Burrata Caprese Salad with Prosciutto and Arugula is a luxurious twist on the traditional Italian favorite. With creamy burrata in place of mozzarella, peppery arugula, juicy tomatoes, salty prosciutto, and a tangy balsamic drizzle, this no-cook salad feels both elegant and effortless. It’s perfect as a summer appetizer, a light lunch, or a shareable dish for special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 oz burrata (1 large ball or 2 smaller ones)

• 4 cups arugula

• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil

• ½ tsp balsamic vinegar

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup fresh tomatoes, halved and thinly sliced (e.g., Roma)

• 3 oz prosciutto

• 1 tbsp pesto

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction

• 1 handful fresh basil, thinly sliced

Directions

1. Prep the Burrata
Drain the burrata and let it come to room temperature while preparing the other ingredients.

2. Dress the Arugula
In a large mixing bowl, toss arugula with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad
Spread the dressed arugula on a large serving dish. Arrange tomato slices evenly over the greens.
Tuck and twirl prosciutto slices between the tomatoes. Place the burrata ball in the center.

4. Add Toppings
Drizzle the salad with pesto and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with fresh basil.

5. Serve Immediately
Cut into the burrata and enjoy right away with a fork, knife, or crusty bread.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 of 2 servings):

• Calories: 412

• Protein: 17g

• Fat: 36g

• Carbohydrates: 11g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 659mg

• Vitamin A: 2553 IU

• Vitamin C: 22mg

• Calcium: 394mg

• Iron: 1mg

Elevating the Classic Caprese

While the traditional Caprese salad is made with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this version takes it up a notch. Burrata offers a richer, creamier bite that contrasts beautifully with the crisp arugula and sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes. Prosciutto introduces a savory depth and satisfying chew, transforming the salad into a more filling and balanced dish. The peppery arugula acts as a bold counterpoint to the creaminess of the burrata, and the pesto adds a burst of herbaceous flavor that deepens the complexity.

Together, these components make every bite dynamic—creamy, juicy, salty, fresh, and tangy.

The Importance of High-Quality Ingredients

With a dish this simple and uncooked, quality matters. Burrata should be fresh and served at room temperature to ensure maximum creaminess. Choose vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for their natural sweetness and firm texture. Arugula should be fresh, crisp, and deeply green. For the prosciutto, look for imported or high-quality domestic versions that are thinly sliced and delicately cured.

Use extra virgin olive oil and a thick, tangy balsamic glaze to finish the dish. These elements elevate each bite and bring cohesion to the contrasting flavors.

A Visual and Flavorful Presentation

The beauty of this salad is in its presentation. The burrata, placed in the center, becomes the star of the plate—inviting diners to cut it open and let the creamy center spill out across the salad. The tomatoes add color and sweetness, while the prosciutto offers movement and texture when artfully folded between ingredients.

The drizzle of pesto and balsamic glaze not only introduces additional flavors but also creates a visually striking pattern against the white cheese and green arugula. Topping it all off with thinly sliced fresh basil adds aroma and elegance.

This dish can be served on a platter for sharing or plated individually for a more refined dining experience.

Customizations and Substitutes

This recipe is highly versatile and can be adjusted based on seasonal ingredients or dietary preferences:

• Replace arugula with baby spinach or mixed greens for a milder base

• Use cherry tomatoes or multicolored heirloom varieties for extra sweetness and visual appeal

• Swap prosciutto for serrano ham or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option

• Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy element

• For a vegan version, substitute burrata with plant-based mozzarella and omit prosciutto

You can also serve the salad with grilled bread, crostini, or focaccia to turn it into a shareable appetizer or light meal.

Perfect for Warm Weather and Entertaining

This salad is especially ideal in the warmer months when tomatoes and basil are in season. It’s refreshing, easy to assemble, and doesn’t require turning on the stove. The combination of creamy, salty, and tangy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at picnics, garden parties, and brunches. It also works well as part of a grazing board or antipasto spread.

Because it’s served chilled or at room temperature, it’s also a great make-ahead option. You can prep all the components in advance and assemble just before serving.

Health and Nutritional Highlights

Despite its indulgent taste, this salad offers a number of nutritional benefits. Burrata provides calcium and protein, while arugula and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Prosciutto, though higher in sodium, adds flavor in small amounts without needing additional seasoning. Olive oil and pesto contribute healthy fats, and basil adds anti-inflammatory properties.

With approximately 412 calories per serving, this salad is well-balanced in protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it a wholesome option when paired with whole-grain bread or additional veggies.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the burrata come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before serving to maximize its creamy texture

• Dress the arugula lightly so it remains crisp and doesn’t get soggy

• Slice the tomatoes thinly or halve cherry tomatoes for easier eating and better visual appeal

• Use a thick balsamic reduction rather than regular vinegar for a glossy, sweet finish that doesn’t run

• Assemble just before serving to maintain the freshness and integrity of each component

Store leftovers (if any) in an airtight container, but keep in mind that the salad is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Burrata Caprese Salad with Prosciutto and Arugula is the epitome of simple sophistication. It transforms classic ingredients into something indulgent and memorable, all without cooking a thing. Rich and creamy burrata pairs beautifully with salty prosciutto, fresh tomatoes, and peppery greens, while pesto and balsamic glaze add luxurious finishing touches. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer gathering, an elegant lunch, or just treating yourself to something special, this salad delivers balanced flavor, texture, and beauty in every bite.