Tomato-Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Dressing

I’m just gonna say it this might be my favorite thing I’ve made all summer. I was puttering around the farmer’s market, saw these amazing peaches and heirloom tomatoes sitting next to each other, and had a serious lightbulb moment. What if they… became best friends in a salad? I grabbed some burrata, whipped up my go-to tangy dressing, and guys this combo is absolutely unreal. It’s fresh, a little sweet, crazy creamy, and honestly, way easier to make than it looks.

Try my Lemony Chickpea and Zucchini Salad recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seriously, this isn’t your average side dish. Here’s why it’s about to become your new summer staple:

→ The Perfect Sweet & Savory Combo: Juicy peaches + sweet tomatoes + tangy balsamic = a flavor explosion that just works. It’s unexpected in the best way possible.

→ Seriously, So Easy: If you can chop fruit and shake a jar, you’ve got this. No cooking required, which means zero heat in your kitchen on a hot day. Winner!

→ It’s a Total Showstopper: With all those gorgeous colors and textures, this salad looks like it came from a fancy restaurant. It’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family.

→ Creamy Burrata Goodness: Let’s be real, burrata makes everything better. Cutting into that creamy center and letting it mix with the dressing is the best part.

→ Ready in a Flash: From start to finish, you’re about 15 minutes away from salad heaven. It’s the perfect solution for when you need something delicious, fast.

→ Summer on a Plate: This recipe captures the absolute best of summer produce. It’s bright, fresh, and tastes like sunshine.

Try my Zesty Turkish Couscous Salad recipe.

What You’ll Need To Make

This salad is so amazing because of a few rockstar ingredients. Here’s the inside scoop on what makes them so special:

→ Heirloom Tomatoes: Forget those bland, pale grocery store tomatoes! Heirlooms are the OG tomatoes ugly-beautiful, bursting with real, tangy-sweet flavor, and they come in wild colors. They’re the juicy, sturdy base of our whole salad.

→ Ripe Peaches: We’re using peaches here for a genius sweet twist. When they’re perfectly ripe and juicy, they play so nicely with the tomatoes and that tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a sweet-and-savory match made in heaven! 🍑

→ Burrata Cheese: If mozzarella had a richer, cooler, creamier cousin, it would be burrata. That delicate outer shell gives way to an incredible, soft, creamy center that basically becomes part of the dressing. It’s pure luxury without any fuss.

→ The Homemade Dressing: Don’t even think about the bottled stuff! Our simple shake-and-go dressing with olive oil, balsamic, a hint of honey, and Dijon mustard is what ties this whole party together. It’s tangy, a little sweet, and has just the right amount of zing.

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What You’ll Need To Do

Time required: 15 mins

Alright, friends, let’s assemble this masterpiece! It’s so easy, you’ll be done in a flash.

Step 1: The Fancy Shake (a.k.a. The Dressing)

Grab a glass jar with a lid a mason jar works perfectly. Throw in all your dressing ingredients: the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, and garlic. Now, screw that lid on TIGHT and give it your best shake-shake-shake until everything is happily combined and emulsified. Set your delicious dressing aside for its big moment.

Step 2: Create Your Canvas

Take a large platter or your prettiest plate this salad is a looker, so it deserves it! Artfully arrange your gorgeous sliced heirloom tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, and sweet peach slices. Don’t stress about it being perfect; a little rustic charm is what we’re going for!

Now, for the star of the show: that gorgeous ball of burrata. Gently break it apart with your hands and tuck the creamy, dreamy pieces all over the tomatoes and peaches. It’s okay if it’s a little messy! Give the whole thing a generous sprinkle of salt and a few cracks of black pepper.

Step 3: The Grand Finale

Right before you’re ready to serve (so everything stays fresh and gorgeous), drizzle that amazing dressing you made over the top. Finish it off with a scattering of fresh basil leaves for that perfect pop of color and flavor.

Dig in and enjoy the taste of summer!

Glycemic Index (GI) & Glycemic Load (GL) per Serving

• Estimated Glycemic Index (GI): Low (~35-40)
• Estimated Glycemic Load (GL): Low (~4-5)

Why: The fresh peaches and tomatoes have a low GI, and the fat and protein from the olive oil and burrata help slow digestion, further reducing the overall glycemic impact.

Approximate Macro Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	~ 220 – 250 kcal
Total Fat	~ 18 – 20 g	Primarily from the olive oil and burrata (healthy fats).
Saturated Fat	~ 6 – 8 g	Mostly from the burrata cheese.
Carbohydrates	~ 12 – 15 g	Mostly from the natural sugars in the fruit.
Fiber	~ 2 – 3 g	From the tomatoes, peaches, and shallot.
Sugars	~ 9 – 11 g	Natural sugars only.
Protein	~ 6 – 8 g	From the burrata cheese.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates based on standard USDA data for the ingredients used. Actual values can vary significantly based on the exact size and specific brands of ingredients.

Is This Recipe Diabetes-Friendly?

Yes, this recipe is generally considered diabetes-friendly, and it can be an excellent choice for a meal when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Here’s why:

1. Low Glycemic Load (GL): This is the most important factor. With a GL of only ~4-5 per serving, this salad will cause only a very small, gradual rise in blood sugar levels.
2. Healthy Fats & Protein: The significant amount of fat from the olive oil (monounsaturated fat) and protein from the burrata cheese helps slow down the absorption of the sugars from the peaches and tomatoes into the bloodstream. This prevents a sharp spike.
3. Fiber Content: The tomatoes, peaches, and shallot provide fiber, which also helps to slow digestion and sugar absorption.
4. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which are all beneficial for overall health and metabolic function.

Key Consideration: Portion control is still crucial. While one serving is fine, consuming a very large portion could increase the total carbohydrate intake more than desired.

How to Make It Even More Diabetes-Friendly (Optional Alterations):

If you want to be extra cautious or are managing your blood sugar very strictly, here are simple tweaks:

1. Reduce the Honey: The honey is the most concentrated source of sugar. You can easily halve it (use ½ tsp) or omit it entirely. The mustard and shallot provide plenty of flavor.
2. Adjust the Peach Ratio: Use one peach instead of two, and add a bit more tomato or even some low-carb vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers to bulk it up.
3. Add More Protein & Fiber: To make the meal even more balanced and blood-sugar-stable, serve it on a bed of leafy greens (like spinach or arugula) or add a handful of chickpeas or grilled chicken breast on top.
4. Portion the Burrata: While healthy, burrata is calorie-dense. Ensure you’re sticking to the serving size (roughly a 1.3 oz portion per person).

Conclusion: The recipe as written is a great diabetic-friendly option due to its low glycemic load and the balancing effect of fat and protein. The alterations above are just for those who need or want to fine-tune it further for their individual needs.

Always remember: Individual responses to food can vary. It’s always best to monitor your blood sugar levels to see how specific foods affect you personally.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Don’t have an ingredient or want to mix it up? No problem! This salad is super flexible. Here are some easy swaps:

1| No Heirlooms? Use any big, juicy tomatoes you can find! Beefsteak or even a bunch of colorful vine-ripened tomatoes will work perfectly.

2| Not a Peach Person? Try nectarines for a similar vibe. For a different kind of sweet, fresh figs or cantaloupe would be amazing here.

3| Burrata Too Fancy? A fresh ball of mozzarella (the soft kind in water) is the closest swap and still deliciously creamy.

4| Allergic to Nuts? (Wait, burrata is dairy!) For a Dairy-Free Option: Try a ball of high-quality vegan mozzarella or creamy avocado slices for that rich, fatty element.

5| Out of Shallot? Use about 2 tablespoons of very finely chopped red onion instead. Soak it in cold water for 5 minutes first to take a little bite out if you’re sensitive.

6| Want to Add a Crunch? Sprinkle on some toasted pine nuts, chopped pecans, or homemade garlicky croutons right before serving.

7| Make it a Main Dish! Turn this side salad into dinner by tossing in grilled chicken slices, chickpeas, or a piece of grilled salmon on top.

Try my Chicken Kale Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing recipe.

Twist and Tweak Ideas

Love the base recipe and want to play around? Here are some delicious ideas to mix it up:

1| Get Herby: While basil is a classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Fresh mint or chopped chives would add a fantastic, bright new flavor layer.

2| Spice It Up: Add a little kick by sprinkling on some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili crisp over the top before serving. Sweet, creamy, and spicy is a winning combo!

3| Up the Umami: For a serious depth of flavor, add a few slices of prosciutto or crispy pancetta on top. The salty, savory element takes this salad to a whole new level.

4| Extra Texture Town: Add a big handful of toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or candied pecans for a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy burrata.

5| Grill It! Take advantage of that grill! Lightly grill the peach slices and tomato halves for a minute or two. It caramelizes the sugars and adds an incredible smoky sweetness.

6| Citrus Twist: Add a few segments of fresh orange or grapefruit for a juicy, citrusy burst that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

7| Creamy Dressing Option: For an even richer dressing, try whisking a tablespoon of white miso paste into the mix. It adds an amazing savory, salty complexity.

The best part? This recipe is a perfect canvas, so don’t be shy get creative and find your favorite combination

Try my Maple Tahini Dressing recipe.

My Pro Tips For The Best Salad Ever!

A few little tricks make a HUGE difference in this recipe. Here’s how to make it absolutely perfect:

1| Choose Ripe Fruit: This is non-negotiable for the best flavor! Your peaches and tomatoes should be fragrant and yield just a bit to gentle pressure. They’re the stars of the show!

2| Temperature is Key: Serve the burrata cold and the tomatoes/peaches at room temperature. This creates the most refreshing contrast and allows the flavors to really shine. Take everything out of the fridge about 30 minutes before assembling.

3| Don’t Dress Too Early: Only drizzle the dressing right before you serve. This keeps your beautiful ingredients from getting soggy and wilting.

4| The Jar Trick: Making the dressing in a jar isn’t just cute it’s practical! You can give it another good shake right before pouring, and any leftovers store perfectly in the same jar.

5| Season Generously: Don’t be shy with that salt and pepper! Seasoning the tomatoes and peaches directly helps to draw out their natural juices and makes the flavors pop.

6| Hands Off the Burrata: For the prettiest presentation, tear the burrata ball with your hands instead of cutting it with a knife. You’ll get those beautiful, rustic, creamy edges.

7| Taste Your Balsamic: Since balsamic vinegar can vary in sweetness and tang, give your dressing a quick taste and adjust. Need a touch more sweetness? Add another tiny drizzle of honey.

Try my Spicy Cucumber Salad recipe.

Budget-Friendly Tips

This dish tastes like luxury, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s how to make it a bit more wallet-friendly:

1| Tomato Swap: Heirloom tomatoes are gorgeous but can be pricey. You’ll get fantastic flavor for less by using ripe, in-season beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes instead.

2| Peach Timing is Everything: Buy peaches at the peak of their season (summer!) when they’re most abundant and affordable. If they’re crazy expensive, nectarines are usually a great comparable substitute.

3| The Burrata Swap: The creamy burrata is the star, but a fresh mozzarella ball (the kind stored in water) is a much more affordable alternative that still gives you that fantastic creamy texture.

4| DIY Dressing: You’re already doing this! Making your own dressing is always cheaper than buying a pre-made bottled version. You probably have most of the ingredients like oil, vinegar, and mustard in your pantry already.

5| Grow Your Own Herbs: If you have a sunny windowsill, a small basil plant is cheap to buy and will provide you with endless fresh garnishes for weeks, saving you from buying expensive clamshells at the store.

6| Swap the Shallot: A small amount of red or yellow onion is a perfect stand-in for the shallot. Just chop it super fine! Soaking the chopped onion in cold water for 5-10 minutes can also take away a bit of the sharp bite.

7| Buy in Bulk: If you’re making this for a party, check the price per ounce. Sometimes a larger container of cherry tomatoes or a bigger log of mozzarella is a better value than small packages.

Try my Salmon Caesar Salad recipe.

Serving Ideas

This salad is crazy versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

1| The Perfect Sidekick: It’s a natural best friend to anything coming off the grill. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or lemony grilled shrimp for a fresh, cool contrast.

2| Summer Appetizer Star: Place the whole platter in the middle of the table with a stack of small plates and let everyone dig in family-style. It’s the most impressive (and easiest) starter for a summer dinner party.

3| The Main Event (Almost): Turn it into a light main course by serving it on a big bed of arugula or spinach. For a heartier meal, add a grilled chicken breast on top or a handful of grilled shrimp.

4| Brunch Hero: Yes, for brunch! It pairs amazingly with crusty bread, quiche, or frittata. The bright, fresh flavors are a wonderful wake-up call for your taste buds.

5| Picnic Perfect: Pack the undressed salad and the dressing in a separate jar. When you get to your spot, just drizzle and serve! It travels like a dream.

6| Bread is a Must: Have some thick, toasted slices of crusty bread or grilled baguette on the side. It’s perfect for scooping up every last bit of that creamy burrata, juicy tomato, and delicious dressing.

Try my Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Dressing recipe.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Let’s be real, this salad is best eaten right away. But if you have leftovers, here’s exactly how to handle them:

Storage Tips:

• The Big Rule: Store the components separately if you can! Keep any undressed salad and the dressing in different airtight containers in the fridge. This is the #1 trick to avoiding a soggy mess.
• If Already Dressed: The salad will get very watery and the peaches will soften significantly. It’s still edible, but the texture won’t be as perfect. Enjoy it within a few hours.
• How Long It Lasts:
  • Undressed Salad (without dressing): Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
  • Leftover Dressing: It will keep happily in its jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just give it a good shake before using it again.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheating? Don’t do it! ❌ This is a completely no-cook, cold salad. Please do not try to microwave or warm it up.
• How to Enjoy Leftovers: Enjoy them straight from the fridge as a quick snack. For the best experience, let the container sit out on the counter for about 10-15 minutes to take the extreme chill off before digging in.

Try my Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing recipe.

Final Thoughts

And that’s it! My not-so-secret weapon for impressing people with very little effort. I hope this recipe becomes a regular in your summer rotation like it is in mine. Give it a shot, and let me know what you think! Tag me in your pics or drop a comment below I always love seeing your creations. Now go enjoy that sunshine on a plate

Recipe Card