Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata

Name: Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound); 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Author: Melon Claire

Published: June 22, 2025

Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad topped with creamy Burrata cheese

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Indulge your senses with the vibrant, fresh flavors of a Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata. This recipe offers a delightful mix of crisp textures and rich tastes, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

In this post, we’ll take you through a step-by-step journey of creating this aromatic salad that is visually stunning and incredibly satisfying. With every bite, you’ll experience the crunch of fresh asparagus and the sweet juiciness of ripe cherry tomatoes, enhanced by the creaminess of burrata cheese.

History / Fun Fact

The origins of this dish can be traced back to Italy, where fresh ingredients are the cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus and tomatoes are often paired together in salads that celebrate freshness. The addition of burrata—a classic Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream—elevates this dish to gourmet status. While asparagus is typically harvested in the spring, cherry tomatoes bring a burst of vibrant flavor during the summer months. This dish embodies the Italian philosophy of “cucina povera,” or “poor cooking,” which emphasizes the use of simple, high-quality ingredients to create memorable meals.

Ingredients

1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound): Tender, vibrant green spears that add a satisfying crunch to your salad.
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet, juicy morsels that burst in your mouth and provide a gorgeous splash of color.
8 ounces fresh burrata cheese: Creamy and rich, offering a luxurious texture that melts beautifully into the dish.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Aromatic oil that brings depth and enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Tangy and sweet, this vinegar ties the flavors together with its complex notes.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Fragrant and peppery, these leaves add an aromatic touch, completing the dish.

Cooking Time & Tips for Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata

When preparing fresh salads, you can opt for quick or slow preparation. Quick preparation involves quickly blanching and cooling the asparagus, allowing the salad to come together in less than 15 minutes. This method ensures you retain the bright color and crunch of the asparagus. On the other hand, a slow preparation style might involve roasting the tomatoes for extra depth of flavor, but this will elongate the cooking time.

Practical Tips for Success:

Always choose vibrant, firm asparagus and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
When blanching asparagus, make sure to immediately plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain that beautiful green hue.
Use high-quality burrata for a truly indulgent experience. The creaminess should ooze when torn apart.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing the asparagus and cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Discard any wilted leaves or damaged spears, ensuring you have only the freshest ingredients. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus, discarding about an inch or so from the bottom.
Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully immerse the asparagus spears into the boiling water and blanch for about 2 minutes. The goal is to achieve a bright green, tender-crisp texture. Once done, plunge the asparagus into an ice bath—an essential step to halt the cooking.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes. The contrast of colors will evoke a summer garden, bursting with freshness. With a gentle touch, drizzle the mixture with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add the Burrata: Tear the rich burrata cheese into pieces and toss it over the salad. Its creamy, luscious core will blend throughout, creating an irresistible lusciousness. The cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy tomatoes and crisp asparagus.
Finishing Touch: Gently fold in the fresh basil leaves, allowing their aroma to enhance the dish. Serve immediately to experience the freshness in every bite.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

The Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata shines at any gathering, from casual family dinners to elegant soirées. It makes an excellent starter for a refreshing brunch or accompanies grilled meats during summer barbecues. Pair it with crisp white wine or a sparkling beverage to enhance your dining experience. For a complete meal, serve it alongside crusty artisanal bread to soak up the delightful flavors.

Common Mistakes for Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata

When preparing this salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that could impact the final dish. One common mistake is overcooking the asparagus, which can result in a mushy texture. Remember, a quick blanch in boiling water followed by an ice bath is your best friend. Additionally, not using high-quality burrata or overly ripe tomatoes can diminish the dish’s flavor. Ensure the ingredients are fresh to highlight the simplicity and elegance of the salad.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

This salad is incredibly versatile. If you want to lighten it up even more, consider using a Greek yogurt-based dressing instead of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier. Explore adding other seasonal veggies, like radishes or bell peppers, for added crunch and color.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the asparagus and tomatoes ahead. Assemble right before serving.
What can I use instead of burrata?
- Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can be great substitutes if burrata isn’t available.
Can I roast the asparagus instead of blanching?
- Yes, roasting adds a different dimension of flavor. Toss the asparagus with olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes.
How do I choose ripe cherry tomatoes?
- Look for tomatoes that are plump, firm, and free of blemishes. Heirloom varieties can also add a beautiful array of colors.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
- Fresh asparagus yields the best results for this salad, but if frozen is all you have, thaw it and use it carefully to avoid mushiness.

Conclusion

This Fresh Asparagus Tomato Salad with Burrata is a celebration of flavor, color, and texture. It invites you into the kitchen to bask in the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors and inviting aromas will coax you to take a bite, making it hard to resist. Don’t wait—experiment with this gorgeous salad today and elevate your meal experience!