Peach Burrata Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Recipe for Burrata with Peaches and Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar

Ingredients (4 servings):

• 1 (4 ounce) ball burrata cheese, at room temperature
• 1 ripe peach, sliced
• 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons raspberry balsamic vinegar
• Flaked sea salt, to taste
• 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Directions:

1. Gently tear open the burrata cheese to expose its soft, creamy core and place it in the center of a plate.
2. Arrange the peach slices around and on top of the burrata cheese.
3. Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
4. In a small saucepan, bring the raspberry balsamic vinegar to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the vinegar thickens into a syrupy consistency.
5. Drizzle the balsamic syrup over the peaches and burrata cheese, ensuring even coverage.
6. Finish the dish by seasoning with flaked sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Cook's Note:

Burrata is an Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, with a soft, creamy interior. If you can't find burrata, feel free to substitute it with fresh mozzarella. The raspberry balsamic vinegar adds a sweet-tart note that complements the creamy cheese and juicy peaches beautifully, but regular balsamic vinegar can also be used if preferred.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving the dish on a bed of fresh arugula.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 159
• Total Fat: 13g (16% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 20mg (7% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 176mg (8% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 4g (1% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (0% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 4g (8% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (12% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 5mg (0% Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (1% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 13mg (0% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. If you're following a medically restricted diet, consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

The Peach Burrata Salad is a beautiful and delicious dish that perfectly blends the sweetness of ripe peaches with the creamy richness of burrata cheese. It is dressed with a tangy raspberry balsamic syrup, creating a balance of flavors that make it a delightful appetizer or light summer meal. But what makes this dish truly special? Its history, regional roots, and unique combinations are just as intriguing as its taste.

History and Origin

The origins of the Peach Burrata Salad are rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Italy, where both burrata cheese and balsamic vinegar have long histories. Burrata, which means "buttered" in Italian, is a fresh cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It originated in Puglia, a region in southern Italy, and was initially created as a way to use leftover mozzarella. Peaches, on the other hand, are believed to have originated in China but were popularized in Europe after being brought over through trade routes in the 17th century. The pairing of peaches with burrata likely emerged in modern Italian cuisine, where there is a strong tradition of pairing cheese with fresh fruits for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Regional Features

While this salad has strong Italian influences, the specific combination of burrata and peaches, along with raspberry balsamic vinegar, is more commonly found in contemporary Italian cooking, particularly in the summer months. In Italy, you will often find burrata served with fresh tomatoes, arugula, or even prosciutto, but the use of fruit like peaches adds a refreshing twist, perfect for the warm weather. In certain regions, such as Tuscany, balsamic vinegar is a key ingredient in many dishes, and its use in this salad brings a distinct depth of flavor.

Difference from Similar Dishes

The Peach Burrata Salad stands out from other similar dishes because of its unique combination of ingredients. Unlike traditional mozzarella or caprese salads, which typically feature tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, this salad swaps in the creamy, delicate burrata and adds juicy peaches, offering a sweet and savory profile that is both unexpected and satisfying. The addition of raspberry balsamic syrup intensifies the flavors, making this salad a more complex and layered dish. Additionally, the pairing of creamy cheese with fresh fruit is a hallmark of modern Italian cuisine, bringing a new twist to classic flavors.

Where It's Served

The Peach Burrata Salad is typically served as an appetizer or a light main dish during the warmer months, especially at outdoor gatherings or alfresco dining. It is ideal for summer parties, picnics, or casual dinners where fresh ingredients are the star of the show. The dish is often accompanied by a crisp glass of white wine, making it the perfect pairing for an easygoing, refreshing meal. In some upscale restaurants, this salad might be served as part of a larger antipasto platter, where it can be enjoyed alongside other fine cheeses and cured meats.

Interesting Facts

1. Burrata cheese, with its delicate outer shell and creamy interior, is a relatively recent creation, dating back to the early 1900s in Puglia, Italy. It was invented by cheesemaker Andria, who wanted to find a way to use leftover mozzarella.

2. Peaches are a symbol of immortality and good luck in Chinese culture. The fruit was often associated with longevity and was highly prized in ancient times.

3. Balsamic vinegar, particularly the aged variety, is an essential element in Italian cooking. True traditional balsamic vinegar is made from cooked grape juice and aged for several years, giving it a rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and tart.

4. The pairing of burrata with fruit, particularly stone fruits like peaches, is a growing trend in modern Italian cuisine. This combination enhances the richness of the cheese while offering a refreshing contrast to its creamy texture.

Whether you're preparing this for a family meal or serving it at a dinner party, the Peach Burrata Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of Italian ingredients with a fresh, seasonal twist. Its sweet-savory balance and beautiful presentation make it a dish that is both a treat for the taste buds and the eyes.

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