Name: Burrata Bruschetta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces; 3-4 balls of burrata cheese (about 8 oz each); 2-3 large tomatoes, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; ¼ cup olive oil; Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade); Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

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Burrata Bruschetta is one of those dishes that immediately elevates any meal or gathering. The first time I made it for a family dinner, I wasn’t sure how it would go over. But as soon as my family took their first bite, they were hooked. The creamy burrata, paired with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a perfectly toasted baguette, creates a heavenly combination of flavors and textures. This dish is simple but feels luxurious, making it a perfect appetizer for both casual get-togethers and more special occasions. It’s now a regular feature at our weekend brunches and holiday parties, and it never fails to impress. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to make but feels a little fancy, this Burrata Bruschetta is the way to go!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Burrata Bruschetta: 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf, 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing), 1 clove garlic (cut in half), 8 ounces fresh burrata cheese, 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (halved, or use heirloom tomatoes for added color), 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn or chiffonade), 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade), salt and pepper (to taste), and optionally, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, slice your baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Diagonal cuts give you more surface area, which is perfect for holding the toppings. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each piece with a bit of olive oil to help them crisp up and add flavor. Once the oven is preheated, toast the bread in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly crisp. As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, take the cut side of a garlic clove and rub it over the top of each slice. The warmth of the bread will help infuse it with just a hint of garlic flavor, adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prep the Tomatoes and Burrata

While the bread is toasting, prepare your tomatoes. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes and place them in a small bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some freshly cracked black pepper. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated. This simple seasoning helps bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, making them the perfect complement to the rich burrata. Next, carefully remove the burrata cheese from its packaging. Burrata is delicate, with a soft, creamy center, so handle it gently. Tear the burrata into small pieces or use a sharp knife to slice it. Don’t worry about making the pieces uniform—part of the beauty of burrata is its rustic, imperfect texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Bruschetta

Now it’s time to assemble your bruschetta. Take a toasted bread slice and top it with a generous spoonful of burrata. The cheese should be spread across the surface, allowing some of the creamy interior to spill out onto the bread. Then, add a few pieces of the seasoned tomatoes on top of the burrata. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle the bruschetta with torn or chiffonade basil leaves. The basil brings a pop of color and adds a lovely aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes and cheese. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this point.

Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze and Serve

The finishing touch is a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can use store-bought balsamic glaze, or if you have time, make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan until it thickens into a syrup. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Once drizzled, your Burrata Bruschetta is ready to serve! Arrange the bruschetta on a large platter or wooden board and watch them disappear as your guests dive in. They’re best enjoyed immediately while the bread is still warm and the cheese is soft and creamy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8 pieces (depending on the size of the baguette)
Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories

These values can vary slightly based on portion sizes and the specific ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

Burrata Bruschetta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

As an Appetizer: Perfect for dinner parties, brunches, or as part of a charcuterie board.
As a Light Lunch: Pair with a green salad and a glass of iced tea or lemonade.
For a Picnic: Pack the toasted bread and toppings separately, then assemble right before eating.
At a Cocktail Party: Serve as bite-sized canapés with toothpicks for easy snacking.
With Wine and Cheese: Serve alongside a cheese board for an indulgent, elegant spread.

Additional Tips

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on just a few ingredients, the quality of each component matters. Use the freshest tomatoes, high-quality olive oil, and the best burrata you can find.
Toast the Bread Just Right: You want the bread to be golden and crisp on the outside but still slightly soft in the middle. This will make it easier to bite into without everything crumbling.
Let the Burrata Shine: Don’t be tempted to overload the bruschetta with too many toppings. The star here is the burrata, so let it take center stage.
Make it Ahead: You can toast the bread and prepare the tomatoes ahead of time, but wait until the last minute to add the burrata and balsamic glaze to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Experiment with Flavors: If you want to mix things up, try adding a touch of honey, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or even some roasted garlic to the bruschetta for added depth and variety.

Recipe Variations

One of the wonderful things about bruschetta is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to make this dish your own:

Roasted Veggie Bruschetta: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant along with the burrata for a more hearty, veggie-packed version.
Pesto Burrata Bruschetta: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the bread before adding the burrata and tomatoes for a burst of herby flavor.
Fruit Twist: Try adding sliced strawberries or peaches to the burrata instead of tomatoes for a sweet and savory combination. Top with a drizzle of honey and fresh mint instead of balsamic.
Spicy Kick: Add a thin slice of roasted jalapeño or a drizzle of hot honey for those who like a little heat with their bruschetta.
Hearty Protein Addition: For a more filling option, add thin slices of prosciutto, or for a vegetarian twist, top with grilled tofu or tempeh.

Health Benefits Notes

Burrata Bruschetta not only tastes indulgent but can also be a relatively healthy option when enjoyed in moderation. Here are a few benefits of the key ingredients:

Burrata: While burrata is rich and creamy, it’s also a good source of protein and calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are high in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil provides healthy fats that are good for the heart and overall well-being.
Basil: Fresh basil adds flavor without calories and contains essential vitamins like A and K.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some great ideas for what to serve alongside your Burrata Bruschetta:

With a Soup: Pair with a light tomato bisque or a chilled gazpacho for a refreshing combination.
Salad Side: Serve with an arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a bright and refreshing pairing.
As Part of a Tapas Spread: Include the bruschetta on a larger spread of appetizers, like marinated olives, stuffed mushrooms, and crostini.
Brunch Pairing: Make it part of a brunch menu alongside scrambled eggs, avocado toast, and mimosas.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerating: Store any leftover bruschetta components separately. Keep the toasted bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, and the burrata and tomatoes in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Burrata does not freeze well, but you can freeze the toasted bread. Let the bread cool completely, then store it in an airtight bag for up to 1 month. Reheat the bread in the oven to crisp it back up before assembling the bruschetta.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: You’ll need a large baking sheet to toast the bread evenly.
Paring Knife: A small, sharp knife works best for halving the cherry tomatoes and tearing the burrata.
Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper will make cleanup easier and ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
Bread Knife: A good bread knife is essential for slicing the baguette cleanly and evenly.

FAQ Section

Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata? Yes, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute if you can’t find burrata. It won’t be as creamy, but it will still taste delicious.
What’s the best way to store leftover burrata? Store burrata in its original liquid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use a gluten-free baguette or bread of your choice.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes? Absolutely! Just dice them into small, bite-sized pieces.
How do I make balsamic glaze at home? Simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy.
Can I make the bread in advance? Yes, you can toast the bread a few hours in advance, but don’t top it with the burrata until just before serving.
What is the difference between burrata and mozzarella? Burrata is a type of mozzarella with a creamy center, giving it a richer, more luxurious texture.
Can I add other herbs besides basil? Yes, fresh oregano or thyme would work well, though basil is the most traditional.
Is this dish vegetarian? Yes, Burrata Bruschetta is vegetarian as long as you don’t add any meat-based toppings like prosciutto.
Can I make this dish vegan? You can make a vegan version by using a plant-based cheese alternative and omitting the burrata.

Burrata Bruschetta is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of burrata with fresh, simple ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, this dish is sure to impress!

Burrata Bruschetta