Carob Rusk Tomato Salad with Burrata, Olive Oil, and Fresh Herbs

From “Athens, Food Stories Love,” my forthcoming book exploring the culinary soul of Athens and Greek cuisine.Experience the taste of Greece with this easy Carob Rusk Tomato Salad featuring creamy burrata cheese, ripe summer tomatoes, extra-virgin Greek olive oil, and fresh aromatic herbs. Carob rusks, called paximadia in Greek, are a traditional staple beloved for their crunchy texture and chocolatey color. This healthy Greek salad recipe makes the perfect vegetarian appetizer or light lunch. Inspired by the flavors of Athens and classic Mediterranean diets, this carob rusk salad is quick to prepare and bursting with nutrition, flavor, and authentic Greek ingredients. Discover more authentic Greek recipes, food history, and Athenian cooking tips in “Athens, Food Stories Love.”

RATING

SERVES

RECIPES

Mediterranean Diet

Salads

Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Ingredients

6 to 8 small carob rusks Greek paximadia
2 large ripe summer tomatoes cored and cut into chunks
2 tablespoons fresh basil cut into chiffonade
1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped
Sea salt to taste
6 tablespoons extra-virgin Greek olive oil divided
1 ½-pound chunk burrata cheese, drained
Substitute fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable

Instructions

Prepare the Rusks: Place the carob rusks in a large serving bowl.
Mix the Tomatoes and Herbs: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato chunks, basil, oregano, sea salt, and 4 tablespoons of the olive oil. Toss well and let the mixture rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to release.
Assemble the Salad: Spoon the tomato mixture, with all its juices, over the rusks in the serving bowl, ensuring they are well-soaked. Let the rusks sit for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
Add the Burrata and Finish: Top the salad with the burrata cheese (or mozzarella) and season with a little more sea salt. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cheese and salad.
Serve: Serve immediately as a fresh Greek appetizer, light lunch, or unique side dish.

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Notes

Why This Carob Rusk Salad is Perfect for Greek Food Lovers
Rich in authentic Mediterranean flavors, this vegetarian salad celebrates Greece’s culinary heritage. The combination of wholesome carob rusks, juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, and aromatic Greek herbs makes it both nutritious and satisfying—an ideal recipe for fans of healthy Greek salads, fresh summer recipes, and anyone who loves the cuisine of Athens. Look for more Greek recipes and culinary stories in my upcoming book, “Athens, Food Stories Love.”