Personalized Introduction

There are some dishes that feel like sunshine in a bowl, and this Roasted Tomato & Burrata Panzanella Salad 🍅🧀 is definitely one of them. I still remember the first time I made it—I had leftover baguette, a bunch of cherry tomatoes that needed love, and a ball of burrata calling my name from the fridge. I took one bite, and I swear, it felt like a warm summer afternoon in Italy.

This salad is comforting yet refreshing, rustic yet elegant. The roasted tomatoes burst with flavor, the toasted bread cubes soak up all the juices, and the creamy burrata ties everything together like a dream. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a chef even though it’s incredibly easy to put together.

Whether you’re making it for lunch, as a side dish, or for a cozy dinner, this salad will make you smile. It’s colorful, vibrant, and honestly one of the best ways to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Let’s bring this bright, flavorful beauty to your table!

Nutritional Benefits

This salad may feel indulgent, but it’s surprisingly nutritious. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which help support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Burrata provides protein and calcium, giving the dish a creamy richness while still offering valuable nutrients.

The olive oil dressing adds healthy fats that support heart and brain health, while the bread (especially if you use whole-grain or sourdough) gives you fiber and long-lasting energy. Fresh basil brings antioxidants and a burst of natural flavor. This is one of those dishes that manages to be both delicious and nourishing at the same time.

Adaptable Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Reduce the bread and add more tomatoes, cucumbers, or arugula.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crispy prosciutto.
• Different Cheese: Swap burrata for fresh mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese.
• Extra Veggies: Add roasted peppers, cucumbers, red onions, or avocado.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top.
• Herb Upgrade: Add oregano, thyme, or parsley for deeper flavor.

Roasted Tomato & Burrata Panzanella Salad 🍅🧀

Ingredients

• 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 medium baguette or rustic loaf, cut into cubes
• 1 large ball of burrata cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Roast the tomatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cherry tomatoes on a baking tray. Drizzle with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the minced garlic. Roast for about 18–22 minutes until bubbly and slightly caramelized.
2. Toast the bread. Spread the bread cubes on a separate tray. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. You want them crisp on the outside but still slightly soft in the center.
3. Make the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad. In a large bowl, add the toasted bread, roasted tomatoes (with their juices), and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.
5. Add the burrata. Place the burrata in the center or tear it into pieces so every bite gets some creamy goodness.
6. Serve. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, add more basil if you like, and enjoy immediately while the bread is still toasty.

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Use day-old bread. Slightly stale bread toasts better and holds up to the dressing.
• Don’t over-dress. The tomatoes release juice—start with less dressing and add more as needed.
• Add burrata last. This keeps it creamy and prevents it from melting into the warm ingredients.
• Let it rest 5 minutes. Allowing the bread to soften slightly makes the salad even better.
• Serve immediately. Panzanella is best enjoyed fresh so the bread stays crisp and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep ingredients separately, but don’t mix everything until right before serving.
2. Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata? Yes! Fresh mozzarella works beautifully.
3. Can I use regular tomatoes? Absolutely—just chop them into chunks and roast them the same way.
4. Does the bread get soggy? Slightly, but in the best way. Toasting prevents it from becoming mushy.

Call to Action

If you make this Roasted Tomato & Burrata Panzanella Salad, I’d love to hear how you liked it! Share your photos, leave a comment, or save this recipe on Pinterest so you can make it again anytime. Your support truly means the world to me and helps me create more delicious recipes for you!