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How to Make Grilled Asparagus and Cherry Tomato Salad with Burrata
- Prepare the Asparagus and Tomatoes
Start by trimming the tough ends of the asparagus. You can do this by bending the asparagus gently until it snaps at the natural breaking point. Drizzle the asparagus with a bit of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. For the cherry tomatoes, simply slice them in half and set aside. - Grill the Vegetables
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the asparagus spears on the grill, making sure they’re spaced out evenly. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and has nice grill marks. For the cherry tomatoes, place them cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly charred and softened. - Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like a little extra zing, you can add some freshly grated lemon zest to the vinaigrette for a fresh citrus twist. - Assemble the Salad
Arrange the grilled asparagus and cherry tomatoes on a serving platter or individual plates. Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter it over the grilled vegetables. If you prefer, you can also serve the burrata whole and allow your guests to cut into it themselves for an added touch of drama. - Drizzle with Dressing
Once your salad is plated, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the top, making sure to coat the vegetables and cheese evenly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately while the vegetables are still warm, allowing the burrata to soften slightly. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal or side dish.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Asparagus and Cherry Tomato Salad
- Use Fresh Burrata
Burrata cheese is best when it’s fresh and creamy. If you can find it at your local farmer’s market or specialty store, it’s well worth the extra effort. Its rich, creamy center will elevate the whole dish. - Don’t Overcook the Asparagus
Asparagus can quickly turn mushy if overcooked. Aim for a slight char on the outside while keeping the inside tender and crisp. This balance will give you the perfect texture that complements the creamy burrata. - Try Different Tomatoes
While cherry tomatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can experiment with different varieties of tomatoes depending on what’s in season. Heirloom tomatoes or grape tomatoes can add a unique flavor profile to the dish. - Make It Your Own
This salad is versatile and can easily be customized to your taste. Add in some arugula for a peppery bite, sprinkle on some toasted pine nuts for crunch, or even drizzle with a bit of pesto for added richness.
Why This Salad Is Perfect for Summer
With its fresh, light ingredients and vibrant flavors, this Grilled Asparagus and Cherry Tomato Salad with Burrata is the ultimate summer dish. The combination of grilled vegetables and creamy burrata is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it the perfect complement to outdoor meals or picnics.
It’s a salad that feels indulgent yet healthy, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual lunch. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and easy, elevating your summer meals to a whole new level.
So fire up the grill, grab some fresh produce, and treat yourself to this delicious, vibrant salad that’s sure to become a go-to recipe for sunny days ahead.
