Tomato and Burrata Salad with Za'atar at the Table

This Tomato and Burrata Salad with Za’atar is not just a salad – it’s a vibrant, herbaceous, and savory masterpiece reminiscent of a caprese, but with a tasty twist. Featuring za’atar-coated burrata cheese balls, fresh tomatoes, and a medley of savory herbs, this salad is a speedy assembly that delivers a five-star restaurant experience right to your table.

What Is Burrata?

Burrata is a type of soft, Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. On the outside, it looks like fresh mozzarella.

However, when sliced into burrata is gooey and soft. It’s rich and subtly sweet, and some people even compare its flavor to butter!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Burrata – Use small balls of burrata. Find them in the refrigerated cheese section of your local grocery store!
Za’atar Seasoning – This is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend full of savory, herbaceous flavor.
Tomatoes – We like to use grape tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes will also work.
Olive Oil – This helps combine the ingredients and adds a peppery taste. Use a high-quality olive oil that you love!
Garlic Cloves – For the finest flavor, use whole cloves and mince them yourself.
Fresh Mint – This adds a pop of color and bright notes that balance out some of the savoriness of the za’atar.
Salt and Black Pepper – Adjust to taste.
Dried Oregano – If fresh oregano is all you have, use about ⅓ more.

Possible Flavor Variations

Swap the seasonings – Feel free to mix and match different herbs and spices like basil, onion powder, and red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor even more.
Add balsamic – Add notes of sweetness with a drizzle of your go-to balsamic vinegar on top.
Add veggies – Add even more nutrients and texture with the addition of extra veggies such as sliced red onion, chopped cucumber, and corn.
Include protein – Transform this side dish into a meal with the addition of shrimp, chicken, or steak.

Upgrade Your Salad Game with This Tomato and Burrata Salad

Prepare the Tomato Mixture

Combine the olive oil, grated garlic, mint, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a mixing bowl.
Add the halved tomatoes, and toss to combine and coat.

Coat the Burrata with Za’atar

Pat the burrata balls dry with clean paper towels.
Spread the za’atar seasoning on a plate.
Roll each ball of burrata in the za’atar until they’re completely coated, and set them aside.

Assemble and Serve

Arrange the tomatoes on a serving plate.
Place the seasoned burrata balls on top.
Serve with dippers, and enjoy! Tips for Success

Tips and Tricks

Use ripe tomatoes – For the finest taste and texture, use in-season tomatoes that are bright red and fairly firm, giving just slightly when squeezed.
Use fresh burrata – Burrata doesn’t have a long shelf life and tastes finest when super fresh.
Season generously – Taste and adjust the herbs and seasonings as you go to ensure your tomato and burrata salad has tons of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Tomato and Burrata Salad with pita chips or crusty bread for dipping takes the flavor experience to a whole new level. The crackly texture of pita chips or the rustic charm of crusty bread are both reliable for scooping up the vibrant, herbaceous goodness of this salad.

Or, if you want to serve this salad as a vibrant side dish or appetite-whetting starter, try pairing it with main courses such as tomato basil chicken with burrata, Italian wedding soup, caprese baked orzo pasta, or simple baked bruschetta chicken.

Common Questions About This Tomato and Burrata Salad

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

We use grape tomatoes, but you can also opt for peak-season heirloom, cherry, or vine-ripened tomatoes! Mixing colors and sizes can also add a visual pop and a variety of textures.

Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?

You can, but burrata brings that luscious, silky center that makes the salad feel special. If using mozzarella, try a high-quality fresh version.

Is this finest served cold or at room temperature?

Room temperature! That way, the burrata is soft and silky, the tomatoes are juicy, and the flavors really come through.

Can I add anything else to bulk it up?

Absolutely! Try adding grilled sourdough, avocado slices, thinly shaved red onion, or even chickpeas for a heartier twist.

More Tasty Salad Recipes

Tomato and burrata salad with za'atar seasoning.

the Ayyem kitchenServings: 4 servings

Prep: 10 mins
Total: 10 mins

Prepare this tomato and burrata salad with za’atar for a restaurant-worthy side dish or appetizer full of tantalizing savory flavors! Email

Ingredients

4 Tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove grated
3 Tablespoons fresh chopped mint
1/2 teaspoon sea salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
16 ounces burrata we use 3 balls totaling 16 ounces
16 ounces grape tomatoes split in half
3-4 Tablespoons za’atar seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the Tomato Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, grated garlic, chopped mint, sea salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix well until combined.4 Tablespoons olive oil, 1 garlic clove, 3 Tablespoons fresh chopped mint, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Add the halved grape tomatoes to the mixture and toss until all the tomatoes are evenly coated. Set aside.16 ounces grape tomatoes

Coat the Burrata with Za’atar:

Carefully pat dry the burrata balls with paper towels to remove excess moisture.16 ounces burrata
Spread the za’atar seasoning on a plate. Start with 3 tablespoons, and add more as needed.3-4 Tablespoons za’atar seasoning
Roll each ball of burrata in the za’atar until they’re completely coated. Set aside.