Fresh Grilled Watermelon and Burrata Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction
A refreshing summer salad featuring smoky grilled watermelon, creamy burrata cheese, and a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. Perfect for light meals and entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- Fresh seedless watermelon, cut into thick slices or wedges
- 1–2 balls fresh burrata cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Fresh basil leaves
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed toasted pistachios or pine nuts
- Optional: fresh lime juice
- Optional: chili flakes
Instructions
- Cut a fresh, seedless watermelon into 1-inch thick slices, then cut those slices into large triangles or rectangles. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Lightly brush both sides of the watermelon slices with extra virgin olive oil.
- Grill the watermelon slices for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly but is not burnt.
- While grilling, pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened into a syrupy consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
- Arrange the grilled watermelon slices on a serving platter. Tear or slice fresh burrata and place it generously over the watermelon.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves over the salad. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally add crushed toasted pistachios or chili flakes.
- Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving.
Notes
Pat watermelon dry before grilling to ensure caramelization. Use medium-high heat and avoid flipping too often to get nice grill marks. Watch balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Burrata can be substituted with fresh mozzarella for less creaminess. For vegan version, use plant-based cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Protein: 5
Keywords: grilled watermelon salad, burrata salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, easy salad recipe, grilled fruit, fresh basil salad