I love this appetizer because it strikes the perfect balance of creamy, fresh, and crispy. The burrata is rich and indulgent, the tomato mixture is bright and tangy, and the toasted bread adds just the right crunch. It’s also versatile—I can drizzle it with pesto, top it with herbs, or even add cured meats for a heartier platter. It comes together quickly, which makes it ideal when I want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 ball of fresh burrata cheese (about 8 ounces) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish) Salt and pepper, to taste 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat) 1 baguette or crusty bread, sliced 1 tablespoon pesto (optional, for drizzling)
Directions
In a medium bowl, I combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil. I drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. I stir gently and set it aside.
I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). I slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices, arrange them on a baking sheet, and brush lightly with olive oil on both sides.
I toast the bread in the oven for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown. Once out, I sometimes rub a cut garlic clove on the warm bread for extra flavor.
On a serving platter, I place the burrata cheese and gently cut into it to expose the creamy interior. I spoon the tomato mixture over the burrata along with its juices.
I drizzle extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top, garnish with basil, and if I’m using pesto, I drizzle that too.
I arrange the toasted bread slices around the burrata and serve right away.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4–6 servings. Prep time is about 15 minutes, cooking time for the bread is 7 minutes, for a total of around 22 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I swap cherry tomatoes for heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season. If I want more depth, I roast the tomatoes briefly before adding them. For a heartier spread, I add salami, or marinated olives. I also like trying different breads—ciabatta or focaccia make it extra special. For a fresh twist, I add lemon zest to the tomato mixture.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover tomatoes separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. The burrata should also be kept covered in the fridge and used within 1–2 days for the best texture. I toast fresh bread when ready to serve again since the original slices lose their crispness over time.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prep the tomato mixture ahead, but I assemble everything just before serving.
What is burrata cheese?
It’s a creamy Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, soft on the outside with a luscious, creamy center.
Can I use mozzarella instead?
Yes, fresh mozzarella works, but burrata is creamier and more indulgent.
Can I roast the tomatoes instead of serving fresh?
Yes, roasting adds a deeper, sweeter flavor that I sometimes prefer.
What’s the best bread to serve with this?
I like baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia toasted until golden.
How do I make it spicier?
I add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes, but I prefer serving it at room temperature with warm bread.
How do I keep the burrata from spreading too much?
I cut into it gently and let it sit in the middle of the platter to hold its shape.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought works fine, but homemade pesto adds extra freshness.
Conclusion
Burrata Cheese with Cherry Tomato Appetizer is one of my favorite dishes to serve when I want something simple yet impressive. The creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread create a perfect balance that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always leaves my guests impressed and satisfied.
Burrata Cheese with Cherry Tomato Appetizer is an elegant yet simple dish made with creamy burrata, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and toasted bread. Perfect for gatherings, it’s fresh, indulgent, and customizable with pesto, herbs, or cured meats.
Total Time:22 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings
Ingredients
1 ball fresh burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 baguette or crusty bread, sliced
1 tbsp pesto (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently and set aside.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice baguette into 1/2-inch slices, arrange on baking sheet, and brush lightly with olive oil.
Toast bread in oven 5–7 minutes until golden. Rub with a cut garlic clove if desired.
On a serving platter, place burrata and gently cut into it to expose the creamy center.
Spoon tomato mixture over burrata with its juices. Drizzle extra olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and pesto if using.
Arrange toasted bread slices around burrata and serve immediately.
Notes
Swap cherry tomatoes with heirloom or roasted tomatoes for variety.
Add marinated olives, salami, or prosciutto for a heartier spread.
Try different breads like ciabatta or focaccia.
Add lemon zest for a fresh twist.
Store tomatoes separately in fridge up to 2 days; use burrata within 1–2 days.
