When the weather warms up and the sun shines bright, it’s time to embrace summer flavors and fresh ingredients. An ideal companion to any grilled meat or pasta dish is a vibrant salad.
If you’re looking for something fresh that is easy to prepare, let me introduce you to Carrabba’s Caprese Salad. This salad combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and fragrant basil—a combination that feels like a warm hug from an old friend.
What Can You Pair with This Dish?
While a Caprese salad shines all on its own, it can truly elevate a meal. Here are some ideas to pair with this dish:
- Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper complements the freshness of the salad.
- Pasta: Pair it with a light pasta dish, such as a lemon-garlic spaghetti, for a delightful Italian feast.
- Crusty Bread: Sliced sourdough or ciabatta is perfect for mopping up the delicious juices left on your plate.
- Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chianti balances beautifully with the flavors.
Salads can often feel like an afterthought, something thrown together before the main dish takes center stage. But I assure you, Carrabba’s Caprese Salad is anything but ordinary.
Tasting this salad evokes memories of summers spent in Italy. The sweet, ripe tomatoes, lush basil, and rich burrata cheese create a dish that feels both special and comfortable.
What is Carrabba’s Caprese Salad?
At its core, Carrabba’s Caprese Salad is a feast for the senses. This dish consists of large heirloom tomatoes sliced into thick rounds, fresh burrata cheese that oozes creaminess, and bright basil leaves.
Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar, it’s a salad that embodies the essence of Italian dining.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of high-quality ingredients come together in a way that showcases each element without overpowering the others. It’s the perfect blend of creaminess, acidity, and freshness.
The balance achieves is supported by the following reasons:
- Quality Ingredients: Using the freshest tomatoes and the best olive oil elevates the dish.
- Taste Contrast: The sweetness of heirloom tomatoes counteracts the creaminess of the burrata.
- Seasonal Appeal: This salad bursts with flavor during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To recreate Carrabba’s Caprese Salad at home, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes: Choose ones that feel heavy and have a vibrant color.
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes: The smaller versions add a splash of color and sweetness.
- 1 fresh ball of burrata cheese: Look for a plump ball; it should feel delicate.
- A handful of fresh basil leaves: The key ingredient bringing fragrance and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar or thick balsamic glaze: Adds tang and depth.
- 1 tablespoon cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil: Quality matters here for the best taste.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
Optional Additions:
- 1 tablespoon roasted sunflower seeds: For some texture contrast.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Add a hint of sweetness if desired.
How to Make Carrabba’s Caprese Salad?
Making this salad is straightforward and quick. The key is to prepare each ingredient without overcomplicating the process. Here’s a brief overview of the steps we will dive into later.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Carrabba’s Caprese Salad
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Begin by rounding up all your ingredients. This ensures everything is within reach as you prepare your salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Slice the heirloom tomatoes into thick rounds. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. The size of the heirlooms adds body and texture to the salad.
Step 3: Plate the Tomatoes
On a large serving platter, arrange the sliced heirloom and halved cherry tomatoes. Allow space for the burrata in the center.
Step 4: Add the Burrata
Gently place the ball of burrata cheese right in the middle of the tomatoes. Don’t rush—this is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Season
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and burrata. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish with Basil
Tear the basil leaves and scatter them generously over the top. They add a vibrant green that makes the salad pop.
Step 7: Optional Additions
If desired, sprinkle the sunflower seeds for added crunch or drizzle a little honey for sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The olive oil’s flavor significantly impacts the dish.
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Let them rest at room temperature to enhance their flavor.
- Burrata is Best Served Fresh: Look for burrata made that day for the best taste.
- Experiment with Balances: Adjust the vinegar and seasoning until it fits your preference.
- Let It Sit: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within 1-2 days for the best quality.
The tomatoes may lose some texture but will still taste delicious.
How Would I Recommend Serving Carrabba’s Caprese Salad?
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider these serving suggestions:
- As an Appetizer: Start the meal with this salad served with crusty bread.
- With Grilled Meat: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a well-rounded meal.
- On a Buffet Table: This salad looks stunning on a buffet, bursting with color.
- As a Standalone Light Meal: Enjoy it alone with a glass of white wine.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
Not every grocery will have all the ingredients at all times. Here are some alternatives:
- Tomatoes: Use vine-ripened tomatoes if heirloom is unavailable.
- Burrata Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute. It won’t have the creamy center, but it will work fine.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A red wine vinegar can offer a similar tang.
- Fresh Basil: If you can’t find fresh basil, consider using a sprinkle of dried basil. Just go light on it!
Carrabba’s Caprese Salad Recipe
Equipment
- large serving platter
Ingredients
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 1 fresh ball of burrata cheese
- A handful of fresh fragrant basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar or thick balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt to season
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon roasted sunflower seeds for added texture
- 1 teaspoon honey for a hint of sweetness
Instructions
- Begin by rounding up all your ingredients. This ensures everything is within reach as you prepare your salad.
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes into thick rounds. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. The size of the heirlooms adds body and texture to the salad.
- On a large serving platter, arrange the sliced heirloom and halved cherry tomatoes. Allow space for the burrata in the center.
- Gently place the ball of burrata cheese right in the middle of the tomatoes. Don’t rush—this is where the magic happens.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and burrata. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Tear the basil leaves and scatter them generously over the top. They add a vibrant green that makes the salad pop.
- If desired, sprinkle the sunflower seeds for added crunch or drizzle a little honey for sweetness.
Video
Notes
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The olive oil’s flavor significantly impacts the dish.
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Let them rest at room temperature to enhance their flavor.
- Burrata is Best Served Fresh: Look for burrata made that day for the best taste.
- Experiment with Balances: Adjust the vinegar and seasoning until it fits your preference.
- Let It Sit: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The magic of Carrabba’s Caprese Salad comes from quality ingredients and simple preparation. This dish is not just another side salad; it’s a balance of flavors that can sparkle on any table. You have the flexibility to experiment with the ingredients and the preparation.
Feel free to adjust it to your taste or dietary needs. This vibrant salad effortlessly embodies summer, making it perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing solo treat. So next time you fire up the grill or want to brighten your dinner table, this Caprese salad will be waiting in the wings, ready to steal the show. Enjoy every bite!
