Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

The Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is the perfect dish to celebrate summer’s bounty. With juicy grilled nectarines and a medley of fresh ingredients, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Ideal for picnics, dinner parties, or as a light main course, it combines sweet and savory elements that make every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: The combination of grilled nectarines, burrata cheese, and prosciutto creates a flavor explosion that perfectly balances sweetness and saltiness.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes needed from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to various diets and preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually stunning, sure to impress your guests.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with fresh fruits and greens, this salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools at hand is essential. Below are some must-haves for preparing the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: This tool is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the nectarines while enhancing their flavor through caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine the vinaigrette and salad ingredients efficiently without making a mess.

Ingredients

The best way to enjoy juicy summertime nectarines, grilled up with cherries, tomatoes, burrata cheese, sliced prosciutto, drizzled with a lemon herb vinaigrette.

For the Salad

• 4 nectarines, pitted and quartered
• 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn
• 8 slices prosciutto
• 4 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 heirloom tomatoes, halved and cut into eighths
• 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup mixed baby spring greens
• Finishing salt, fresh ground black pepper
• Grilled baguette, for serving

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, roughly minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, roughly minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Pinch of salt, fresh ground black pepper as desired

How to Make Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Slice the nectarines into eighths and lightly brush them with olive oil.

Step 2: Grill the Nectarines

Place nectarine slices on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until grill marks form and they soften slightly. Flip them over and repeat for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients needed for the vinaigrette. Set aside so flavors can meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomato slices, halved cherries, and vinaigrette until everything is coated evenly. Top with torn burrata cheese and slices of prosciutto.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle any remaining fresh herbs over the top along with freshly ground black pepper and finishing salt as desired. Serve with toasted baguette on the side for an added crunch.

How to Serve Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings. It’s fresh, vibrant, and versatile, allowing for various serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of the salad on individual plates as a refreshing starter.
• Pair it with a crisp white wine to complement the flavors.

With Grilled Baguette

• Accompany the salad with slices of grilled baguette.
• The toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch and serves as a great base for the burrata.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy the salad as a light main dish for lunch or dinner.
• Add more greens or grains like quinoa for extra heartiness.

At a Buffet

• Present the salad in a large bowl at your next barbecue or potluck.
• This colorful dish will attract guests and add variety to the buffet spread.

For Meal Prep

• Pack the salad in jars or containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

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How to Perfect Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

To make your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad truly exceptional, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose ripe nectarines: Look for nectarines that are slightly soft to the touch; this ensures they are sweet and juicy.
• Grill with care: Avoid overcooking the nectarines; they should be warm and just tender, preserving their natural sweetness.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano, mint, and lemon thyme will elevate your vinaigrette, adding layers of flavor.
• Add texture: Incorporate nuts like toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch in each bite.
• Balance flavors: Adjust the acidity in your vinaigrette by tasting as you mix. A little extra lemon juice can brighten up the dish.
• Serve immediately: For optimal flavor and texture, serve this salad right after preparing it.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad can create an even more enjoyable meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil complement the salad beautifully.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer a classic Italian touch that pairs well with burrata.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta adds protein and makes your meal more filling.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad: The sweetness of watermelon mixed with salty feta creates a refreshing contrast perfect for summer feasting.
5. Herbed Couscous: Lightly seasoned couscous topped with fresh herbs adds texture and balances flavors nicely.
6. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes roasted with garlic provide comfort food appeal alongside this elegant salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delightful dish.

• Ignoring Ripeness: Using under-ripe nectarines can lead to a less flavorful salad. Always choose ripe nectarines that yield slightly when pressed for the best taste.
• Overcooking Nectarines: Grilling for too long can turn nectarines mushy. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side to achieve perfect grill marks and tenderness.
• Skipping the Vinaigrette: A bland salad can result from neglecting the vinaigrette. Make sure to whisk together all ingredients and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Overloading with Toppings: Adding too many ingredients can overshadow the main flavors. Stick to the recipe’s balance for an enjoyable experience.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate your salad’s flavor. Don’t skip them; they add brightness and freshness that complements other ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep ingredients fresh.
• • Separation: Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

• • Duration: Not recommended for freezing as it may alter texture.
• • Ingredients: If you must freeze, consider only freezing grilled nectarines without other components.

Reheating Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating burrata as it can become rubbery.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about specifics regarding the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad, here are some answers.

Can I use other fruits in the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?

Yes! Peaches or plums work wonderfully in place of nectarines for similar sweetness and texture.

How do I make this salad vegetarian?

Simply omit the prosciutto and add more vegetables or nuts for added texture without sacrificing flavor.

What dressing pairs well with Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?

The lemon herb vinaigrette is excellent, but you can also try a balsamic glaze for a sweeter option.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep individual components in advance but combine them just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is not only vibrant and refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by incorporating your favorite seasonal fruits or greens. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner at home. Try this delightful recipe today!