This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is a fresh, summery dish that brings together juicy grilled nectarines, creamy burrata cheese, salty prosciutto, and a vibrant lemon herb vinaigrette. Ideal for any time of day—from breakfast to a light dinner—this salad is a versatile showstopper. For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the prosciutto.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 nectarines, pitted and quartered

• 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn

• 8 slices prosciutto

• 4 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 heirloom tomatoes, halved and cut into eighths

• ½ cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

• ½ cup mixed baby spring greens

• Finishing salt, fresh ground black pepper

• Grilled baguette, for serving

For the Vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, roughly minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, roughly minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon thyme leaves

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• Pinch of salt, fresh ground black pepper as desired

Directions

1. Grill Nectarines: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush nectarine slices with olive oil. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until grill marks form and the fruit softens slightly. Remove and let cool.

2. Make Vinaigrette: Whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, zest, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.

3. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, toss greens, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, and cherries with the vinaigrette.

4. Top and Serve: Add grilled nectarines, torn burrata, and prosciutto on top. Sprinkle with remaining herbs, black pepper, and finishing salt. Serve with grilled baguette slices if desired.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving – assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: ~380 kcal

• Protein: ~14g

• Fat: ~28g

  • Saturated Fat: ~9g

• Carbohydrates: ~16g

  • Fiber: ~3g

  • Sugars: ~10g

• Cholesterol: ~40mg

• Sodium: ~420mg

• Vitamin C: ~20mg

• Calcium: ~150mg

A Salad That Balances Sophistication and Simplicity

At its core, this dish is a testament to how a few high-quality ingredients can transform into something restaurant-worthy. The grilled nectarines add a slightly smoky caramelization that contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy burrata. Prosciutto lends a luxurious, salty chew that heightens the flavors of the fruit and cheese, while tomatoes and fresh cherries add depth, acidity, and a pop of natural sweetness. It’s the kind of salad that feels sophisticated yet completely approachable—something you’d find at a trendy café, yet simple enough to prepare at home.

The Elegance of Grilled Fruit in Salads

Grilling fruit is a culinary technique that brings out a whole new level of flavor. With nectarines, the natural sugars caramelize over the grill, creating a slightly smoky, sweet-savory profile that pairs wonderfully with salty or creamy ingredients. This grilled element gives the salad a warmth—both literal and figurative—that sets it apart from typical raw-ingredient dishes. It’s a method that not only enhances the fruit’s taste but also gives the salad visual flair with grill marks and golden edges.

Burrata: The Creamy Counterpart That Steals the Show

Burrata cheese is a star ingredient that elevates this salad from simple to indulgent. Made from mozzarella and cream, burrata has a soft, buttery interior that oozes richness with every bite. When torn over the salad, its creamy texture seeps into the grilled fruit and vinaigrette-coated greens, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist. Burrata is best served fresh and at room temperature, allowing its delicate flavors to shine without competing with other bold components.

Prosciutto: A Salty, Savory Accent

Thinly sliced prosciutto brings a bold, savory note to the salad that complements the sweetness of the nectarines and the richness of the burrata. Its delicate texture and deep umami taste make it the perfect addition for those who enjoy a meat element in their salads. The slight chew and saltiness of the prosciutto provide an essential contrast that rounds out the dish. However, the salad doesn’t rely solely on prosciutto—it’s just as successful without it, offering an easy vegetarian alternative for guests or personal preference.

A Lemon Herb Vinaigrette That Ties It All Together

No salad is complete without a dressing that elevates rather than overwhelms, and this lemon herb vinaigrette does just that. Made with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, white wine vinegar, and a blend of herbs like oregano, mint, and thyme, the vinaigrette delivers a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness of the burrata and prosciutto. The lemon zest and herbs create an aromatic complexity that lingers with each bite, enhancing every ingredient without stealing the spotlight. The vinaigrette acts as the perfect bridge, bringing cohesion to a salad full of bold personalities.

Seasonal and Fresh: A Showcase of Summer Produce

What makes this salad so successful is its use of in-season produce at its peak. Ripe nectarines, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, and sweet cherries come together to form a celebration of summer’s bounty. Each bite offers juicy bursts of flavor and a spectrum of textures—from soft and creamy to crisp and chewy. The freshness of these ingredients is key; nothing in this dish is heavily processed or cooked beyond the light grilling of the fruit. It’s fresh food done right—minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

Despite feeling indulgent, this salad is quite balanced nutritionally. With around 380 calories per serving, it provides 14 grams of protein thanks to the prosciutto and burrata. The inclusion of a wide array of fruits and vegetables supplies antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—especially vitamin C from tomatoes and cherries, and calcium from the cheese. The healthy fats from olive oil support heart health, while the fiber from greens and fruits promotes digestion. It’s a well-rounded dish that satisfies cravings while nourishing the body.

Versatility in Serving and Meal Planning

This salad is as versatile in its role as it is in its flavor. Serve it as a standalone light lunch, a side for grilled meats or seafood, or a first course for a dinner party. It also makes a beautiful brunch centerpiece when paired with crusty grilled baguette slices or a chilled rosé. Its presentation is naturally photogenic, making it a favorite for entertaining. The recipe can be doubled or halved easily, and most of the prep can be done ahead—just grill the nectarines and assemble everything before serving.

Easy Modifications for Dietary Preferences

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto. The salad remains hearty and satisfying, thanks to the creaminess of burrata and the abundance of fruits and greens. For a vegan twist, replace the burrata with a plant-based creamy cheese or avocado slices and swap the honey in the vinaigrette (if using) with maple syrup. Gluten-free diners can enjoy the salad as is or pair it with gluten-free bread for dipping into the vinaigrette. It’s an easily adaptable dish that fits seamlessly into various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with a range of accompaniments. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé complements the fruit and herb flavors perfectly. If serving as part of a larger meal, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even seared scallops can be offered on the side. For a vegetarian meal, add toasted walnuts or pistachios for crunch and additional protein. The grilled baguette makes a great vessel for scooping up burrata, tomatoes, and nectarines, creating irresistible bite-sized moments.

Conclusion

Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is more than just a salad—it’s an experience of textures, temperatures, and taste that captures the joy of eating seasonally and simply. It brings together the best of summer on one plate: smoky grilled fruit, creamy cheese, salty meat, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty herb vinaigrette that ties it all together. With its elegant presentation and gourmet flavor, this salad proves that fresh ingredients, treated with care, can create culinary magic. Whether you serve it at a garden party or a quiet lunch for two, this dish will leave a lasting impression. It’s light yet satisfying, simple yet sophisticated, and endlessly customizable—earning its place as a warm-weather favorite you’ll crave all season long.