Why Are We Still Cooking Heavy Meals in the Summer? Craving a Fresh, Quick Summer Meal? Try This Easy Dinner Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata for a Sweet-Savory Twist on a Classic. Discover the Recipe!
When temperatures rise, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours over a hot stove. So why are many summer dinner recipes still time-consuming and heavy?
In fact, a 2022 survey by Statista showed that 68% of Americans prefer quick, no-cook meals during hot months. Craving a fresh, quick summer meal? Try this Easy Dinner Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata for a sweet-savory twist on a classic. Discover the recipe that’s ready in just minutes and will immediately elevate your summer dinner routine with seasonal flavor, vibrant colors, and creamy indulgence—all while keeping your kitchen cool.
Ingredients List
This Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata takes a beloved Italian salad and gives it a seasonal upgrade with in-season peaches and decadent burrata cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large ripe peaches – Juicy and sweet, perfectly ripe peaches bring that summery pop.
- 8 oz. cherry tomatoes – Opt for a mix of colors for visual appeal and flavor depth.
- 2 balls of fresh burrata cheese (about 8 oz.) – Creamy and delicate, burrata is the showstopper of this salad.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves – Torn delicately to release its aromatic oils.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – A quality EVOO makes a huge difference in flavor.
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze – Adds a hint of sweet acidity that balances the dish.
- Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper – To taste.
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap peaches for nectarines or figs during late summer.
- Use heirloom tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for a rustic feel.
- Vegan? Sub burrata for soft cashew cheese or almond ricotta.
Timing
You’ll love how minimally invasive this dish is—it’s a real weeknight hero.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 10 minutes (That’s 60% faster than the average 25-minute salad recipe!)
According to a USDA report, most home cooks spend 37 minutes on dinner prep—this recipe shaves off nearly 75% of that.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Slice peaches into thin wedges. Leave the skin on for extra nutrients and texture, or peel if you prefer a softer bite.
Expert Tip: A ripe peach gives slightly when pressed. Too firm? Let it ripen in a paper bag for 24 hours.
Step 2: Halve the Tomatoes
Cut cherry tomatoes in half to release their juices. If using heirloom varieties, slice into quarters.
Flavor Tip: Lightly salt the tomatoes and let them sit for 5 minutes to coax out more sweetness.
Step 3: Arrange the Salad
On a large serving plate, layer peaches and tomatoes. Tear the burrata gently and nestle it between the fruit.
Pro Presentation: Alternate colors for a visual “wow” factor—like a rainbow on your plate.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs
Tear basil leaves with your hands (not a knife) to prevent oxidation and bitterness.
Step 5: Dress and Finish
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.
Benchmark Your Bite: Taste before serving—seasoning is key to elevating the natural sweetness of the peaches.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (serves 2–3) contains approximate values based on USDA FoodData Central:
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 26g (primarily from EVOO and burrata)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 11g (natural, from peach and tomato)
- Fiber: 3g
This salad provides a rich source of vitamin C, potassium, and healthy fats—a satiating meal for warm evenings.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want more nutrition-boosted variations? Here are a few creative ideas:
- Low-fat option: Use light mozzarella or swap burrata with vegan cashew-based cheese for a plant-based version.
- Extra protein: Add grilled chicken breast or chickpeas without altering the flavor profile.
- Low-sodium: Replace sea salt with potassium salt for heart health.
- Low-carb: Sub cherry tomatoes with sliced cucumbers to reduce natural sugars.
Serving Suggestions
This burrata salad is a versatile summer dish—perfect for casual dinners or classy events.
- Pair with: A chilled glass of rosé or a prosecco spritz for aperitivo hour.
- Serve with: Toasted sourdough crostini, grilled naan, or over a bed of arugula for a fuller salad experience.
- Entertaining tip: Serve on a wood platter with edible flowers like nasturtiums for a rustic yet upscale vibe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Unripe Peaches
Underripe peaches won’t bring the honeyed flavor you need. Always test your fruit before slicing.
Overdressing the Salad
Too much olive oil or glaze can overpower delicate burrata. A little goes a long way.
Cutting Basil with Metal
Metal knives can bruise fragrant basil leaves. Always tear by hand.
Serving Cold Burrata Straight from the Fridge
Always let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for optimum creaminess.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Want to prep ahead? Here’s how to keep this salad fresh:
- Prep ingredients separately: Slice peaches and tomatoes and store in airtight containers. Add basil and burrata only before serving.
- Refrigerator shelf life: Consume within 24 hours. Fruit may release too much liquid after that.
- Extra tip: Keep burrata submerged in its own whey or filtered water in the fridge to retain its creamy interior.
Conclusion
This Easy Dinner Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata is your new go-to summer meal: vibrant, fresh, minimally prepped, and deeply satisfying. It’s a visual and sensory delight that checks every summer dinner box—no oven time required! Craving a fresh, quick summer meal? Try this Easy Dinner Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata for a sweet-savory twist on a classic. Discover the recipe and redefine what summer dining means to you.
Ready to elevate your summer table? Try this salad tonight, take a picture, and tag your creation on social media! For more fresh meal ideas, check out our post on Grilled Summer Vegetable Flatbread or No-Cook Mediterranean Bowls!
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Fresh peaches bring a texture and flavor that canned fruits can’t match. If using canned, opt for unsweetened and drain well.
What’s the difference between burrata and mozzarella?
Burrata is mozzarella’s richer cousin—while mozzarella is firm, burrata has a creamy, stracciatella-filled center. It offers a more indulgent bite that elevates this salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for a picnic?
Yes, but keep ingredients separate. Assemble right before eating to avoid a soggy salad—bring dressing in a small jar for easy transport.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The mild flavors and sweet peaches make it a hit with kids—just cut the ingredients into smaller, manageable pieces.
What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
Try a drizzle of honey with a touch of lemon juice or aged sherry vinegar. The goal is to balance the acidity and sweetness.