Grilled nectarine burrata salad with prosciutto served on a plate

1, Apr 2026

Sweet and Savory Grilled Nectarine Burrata and Prosciutto Salad

Hello, foodie friends! 🥗✨ Today, I’m thrilled to take you on a vibrant culinary journey with a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at: Sweet and Savory Grilled Nectarine Burrata and Prosciutto Salad. Imagine layers of creamy burrata, salty prosciutto, and the sweetness of perfectly grilled nectarines – every bite is a celebration of summer!

A Little Slice of Nostalgia

Before we dive into the recipes and tips, let me share a little personal story with you. I still remember the day my friend and I hosted our first little summer dinner party back in college. Armed with excitement and a questionable amount of cooking knowledge, we decided to whip up a salad that would wow our guests.

We went for grilled peaches, which was a hit! But braving that warm, sunny evening with sticky hands, laughing over the grill, and figuring out how to handle burrata for the first time remains ingrained in my memory. The best part? We topped it all off with crispy prosciutto, and I thought to myself – “Why haven’t I done this more often?”

From that day on, my love for smoky, sweet, and savory combinations blossomed into the kitchen you see today. So, let’s channel that summer nostalgia and create something special together!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this heavenly salad:

2 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted: Look for nectarines that yield slightly to touch – that’s how you know they’re sweet and ready! You can substitute with peaches or plums if you’d like a twist.
8 oz burrata cheese: This creamy cheese is worth every calorie! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella works beautifully, though it won’t have quite the same creamy center.
4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced: The saltiness of prosciutto complements the sweetness of nectarines perfectly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken breast can substitute, but make sure to add a dash of salt to mimic that savory kick!
4 cups arugula or mixed greens: These leafy greens add a bright, peppery contrast to the sweetness. Spinach or kale can also work if you’re aiming for a softer texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Always use good-quality olive oil; it enhances the flavors of your dish immensely. You could swap it out for avocado oil if you prefer.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: This classic vinegar adds an acidic punch. Try a fruity balsamic for an extra layer of flavor or swap it with apple cider vinegar for a different twist.
Salt and pepper to taste: Never forget to season! You can also experiment with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get our hands dirty and whip up this delicious salad! Follow these steps and enjoy the cooking process just as much as the final dish.

Preheat your grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, place it on the stovetop over medium heat. It’s essential to get that perfect char on your nectarines!
Prepare the nectarines: Halve and pit your ripe nectarines. If you’re feeling fancy, you can brush them with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt to enhance their natural sweetness. This step is optional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor.
Grill the nectarines: Place the halved nectarines cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until you see beautiful grill marks. Once perfectly caramelized, flip them over and grill for another minute. (Don’t leave them too long, or they can turn into mush!)
Create the salad base: In a large bowl, toss the arugula or mixed greens with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. (Pro tip: Use your hands to gently toss the greens for an even distribution of dressing!)
Build the salad: Layer the greens on a beautiful platter or individual plates, then tear the fresh burrata and add it on top of the greens. It doesn’t have to be perfect – the messier, the better!
Add prosciutto and nectarines: Drape the prosciutto slices artistically over the salad and add the grilled nectarines on top.
Finish it off: Give it a final drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper, and enjoy the presentation!
Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature. Pair it with some crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to plating, a beautiful salad deserves a beautiful presentation. I recommend serving this Nectarine Burrata Salad on a large, vibrant platter to showcase all those colors! For an extra touch:

Layer it: Create height and texture by stacking the ingredients instead of laying them flat. It gives your salad a bistro vibe.
Add edible flowers: If you have them on hand, edible flowers like nasturtiums or violets can elevate your presentation game.
Serve with a side of balsamic reduction: Drizzle a little balsamic reduction around the plate for a more gourmet look.

Recipe Variations

Here are some creative spins to keep your palate entertained:

Herbed Ricotta: Substitute burrata for herbed ricotta cheese for a lighter, refreshing option. Simply mix ricotta with fresh herbs like basil or dill for added flavor.
Nectarine Salsa: Dice the grilled nectarines and mix them with red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a tangy salsa to top your salad for a more vibrant burst of flavor.
Grainy Goodness: Add cooked quinoa or farro to the salad for an extra bit of heartiness. This also helps make it a complete meal!
Nuts About Crunch: Top with toasted sliced almonds or walnuts for that crucial crunchy component everyone loves.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different seasonal fruits by swapping nectarines for figs, cherries, or even juicy strawberries. Each fruit will bring its unique flavor profile that’s just as delightful!

Chef’s Notes

Creating this salad often brings back the joy of that summer dinner party with my friend. It’s amazing how food can transport us back to cherished moments! Over the years, I’ve played with this recipe, sometimes adding toasted pecans or swapping out the greens for a zesty coleslaw base.

And, a little kitchen tip from me: Don’t be afraid to let your salad sit for a few minutes before serving; the greens will absorb some of that rich dressing, making each bite even more flavorful!

Did I mention this dish is perfect for impressing friends or family? It looks stunning and takes minimal effort!

FAQs and Troubleshooting

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep elements in advance! Grill the nectarines and store them in the fridge. Toss the greens and dressing separately, and assemble right before serving.

Q: Why is my burrata not creamy?
A: If you bought a packed burrata, make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving. This enhances its creaminess!

Q: Can I grill the prosciutto?
A: Absolutely! Grilling prosciutto adds a delicious crunch. Just keep an eye on it; it cooks quickly!

Q: What do I do if my nectarines are hard?
A: If your nectarines aren’t quite ripe, you can quickly grill them whole for a lovely smokey taste. Just be mindful to grill them longer to let the sweetness develop.

Nutritional Info

While this recipe is all about flavor and fun, it’s also packed with nutrients! Each serving offers a good amount of protein from the burrata and prosciutto, along with healthy fats from the olive oil and a wealth of vitamins from the greens and nectarines. Perfect as a light meal or a show-stopping side dish!

So there you have it—a Sweet and Savory Grilled Nectarine Burrata and Prosciutto Salad that will brighten up any table. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with those beautiful summer flavors and textures as much as I do! Happy cooking, and remember, let’s keep it crunchy, colorful, and seriously delicious! 🥗✨