Print

Burrata Bruschetta

Burrata Bruschetta

Burrata Bruschetta is a creamy, fresh, and flavorful Italian appetizer that combines rich burrata cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crunchy toasted bread. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for casual gatherings or elegant dinners, offering a delightful balance of textures and customizable flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh Burrata Cheese – 4 oz
  • Ripe Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, diced
  • Fresh Basil Leaves – 1/4 cup, torn
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 2 tbsp, plus extra for drizzling
  • Crusty Italian Bread – 1 small loaf, sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
  • Garlic Clove – 1, halved
  • Balsamic Vinegar (optional) – 1 tsp
  • Sea Salt – to taste
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – to taste

Variations (Optional)

  • Roasted Red Peppers – 1/4 cup, sliced
  • Avocado Slices – 1/2 avocado
  • Prosciutto or Pancetta – 2 oz, thinly sliced
  • Arugula – 1/4 cup, as a substitute for basil
  • Pesto Sauce – 1 tbsp, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Slice the crusty Italian bread into thick 1/2-inch pieces. Lightly toast them until golden brown and crunchy. While still warm, rub each toasted slice with a halved garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlicky aroma that complements the toppings.
  2. Prep the Tomato Mixture: Dice the ripe cherry tomatoes into small pieces. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes with torn fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Assemble the Bruschetta: Generously spoon the tomato and basil mixture onto the garlic-rubbed toasted bread slices. Tear the fresh burrata cheese into pieces and gently place it atop the tomato mixture, allowing its creamy texture to contrast with the crunchy bread.
  4. Final Touches: Drizzle additional olive oil and, if desired, a few drops of balsamic vinegar over the assembled bruschetta. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a few basil leaves for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Use room temperature burrata cheese to enhance its creamy texture and ensure it slightly melts on warm bread.
  • Drain excess tomato juice to prevent soggy bread and keep the bruschetta crisp.
  • Toast bread until crunchy on the outside but still soft inside for the best texture.
  • Avoid overloading the toppings to maintain balance and ease of eating.
  • Fresh herbs like basil are essential for vibrant flavor and aroma.
  • Store bread and toppings separately if making ahead to maintain freshness and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Burrata bruschetta, Italian appetizer, creamy cheese, fresh tomatoes, easy recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free option