Burrata Bruschetta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Burrata Bruschetta is a sophisticated yet simple dish that’s bursting with flavor. The creamy burrata provides a rich contrast to the bright, tangy tomatoes and the crunchy texture of the toasted bread. The addition of fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. It’s the perfect appetizer for a summer gathering, a date night, or whenever you crave something light and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of rustic baguette or ciabatta bread

• 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 8 oz)

• 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 clove garlic, halved (optional, for rubbing on the bread)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Toast the bread:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also rub the toasted bread with the cut sides of the garlic for added flavor if desired.

2. Prepare the tomatoes:

• In a small bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with the chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine.

3. Assemble the bruschetta:

• On each piece of toasted bread, place a generous spoonful of the tomato and basil mixture. Gently tear or slice the burrata and place a piece of cheese on top of each bruschetta.

4. Finish with balsamic glaze:

• Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the burrata and tomato mixture for a tangy sweetness. Optionally, you can add a little more olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

• Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Burrata Bruschetta as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8-10 bruschetta, depending on the size of the bread slices.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use heirloom tomatoes: If available, heirloom tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness that pairs beautifully with burrata.

• Spicy kick: Add a few red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a little heat.

• Roasted garlic: If you love garlic, add roasted garlic to the tomato mixture for a deeper, sweeter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This dish is best served fresh, as the bread will lose its crispness. However, you can store the leftover tomato and basil mixture in the fridge for up to 1 day. The burrata should be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

• Reheating: If you have leftover bruschetta, reheat the bread slices in the oven briefly to regain some crispness, then top with the fresh tomato mixture and burrata.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of burrata?

Yes, you can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella for a similar flavor, though burrata’s creaminess adds a unique richness to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While you can prepare the tomato and basil mixture ahead of time, the bread and burrata should be assembled just before serving to maintain the best texture.

3. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar, but balsamic glaze adds a thicker, sweeter texture. If using vinegar, just drizzle lightly to avoid overpowering the flavors.

4. Can I make this with gluten-free bread?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread in place of the regular bread, and the recipe will still taste amazing.

5. How do I make this dish more filling?

You can add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a fried egg to make this a more substantial meal.

6. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil works best for this dish, you can substitute dried basil if fresh basil is unavailable. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of the 1/4 cup of fresh basil.

7. Can I make this dish vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the burrata with a vegan cheese alternative such as cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella.

8. Can I serve this with a side dish?

Yes! Burrata Bruschetta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of pasta.

9. How do I store leftover bruschetta?

While the bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover tomato and basil mixture in the fridge for up to 1 day. The bread will lose its crispness, so it’s best to reheat the bread and assemble it fresh.

10. Can I make the tomato mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato and basil mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just assemble the bruschetta with the burrata right before serving.

Conclusion

Burrata Bruschetta is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the rich creaminess of burrata cheese with the freshness of tomatoes and basil. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a light snack, this appetizer is sure to impress. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, Burrata Bruschetta is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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