As the sun begins to warm the days of summer, I find myself craving vibrant, fresh flavors that capture the essence of the season. Recently, while wandering through my local farmer’s market, the sweet, golden sun gold tomatoes caught my eye, and I knew exactly what to create: a Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata and crispy panko breadcrumbs.
This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful balance of creamy burrata, juicy tomatoes, and a satisfying crunch that will change the way you think about salads. In just 10 minutes, you can savor the simplicity of this fresh, vegetarian delight that’s perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this salad brings the taste of summer directly to your table—without any fuss! Dive into this recipe and elevate your warm-weather dining experience with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Why Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata Is Irresistible?
Quick preparation: With only 10 minutes needed, this salad fits perfectly into your busy summer schedule.
Flavor explosion: The combination of sweet sun gold tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a symphony of taste that captures the essence of summer.
Textural contrast: The crispy panko breadcrumbs elevate this dish, providing a delightful crunch against the smooth cheese and juicy tomatoes.
Endless versatility: Mix things up by substituting with fresh mozzarella or adding proteins like grilled shrimp for a different spin.
Impressive presentation: Its vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece, sure to impress at any gathering or dinner table.
Fresh ingredients matter: Using seasonal produce enhances both flavor and quality, ensuring each bite is simply divine. If you love easy-to-make, beautiful dishes, check out our expert tips for making this salad exceptional!
Ingredients for Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata
For the Salad
• Sun Gold Tomatoes – A sweet, fruity variety that adds vibrant color and flavor; substitution: any ripe yellow or orange tomato can work in its place.
• Burrata Cheese – Soft, creamy cheese that provides rich texture; substitution: fresh mozzarella can be used if burrata is unavailable.
• Fresh Baby Basil Leaves – Adds aromatic freshness and a pop of color; tip: use larger leaves for garnish if preferred.
• Maldon Sea Salt – Enhances flavors with its flaky texture; tip: adjust amount based on taste preference.
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – For seasoning and flavor enhancement.
• Olive Oil – For drizzling to add richness and moisture.
• Toasted Crostini – Serves as a crunchy accompaniment for serving; tip: use thinly sliced baguette, toasted until crisp.
For the Topping
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Create a crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy burrata.
• Olive Oil (for Breadcrumbs) – Adds flavor when sautéing breadcrumbs.
• Butter – Increases richness of the breadcrumbs.
• Garlic – Adds savory depth to the breadcrumb mixture.
Elevate your summer dining experience with this splendid Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata recipe!
How to Make Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata
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Prepare Breadcrumbs: Heat olive oil and butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add panko and sauté for 3-5 minutes until golden brown; stir in the garlic for the last 30 seconds. Remove from heat and drain on paper towel.
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Assemble Salad: On a wide platter, gently tear the burrata into pieces and arrange it alongside quartered sun gold tomatoes for a vibrant display.
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Top and Serve: Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs generously over the tomatoes and burrata. Finish with a garnish of fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve with toasted crostini on the side.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an extra depth of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata?
Elevate your summer gatherings with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors and textures of this refreshing salad.
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Crispy Crostini:
The perfect crunchy contrast, crostini serves as a delightful scoop for the creamy burrata and juicy tomatoes. -
Grilled Vegetables:
Charred zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky depth to your meal, enhancing the fresh salad’s sweetness. -
Fresh Herb Quinoa Salad:
A light quinoa salad dressed with lemon and herbs brings extra nutrients and a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully. -
Garlic Butter Shrimp:
Tender, buttery shrimp infused with garlic create a luxurious addition, making the meal more satisfying and flavorful.
Consider serving a chilled glass of white wine alongside for an appealing wine pairing experience.
- Lemon Sorbet:
End your meal with a refreshing lemon sorbet, cleansing the palate and providing a sweet, tangy finish to your summer feast.
Your Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata comes alive with these pairings—bringing together flavors and textures that will delight every guest!
Make Ahead Options
These Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crispy panko breadcrumbs up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. Additionally, you can quarter the sun gold tomatoes and wash the fresh basil up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerating them separately to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply tear the burrata cheese and assemble the salad. Drizzle with olive oil, season with Maldon sea salt and black pepper, and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top. This way, you can enjoy a beautiful and delicious summer dish with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Select perfectly ripe sun gold tomatoes for maximum sweetness; underripe tomatoes can result in a lackluster flavor.
- Crisp Breadcrumbs: Ensure panko is sautéed until golden brown for the best crunch. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Burrata Handling: Gently tear burrata instead of slicing to maintain its creamy texture, giving your salad a rustic look.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for high-quality burrata and fresh basil; their flavors enhance your Sun Gold Tomato Caprese significantly.
- Balance Seasoning: Taste and adjust Maldon sea salt and black pepper to your preference; a little can elevate the dish immensely.
Variations & Substitutions for Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that’ll make your Caprese experience uniquely yours!
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Herb Swap: Use fresh mint or oregano instead of basil for a fresh flavor twist. Each herb brings its own character and elevates the dish to new heights.
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Add Protein: Top with grilled shrimp or chicken to transform this salad into a heartier main dish. These options not only add protein but also create a deliciously satisfying meal.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or slices of jalapeño for a spicy variation. A hint of heat balances the creaminess of the burrata, making each bite delightful.
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Oil Infusion: Opt for herb-infused olive oil instead of regular olive oil for drizzling. Rosemary or garlic-infused oil will add an aromatic touch that enhances the entire dish.
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Nutty Texture: Mix in toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds to boost the crunch factor. They’ll add a delightful nuttiness while providing an extra layer of texture to the salad.
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Fruit Fusion: Try adding sliced peaches or cherries for a sweet twist. The combination of fruity notes with savory ingredients creates a truly memorable flavor explosion.
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Cheese Variation: Use fresh mozzarella if burrata isn’t available; it still provides that creamy experience, though with a slightly firmer texture.
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Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet-tart finish. This glaze not only complements the tomatoes and burrata beautifully but also adds a touch of elegance and depth.
How to Store and Freeze Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; avoid mixing in breadcrumbs until ready to serve for optimal texture.
Freezer: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze just the panko breadcrumbs for up to 1 month; reheat them before serving for crunch.
Room Temperature: Serve your fresh Sun Gold Tomato Caprese at room temperature for the best flavor; avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to keep ingredients safe.
Reheating: If you have leftover burrata or tomatoes, gently warm them in the microwave or at room temperature; avoid reheating the salad once assembled.
Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe Sun Gold tomatoes?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly tender when gently squeezed, with a deep golden color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. If you can’t find Sun Gold tomatoes, any ripe yellow or orange tomato will work wonderfully as a substitute.
How should I store leftovers from my Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata?
To keep your salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the crispy panko breadcrumbs separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch. Just pop them into the salad right before enjoying!
Can I freeze any part of the Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze just the panko breadcrumbs for up to 1 month. To freeze, let them cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to use them, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crispy again—just like you made them fresh!
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What should I do if my panko breadcrumbs burn while cooking?
Very! If your breadcrumbs start to burn, lower the heat immediately and keep stirring to ensure even cooking. If they do burn, it’s best to start with a new batch, as burnt breadcrumbs can give off a bitter flavor that detracts from the salad’s taste.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies or vegan preferences, consider substituting burrata with a plant-based cheese or even skipping it altogether for a lighter version. Additionally, if you’re making this salad for pets, remember that garlic can be harmful to them, so it’s best to keep that out of their reach.
Can I make the components of this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep individual components like the breadcrumbs and tomatoes a few hours in advance. Just store each in an airtight container in the refrigerator and assemble the salad right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Sun Gold Tomato Caprese with Burrata: A Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil and butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add panko and sauté for 3-5 minutes until golden brown; stir in the garlic for the last 30 seconds. Remove from heat and drain on paper towel.
- On a wide platter, gently tear the burrata into pieces and arrange it alongside quartered sun gold tomatoes for a vibrant display.
- Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs generously over the tomatoes and burrata. Finish with a garnish of fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve with toasted crostini on the side.