Description
This Burrata Bruschetta with Roasted Tomatoes recipe is a delightful Italian appetizer featuring caramelized roasted tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, fresh basil, and a flavorful balsamic reduction, all layered on toasted crusty bread with a hint of pesto. Perfect for entertaining or a light snack, it combines simple ingredients to create a fresh, vibrant dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 pound Campari or plum tomatoes
- 5 cloves fresh garlic (smashed and left in peel)
- handful fresh basil leaves
Oils & Condiments
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- sea salt (or a flakey salt like Maldon)
- freshly ground black pepper
- balsamic reduction
- 1 cup pesto (or a small jar)
Bread & Cheese
- 1 baguette or other crusty bread
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
Instructions
- Prep: Remove the burrata cheese from the refrigerator about 30 minutes prior to serving to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tomatoes in half. Place the tomatoes and the smashed garlic cloves (left in their peels) in a baking dish, then toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Roast: Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to caramelize and develop golden edges, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Toast: While the tomatoes are roasting, slice the baguette diagonally into ½ inch slices. Drizzle or brush both sides of the slices lightly with the remaining olive oil. Toast the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until the edges are lightly golden brown. Alternatively, grill the bread slices on a stovetop skillet until crisp and golden.
- Assemble: Once roasted, squeeze the soft garlic cloves out of their peels and mash them gently. Spread the mashed roasted garlic onto each toasted baguette slice. Next, spread about 1 teaspoon of pesto on top. Place 1 to 2 halves of roasted tomato on each slice. Tear the burrata cheese into pieces by hand and add a piece atop each bruschetta. Finally, drizzle balsamic reduction over the assembled slices and garnish with a pinch of sea salt and some torn fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve the burrata bruschetta immediately at room temperature or slightly warm to fully enjoy the flavors and creamy texture.
Notes
- Allowing burrata to come to room temperature enhances its creamy texture and flavor.
- Use a flakey sea salt like Maldon for the best finishing touch.
- Balsamic reduction can be store-bought or homemade by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened.
- For a vegan option, substitute burrata with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- The bread can be toasted in the oven or on the stovetop for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
