Quick Takeaways
- A summer salad combining watermelon, prosciutto, and burrata, finished with a homemade strawberry-balsamic glaze.
- Paired with Stags' Leap Winery's Amparo Rosé, a dry Grenache-based rosé named for Amparo Grange, a real historical figure who lived at the Stags' Leap estate from 1941 to 1955.
- Total active time is under 20 minutes, making this an easy warm-weather starter or light main.
This watermelon, prosciutto, and burrata salad with strawberry-balsamic glaze balances sweet, savory, and creamy in every bite. Juicy watermelon and creamy burrata pair with delicate prosciutto, while fresh basil and arugula add herbal brightness and the homemade strawberry-balsamic glaze finishes it with a sweet-tart edge. Serve with toasted sourdough on the side for crunch.
The Recipe
Serves: 4 | Cook time: 15 minutes, plus cooling time for the glaze
Ingredients
For the salad
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed or cut into wedges
- 8 thin slices prosciutto
- 1 ball burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup fresh arugula (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the strawberry-balsamic glaze
- ½ cup strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and strain to remove seeds. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange the watermelon on a serving platter. Drape the prosciutto over the watermelon and scatter the torn burrata on top. Add the basil and arugula, if using, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Finish with the glaze: Drizzle the strawberry-balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
The Pairing: Amparo Rosé
Stags' Leap Amparo Rosé is named for Amparo Grange, who lived at the Stags' Leap estate from 1941 to 1955 and brought her own style of elegance and gracious hospitality to the property during that era. This dry, Grenache-based rosé, sourced primarily from the rocky, mid-valley Gamble Ranch Vineyard in Oakville, carries a watermelon-pink hue and aromas of cherry, strawberry, and white nectarine.
That profile makes it a natural match for this salad. The wine's crisp acidity and fruit notes echo the watermelon's own sweetness and stand up to the richness of the burrata, while its delicate floral character balances the saltiness of the prosciutto.
More Recipes to Explore
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Grilled Shrimp and Mango Skewers. A springtime favorite: grilled shrimp and mango skewers paired with Stags' Leap Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, whose bright, citrusy character matches the dish's fresh, tropical flavors. Explore the Recipe
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb. Herb-crusted rack of lamb with a blackberry-balsamic glaze, paired with the rich, velvety 2022 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Explore the Recipe
Recipe and Pairing at a Glance
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dish | Watermelon, prosciutto, and burrata salad with strawberry-balsamic glaze |
| Wine pairing | Amparo Rosé |
| Serves | 4 |
| Total time | About 20 minutes |
| Why it works | Crisp acidity and fruit notes echo the watermelon; floral character balances the prosciutto |
Frequently Asked Questions
What wine pairs well with watermelon and burrata salad? A crisp, fruit-forward rosé works well, since its acidity balances the burrata's richness while its fruit notes echo the watermelon's sweetness.
Who is Amparo Grange, and why is the rosé named after her? Amparo Grange lived at the Stags' Leap estate from 1941 to 1955, during a period when the property operated as an upscale destination resort. The wine is named in her honor and named for her reputation for elegant, gracious hospitality.
Can I make the strawberry-balsamic glaze ahead of time? Yes. The glaze can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature before drizzling.
What can I substitute for burrata in this salad? Fresh mozzarella works as a substitute, though it will be slightly less creamy than burrata.
Where can I buy Stags' Leap Winery's Amparo Rosé? It's available directly through stagsleap.com.
