Pin It The Heirloom Tomato Salad Board is a vibrant and fresh dish featuring an array of assorted heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and fragrant basil oil. Beautifully arranged on a large platter, this Mediterranean centerpiece is perfect for sharing and highlights the best of seasonal produce.
Pin It This easy-to-assemble salad board captures the essence of Mediterranean dining. By layering different textures and colors, you create a dish that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Ingredients
- 800 g (about 1.75 lbs) assorted heirloom tomatoes (various colors and sizes), sliced or halved
- 2 balls (250 g total) fresh burrata cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove
- Pinch of salt
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crusty bread or crostini, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the basil oil
- In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and bright green. Strain through a fine sieve for a smooth finish, if desired. Set aside.
- Step 2: Arrange the salad board
- On a large serving board or platter, artfully arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes in overlapping layers or clusters to showcase their colors and shapes.
- Step 3: Add the burrata
- Tear the burrata into large pieces and nestle them among the tomatoes.
- Step 4: Drizzle and season
- Drizzle the basil oil generously over the tomatoes and burrata. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 5: Add garnishes
- Scatter toasted pine nuts and extra basil leaves on top, if using.
- Step 6: Serve
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or crostini on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best presentation, use a sharp knife for clean tomato slices and a high-speed blender for the most vibrant basil oil. Straining the oil through a fine sieve into a small bowl will provide a restaurant-quality, silky finish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can swap the burrata for fresh mozzarella or a vegan cheese alternative if preferred. For extra flavor, consider adding thinly sliced red onions, avocado, or olives. For smaller gatherings, simply halve the ingredients and arrange them on a smaller platter.
Serviervorschläge
This salad board pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé. Always serve with plenty of crusty bread or toasted crostini to soak up the delicious basil oil and creamy cheese.
Pin It Whether served as a light lunch or a stunning appetizer for a summer party, this Heirloom Tomato Salad Board is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of Mediterranean cooking at its simplest and most elegant.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare the basil oil in advance?
Yes, you can make the basil oil up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before drizzling to enhance the flavors.
- → What type of heirloom tomatoes work best?
Cherry, beefsteak, and striped varieties create the most visually appealing board. Choose tomatoes at peak ripeness for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- → How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming watery?
Slice or halve the tomatoes just before assembly and avoid salting them too early. If they release liquid, gently pat them dry with paper towels before arranging.
- → What are good substitutes for burrata?
Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or vegan cheese alternatives work well. You can also use whipped goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this board?
Absolutely. Thinly sliced red onions, avocado, cucumber, or marinated olives complement the tomatoes beautifully. Add them just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé are ideal pairings. Both complement the fresh tomatoes and basil without overpowering the delicate flavors.