Delicious Roasted Rhubarb Salad with Fennel and Burrata: A Savory Twist on Salad

Introduction to Roasted Rhubarb Salad

Salads are often associated with fresh greens and light dressings, but this roasted rhubarb salad takes a unique turn with a savory twist. The sweetness of roasted rhubarb pairs beautifully with the aromatic crunch of fennel, and the creamy burrata adds an indulgent element to the dish. Whether you’re looking for a savory salad for a dinner party or an elegant dish for a holiday celebration, this salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Roasting rhubarb transforms its tartness into a warm, mellow sweetness that complements the fennel and radishes perfectly. With a few simple ingredients, including burrata and radish, this salad becomes a showstopper that can be served as a starter, side dish, or even a light main course.

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Ingredients for Roasted Rhubarb Salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful roasted rhubarb fennel salad:

• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning)
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (adds a mild, licorice-like flavor)
• 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced (for a peppery crunch)
• 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness to balance the rhubarb)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for a fresh herbaceous note)
• 2 tablespoons rhubarb syrup or balsamic vinegar (to add a tangy depth of flavor)
• 1 ball burrata cheese (for a rich, creamy element)
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for extra texture)

This savory salad brings together the sweet and savory components, making it a truly unique dish. You can also adjust the quantities based on the number of servings needed.

How to Make Roasted Rhubarb Salad

Making this roasted rhubarb salad is straightforward and takes minimal preparation. Here’s how you can put everything together:

Step 1: Roast the Rhubarb

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chopped rhubarb pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and slightly caramelized.

Once roasted, drizzle the rhubarb with honey to add a touch of sweetness and to help balance out the tartness.

Step 2: Prepare the Fennel and Radishes

While the rhubarb is roasting, slice the fennel bulb thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. If you’d like a bit of extra flavor, reserve the fennel fronds for garnish later.

Thinly slice the radishes for a crunchy, peppery bite.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Once the rhubarb is roasted, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted rhubarb, sliced fennel, radishes, and chopped fresh basil. Toss gently to combine and distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add the Dressing and Burrata

Drizzle the salad with rhubarb syrup or balsamic vinegar, which adds a subtle tangy flavor. If you don’t have rhubarb syrup, balsamic vinegar works as an excellent substitute.

Tear the burrata into smaller pieces and scatter it on top of the salad. The creamy center of the burrata will melt into the salad, adding richness to the otherwise light dish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

If desired, garnish the salad with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor. This optional step adds a nutty richness that complements the savory and tangy flavors of the salad.

Serve the roasted rhubarb salad immediately for the best flavor, either as a starter or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your roasted rhubarb salad turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the rhubarb: Rhubarb should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it while roasting, as it can break down quickly if left too long in the oven.
2. Not seasoning the rhubarb properly: Roasting rhubarb with just a little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper helps to bring out its natural sweetness and balance the acidity. Don’t skip this step!
3. Choosing underripe fennel: Make sure the fennel is fresh and not too woody. If you find that your fennel bulb has a tough core, trim it carefully before slicing.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Rhubarb Salad

This fennel burrata salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Pair with grilled meats: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, or steak. The creamy burrata and tangy rhubarb provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meat.
• As a side dish: Serve this salad alongside other savory salads, such as a radish and fennel salad or fennel and apple salad to create a vibrant, vegetable-packed meal.
• Presentation tips: For an elegant presentation, serve the salad on a large platter, arranging the ingredients in a visually appealing way. Garnish with extra fennel fronds or edible flowers for a sophisticated look.

Recipe Swaps & Variations

You can easily modify this savory rhubarb salad based on your preferences:

• Add other vegetables: Roasted beets or carrots would make a wonderful addition to this salad, adding even more color and sweetness.
• Cheese alternatives: If you don’t have burrata on hand, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella, goat cheese, or feta for a different creamy, tangy element.
• Vegan version: To make this salad vegan, simply omit the burrata and instead use a vegan cheese alternative or top the salad with avocado for creaminess.

For another rhubarb-based recipe, try making Rhubarb Iced Tea to drizzle on desserts or pancakes!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover roasted rhubarb salad, it’s best to store it separately from the burrata. The salad itself will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the burrata will lose its creamy texture over time, so add it fresh when serving.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

• Baking sheet or roasting pan (for roasting the rhubarb)
• Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing fennel and radishes)
• Mixing bowl (for tossing the salad)
• Small food processor or jar (for making rhubarb syrup or dressing)

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Roasted Rhubarb Salad FAQs

• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
  Yes, you can roast the rhubarb and prepare the fennel and radishes ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble the salad and add the burrata just before serving to ensure the cheese remains fresh and creamy.
• What other fruits can I pair with this salad?
  If you’d like to add a bit of fruit, try pairing this salad with sliced apples or pears for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the tangy rhubarb.
• Can I use frozen rhubarb?
  While fresh rhubarb is ideal, you can use frozen rhubarb as well. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before roasting.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This roasted rhubarb salad with fennel and burrata is a standout dish that combines the best of savory and sweet. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. The roasted rhubarb adds a delightful tang, while the fennel and creamy burrata make each bite even more satisfying.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Be sure to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more exciting, savory rhubarb recipes and creative salad ideas.

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