold water to remove any grit, then pat it completely dry to avoid sogginess. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes so their sweet juices can mingle throughout the salad, adding bright pops of flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
Place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. After about 3-4 minutes, they will turn a gorgeous golden brown and release a toasty aroma that’s simply irresistible. Keep a close eye on them, as pine nuts toast quickly and can burn if left unattended.
Step 3: Combine Greens, Tomatoes, and Burrata
In a large bowl, toss the arugula with the halved cherry tomatoes. Then, tear the burrata cheese into generous pieces and gently add it to the bowl. This way, the creamy cheese melds beautifully with the peppery greens and juicy tomatoes.
Step 4: Add the Prosciutto
Arrange the thinly sliced prosciutto over the top of your salad. The tender, salty ham’s delicate texture and rich flavor contrast wonderfully with the fresh ingredients below.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly over the salad. These simple dressings add depth and a perfect balance of fruity and tangy notes that tie the whole dish together.
Step 6: Finish with Toasted Pine Nuts and Serve
Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for that satisfyingly nutty crunch. Serve the salad immediately so the arugula stays crisp and the burrata remains luxuriously creamy. Your Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, consider adding freshly cracked black pepper or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top. A sprinkle of fresh basil or mint leaves can also add an herbal freshness that lifts the salad even more. Each garnish brings its own burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread, perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy burrata and olive oil. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, which complement the salad’s bright and savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try arranging the salad on a rustic wooden platter, layering the prosciutto ribbons artistically over the greens and burrata. Alternatively, assemble individual portions in glass bowls so each guest can admire all the colorful ingredients before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness—keep arugula, prosciutto, and tomatoes in airtight containers, and burrata wrapped tightly in its original liquid or fresh water. Combine everything just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t ideal for freezing due to the delicate textures of arugula and burrata. Freezing would compromise the creaminess and crispness that make this dish so special.
Reheating
Since the salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you want to warm some pine nuts for added crunch, a quick toast in a dry pan works perfectly just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of arugula?
Absolutely! While arugula provides a lovely peppery bite, you can substitute baby spinach or mixed salad greens if preferred—though the salad’s signature bold flavor comes from arugula.
What if I can’t find burrata? What’s a good substitute?
If burrata is hard to find, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that burrata’s creamy center is what gives this salad its special indulgence.
How do I toast pine nuts without burning them?
Use medium heat and stir the pine nuts constantly in a dry skillet. Once they turn golden brown and smell nutty, remove them immediately from the heat to prevent burning.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
The prosciutto contains meat, so it’s not vegetarian. You can simply omit it or replace it with marinated artichokes or roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
You can prep the ingredients separately ahead of time. Keep arugula, tomatoes, and pine nuts ready, but add burrata and prosciutto last minute to keep everything fresh and vibrant for your guests.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe enough if you want to treat yourself or impress friends with minimal effort. Its mix of peppery greens, creamy cheese, and savory prosciutto is simply unbeatable. Once you try this salad, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion—trust me, it’s that good!
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Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A fresh and elegant Arugula Burrata Salad with Prosciutto, combining peppery arugula, creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy toasted pine nuts, all perfectly dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delightful appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups fresh arugula (about 100g)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 oz prosciutto (thinly sliced)
Dressing and Toppings
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasted)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash arugula thoroughly under cold water and gently pat dry with paper towels or a salad spinner. Halve the cherry tomatoes to release their sweet juices and add freshness to the salad.
- Toast the pine nuts: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the pine nuts. Toast them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh arugula and halved cherry tomatoes. Tear the burrata cheese into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl to distribute creamy texture throughout.
- Add prosciutto: Arrange the thinly sliced prosciutto neatly on top of the salad to add a savory and salty element that complements the creaminess of the burrata.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly over the entire salad to enhance all flavors with a balanced tang and richness.
- Finish with pine nuts: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the salad to add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Notes
- To ensure the burrata remains creamy, handle it gently when tearing and adding to the salad.
- Toast pine nuts carefully and watch closely to prevent burning, as they brown quickly.
- For a nut-free version, omit pine nuts or substitute with toasted sunflower seeds.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of arugula and the creaminess of burrata.
- Pair with crusty bread or a light white wine for a complete meal.
