The scent of ripe nectarines sizzling on the grill instantly transports me to sunny picnics and laid-back summer evenings. It was during one of those sun-soaked afternoons that I first combined juicy nectarines with creamy burrata and savory prosciutto, creating a salad that begs to be savored slowly. This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is much more than a dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors that harmoniously dance on your palate.
Perfect for a refreshing lunch or as a standout side at a dinner gathering, this salad showcases vibrant colors and textures that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to taste. And if you’re seeking a lighter option, simply omit the prosciutto, and let the sweet nectarines and rich burrata shine on their own. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this easy-to-make dish is destined to become your new summer favorite. Join me in exploring this delectable recipe that encapsulates the essence of easy, homemade goodness!
Why is Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad so special?
Bright, Bold Flavors: The sweet nectarines harmonize beautifully with creamy burrata, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Seasonal Delight: Leveraging fresh, summer ingredients, this salad captures the essence of the season.
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant dish, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out prosciutto for your favorite protein or go vegetarian for a lighter meal.
Instagram-Worthy: The colorful presentation makes this salad not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes—perfect for sharing on social media!
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and embrace the joy of summer cooking.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Nectarines – Choose ripe, seasonal nectarines for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
• Burrata Cheese – This creamy delight adds richness; substitute with fresh mozzarella if you prefer.
• Prosciutto – Provides a savory, salty punch; omit for a vegetarian version or swap for smoked turkey.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Adds fresh acidity; grape tomatoes work just as well if you have them on hand.
• Heirloom Tomatoes – Their colorful variety enhances visuals and flavors; regular tomatoes can be a quick substitute.
• Fresh Cherries – Offers a sweet-tart profile; feel free to substitute with diced peaches or plums if they are out of season.
• Mixed Baby Spring Greens – The perfect crunchy element; any salad mix can also do the trick.
• Finishing Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper – Adjust for the perfect flavor balance; these enhance the overall dish.
For the Grilled Baguette
• Grilled Baguette – Adds delightful crunch; use gluten-free bread to make this salad suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Each ingredient in this Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad enhances your dining experience, inviting you to savor the true taste of summer.
How to Make Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by pitting and quartering the nectarines. Halve the cherry tomatoes and gently tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces. This sets the stage for a colorful salad!
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Grill Nectarines: Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the nectarines on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are beautifully charred yet still tender. The smokiness will enhance their natural sweetness.
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Make Vinaigrette: In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, lemon zest, minced oregano, mint, and thyme. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. This dressing brings everything together!
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Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the grilled nectarines, burrata, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, fresh cherries, and mixed baby spring greens. The variety of textures and colors is simply beautiful!
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Dress Salad: Drizzle the fresh vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Each bite should be bursting with flavor!
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Serve: Plate the salad and serve it alongside slices of grilled baguette for an added crunch. This presentation is sure to impress!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?
Elevate your summer dining experience by pairing delightful sides with this vibrant salad.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and garlic flavor complement the creamy burrata beautifully, making each bite a savory delight.
- Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass lightly echoes the fruity notes of the nectarines, enhancing the garden-fresh salad experience.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a smokiness that pairs well with the sweetness of the nectarines. Their charred flavor is the perfect addition!
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa not only provides an additional protein source but also contributes a pleasing chewiness that contrasts with the salad’s textures.
- Fresh Fruit Sorbet: Choose peach or raspberry for a refreshing dessert that highlights summertime flavors while cleansing the palate.
- Avocado Toast: The creamy texture of avocado on toasted bread matches perfectly with the ingredients, adding richness to your meal.
- Herbed Couscous: A light and fluffy couscous dish dressed with fresh herbs can round out your plate elegantly, bridging the flavors wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad components are fantastic for meal prep! You can grill the nectarines and prepare the vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance for convenience. Simply store the grilled nectarines in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming mushy. The vinaigrette can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making your assembly time a breeze. When you’re ready to serve, just toss together the salad ingredients with the dressing, and enjoy a fresh, delightful meal that tastes just as delicious as when made on the spot!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Variations
Feel free to make this delightful salad your own with these creative twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian Version: Omit the prosciutto for a lighter, vegetarian salad that highlights the nectarines and burrata.
A simple swap can yield a beautiful dish that’s just as satisfying. -
Fruity Twist: Substitute nectarines with peaches or plums for a different fruity profile.
Experimenting with seasonal favorites enhances the salad’s freshness and flavor. -
Herb Swap: Try using fresh basil or tarragon in the vinaigrette instead of oregano.
New herbs can invigorate the dressing, bringing an aromatic touch to each bite. -
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
Nuts not only provide a satisfying crunch but also boost healthy fats for added richness. -
Cheese Variation: Replace burrata with feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
These cheeses add a delightful creaminess while introducing a new flavor dynamic. -
Heat It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to the salad.
A touch of heat can beautifully enhance the sweet and savory elements of the dish. -
Baguette Alternative: Use gluten-free crackers or pita chips instead of grilled baguette.
This creates an easy, gluten-sensitive option while still maintaining crunch in the salad. -
Vibrant Addition: Toss in some arugula or spinach for extra greens and nutrition.
These leafy additions add a peppery flavor that elevates the salad’s complexity.
Storage Tips for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Keep the vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the grilled nectarines and burrata do not retain their texture after thawing.
Reheating: If you’ve stored the grilled baguette, reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispness before serving alongside your salad.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, such as grilling the nectarines and making the vinaigrette, storing them separately until ready to assemble your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.
Expert Tips for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
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Choose Ripe Nectarines: Select nectarines that yield slightly to pressure for the best sweetness and juiciness, enhancing your salad’s flavor profile.
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Grill Smartly: Grill nectarines for just 2-3 minutes on each side. Overcooking can lead to mushiness; you want those beautiful char marks without losing their firmness.
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Vinaigrette Balance: Taste your vinaigrette before dressing the salad. Adjust the acidity with more lemon juice or sweetness with honey, ensuring a perfect flavor harmony in your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.
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Mix Textures: Incorporate a variety of textures with the addition of crunchy nuts or seeds. They not only add flavor but also make your salad even more exciting.
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Serve Fresh: For the best experience, enjoy the salad right after assembling it. This preserves the fresh flavors and textures you’ll love in every bite.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing nectarines?
Select nectarines that yield slightly to pressure—this signifies ripeness and sweetness. Look for vibrant color and a fragrant aroma; avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate overripeness or damage.
What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. To keep the salad fresh, store the vinaigrette separately. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures every bite is crisp and flavorful.
Can I freeze the grilled nectarines?
It’s not advisable to freeze this salad as freezing can compromise the textures of both the grilled nectarines and burrata. If you want to freeze the grilled nectarines, cool them completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight.
What are some common problems when making this salad?
A common issue is overcooking the nectarines, which can turn them mushy. Make sure to grill them for just 2-3 minutes on each side, watching closely for those beautiful charred marks. If your vinaigrette is too acidic, try adding a teaspoon of honey to balance flavors.
Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This salad can easily be adapted for a vegetarian diet by skipping the prosciutto. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free baguette or omit the bread altogether. Just be mindful of any allergies to specific ingredients such as nuts or dairy.
Can I prepare any components of the salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing in advance is a great idea! You can grill the nectarines and whip up the vinaigrette a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad, simply assemble the prepared ingredients for a fresh and beautiful presentation.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad for Summer Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pitting and quartering the nectarines. Halve the cherry tomatoes and gently tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the nectarines on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until beautifully charred.
- In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, lemon zest, minced oregano, mint, and thyme. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the grilled nectarines, burrata, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, fresh cherries, and mixed baby spring greens.
- Drizzle the fresh vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Plate the salad and serve it alongside slices of grilled baguette.