Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is a delightful summer dish that combines sweet, juicy nectarines with creamy burrata and savory prosciutto. This refreshing salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner on a warm evening. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of total time, this salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The grilled nectarines and fresh herbs create a delicious mix of sweet and savory tastes that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish. It’s perfect for gatherings or casual meals alike.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and greens, this salad is not only tasty but also healthy.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad as beautiful as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the nectarines, enhancing their flavor through caramelization.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing the salad ingredients together without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the vinaigrette ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.

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 some olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Nectarines

Place the nectarine slices on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see grill marks forming. Flip them over and repeat the cooking process for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the vinaigrette. Set it aside so that flavors can meld together while you prepare the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomato slices, cherries, and prepared vinaigrette. Gently toss everything together.

Step 5: Add Burrata and Prosciutto

Top your salad with torn pieces of burrata cheese and slices of prosciutto. Sprinkle any remaining fresh herbs on top along with ground black pepper. Finish by garnishing with finishing salt.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad alongside toasted baguette slices for an added crunch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a light lunch or as an elegant appetizer at dinner parties, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Individual Plates

• Serve each portion on a separate plate for an elegant presentation.
• Add a drizzle of the vinaigrette over each serving to enhance flavor.

Family Style

• Place the salad in a large bowl and let guests serve themselves.
• This style encourages sharing and allows everyone to customize their plate.

With Toasted Baguette

• Accompany the salad with slices of grilled baguette.
• The toasted bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy burrata.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include this salad in a brunch buffet alongside other light dishes.
• It pairs well with mimosas or iced tea for a refreshing meal.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Top the salad with additional fresh herbs like basil or chives.
• Extra herbs can elevate the flavor and add vibrant color.

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How to Perfect Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

To achieve the best results with your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use ripe nectarines: Choose nectarines that are slightly soft to ensure sweetness and juiciness.
• Grill at medium-high heat: This temperature helps to achieve those perfect grill marks without overcooking the fruit.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh tomatoes, greens, and herbs for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Balance flavors: Adjust the vinaigrette ingredients according to your taste preferences, ensuring a nice balance between acidity and sweetness.
• Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing it together. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with textures: Incorporate nuts or seeds for added crunch if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and flavor; toss them lightly in olive oil before grilling.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and mint can complement the freshness of the main dish while adding protein.
3. Chickpea Hummus: Serve with pita chips for dipping; this creamy dip pairs well with the flavors in your salad.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a hearty side that balances the lightness of the salad.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers make for easy finger food that echoes flavors of Italian cuisine.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can refresh your palate and bring out the sweetness of grilled nectarines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the grilling step: Failing to grill the nectarines can result in missing out on that smoky flavor. Always take the time to grill them properly.

• Overcooking the prosciutto: Cooking prosciutto too long can make it tough and chewy. Just add it as a topping once the salad is assembled for the best texture.

• Not balancing flavors: Too much sweetness from the fruits without acidity can make the dish one-dimensional. Be sure to balance with enough lemon juice and vinegar in your vinaigrette.

• Ignoring freshness: Using stale ingredients can ruin your salad. Opt for fresh, seasonal produce for maximum flavor and nutrition.

• Forgetting finishing touches: Skipping the finishing salt or herbs may leave your salad lacking complexity. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or salt enhances all the flavors beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep burrata separate until ready to serve for best texture.

Freezing Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as vegetables and cheese do not thaw well.

Reheating Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm in a baking dish for about 10 minutes or until heated through, but avoid melting burrata excessively.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can change textures.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps retain more flavors without losing moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad:

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

Yes! Peaches or plums work wonderfully as substitutes if nectarines are unavailable.

What type of greens should I use in this salad?

Mixed baby spring greens complement the sweet and savory elements well, but feel free to mix it up with arugula or spinach.

Is this salad suitable for a summer gathering?

Absolutely! The Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is perfect for summer gatherings with its refreshing flavors and vibrant colors.

How can I customize my Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even switch up the cheese with feta for a different taste profile!

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is an ideal blend of flavors and textures that celebrates summer produce beautifully. It’s versatile enough to adapt based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Give it a try, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!