Description
This Pesto Burrata Appetizer features creamy burrata cheese topped with juicy, oven-roasted cherry tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs. Drizzled with balsamic glaze and garnished with fresh basil, this vibrant and flavorful appetizer serves beautifully with crusty bread, crostini, or crackers for dipping. It’s an easy yet elegant starter perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Tomatoes
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Main Ingredients
- 1 ball fresh burrata cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Crusty bread, crostini, or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Roast the tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss gently to coat all tomatoes evenly. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until the tomatoes are soft, juicy, and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the burrata and pesto: Place the ball of fresh burrata in the center of a serving plate or shallow dish. Spoon the pesto around the burrata, creating a vibrant green base that complements the creamy cheese.
- Assemble the appetizer: Carefully spoon the roasted tomatoes over the burrata, allowing some of the tasty tomato juices to drizzle down onto the pesto for extra flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Drizzle the assembled dish with balsamic glaze to add a touch of sweetness and complexity. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top for color and aroma. Serve immediately with crusty bread, crostini, or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- You can use either store-bought or homemade pesto depending on your preference.
- If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar by simmering it until thickened.
- To serve a crowd, multiply the recipe and arrange on a large platter.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute burrata with a vegan cheese alternative.
