Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
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If you love bold, vibrant flavors that bring an irresistible zing to any gathering, the Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe is going to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser. This dish beautifully balances the creamy, rich texture of burrata with the spicy, tangy kick of Calabrian chilis and a medley of fresh, colorful ingredients. Each bite bursts with freshness and just enough heat to keep you coming back for more. It’s elegant yet incredibly simple, making it the perfect starter for a cozy dinner or an impressive appetizer for your next party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s where simplicity shines. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmony of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish stand out without any fuss.
- 10 ounces heirloom cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and bright, they form the vibrant base of the topping.
- 2 tablespoons chopped Calabrian chilis: Adds fiery depth and a smoky allure that defines the recipe’s character.
- 2 tablespoons oil from the Calabrian chili jar: Infuses a rich chili essence right into the mix for extra flavor intensity.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides a sharp, tangy note that balances the heat and creaminess perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon capers: Little bursts of briny goodness that add complexity and a delightful salty punch.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley: Fresh and herbaceous, it brightens the overall flavor and adds a pop of green.
- 1 large garlic clove, minced: For subtle warmth and aromatic depth that lingers invitingly.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the individual flavors, making them shine through.
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper: Just enough to add subtle heat and spice.
- 16 ounces mini burrata balls: Creamy and luscious, these little treasures bring the indulgence that ties everything together.
- 1 loaf rustic ciabatta: A crusty, chewy base that provides satisfying texture and a perfect vehicle for the topping.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Used to crisp the bread to golden perfection with a rich, fruity flavor.
- 1-2 large garlic cloves (whole): Rubbing these on the toasted bread imparts a subtle, fragrant garlic kiss.
How to Make Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Make the Tomato Mixture
Start by grabbing a large bowl and adding the heirloom cherry tomatoes, chopped Calabrian chilis, and the flavorful oil from the chili jar. The combination instantly creates a lively, spicy base. Next, stir in red wine vinegar to introduce a bright acidity that cuts through the richness. Add in the briny capers, fresh parsley, minced garlic, kosher salt, and a pinch of pepper. Mixing all these together lets the ingredients marry beautifully—then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or, even better, up to a whole day to let those flavors deepen and mingle.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your rustic ciabatta into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick slices, then cut each slice vertically in half for the perfect serving size. Lay them out on a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper for that irresistible seasoning touch. Bake the bread for about 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. The magic step here is to rub a whole garlic clove over the warm bread, infusing it with a delicious garlicky aroma that complements the spicy topping incredibly well.
Step 3: Assemble the Appetizer
Now for the fun part: arrange your mini burrata balls in a beautiful shallow serving dish or bowl. Pour the marinated tomato and Calabrian chili mixture generously on top, ensuring each burrata ball is surrounded by that vibrant, spicy blend. Serve with the toasted ciabatta on the side for guests to pile up their perfect bites. The creamy burrata combined with the zesty tomato mixture and crispy bread creates a sensational symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle a few fresh parsley leaves over the top right before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil not only adds sheen but also boosts the richness. For those who love a little extra heat, toss a few red pepper flakes or a touch more finely chopped Calabrian chili right on top. Each garnish layer adds personality and invites guests to customize their experience.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine or a sparkling rosé to balance the spicy and creamy elements. If you want to create a full meal experience, include a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or a summer vegetable grilled medley. Light sides will maintain the bright and fresh feel that makes this recipe unforgettable.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe stand out at your next gathering? Serve it deconstructed on elegant individual plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for contrast. Alternatively, create a vibrant bruschetta bar where guests can scoop their own tomato mixture and burrata onto toasted crostini. Using small glass jars or ramekins for individual servings can also add a chic and practical touch for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe, store the tomato mixture and burrata separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the burrata fresh and the tomatoes from making the bread soggy. The mixture will stay flavorful for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy again without losing any of that vibrant taste.
Freezing
Because burrata has a delicate, creamy texture, freezing is not recommended as it can alter its consistency and become watery upon thawing. However, you can freeze the tomato and chili mixture if needed. Just thaw it slowly in the fridge and stir before serving, but fresh preparation will always yield the best results.
Reheating
This appetizer is best enjoyed fresh at room temperature, especially because burrata is so delicate. If you want to gently warm the tomato mixture, do so in a microwave for no more than 15-20 seconds, but never heat the burrata. Toast fresh bread rather than reheating to keep that crispiness that makes every bite so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chili peppers instead of Calabrian chilis?
While fresh chili peppers can add heat, Calabrian chilis have a unique smoky and slightly fruity flavor that really defines this appetizer. If you substitute, look for something with a similar flavor profile, but adding Calabrian chili oil is key to capturing the authentic taste.
What if I can’t find mini burrata balls?
You can absolutely use regular burrata and tear it into smaller pieces or use fresh mozzarella for a milder, less creamy option. Just keep in mind that burrata’s creamy center is what makes the dish absolutely special.
Is this appetizer suitable for a vegan diet?
Since burrata is a cheese product, this appetizer is not vegan. However, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese alternatives or cashew-based cheeses, but the taste and texture will be different from the traditional recipe.
How spicy is this appetizer?
The Calabrian chilis give it a medium heat with a smoky undertone that’s warming rather than overwhelming. You can adjust the amount of chilis or oil to suit your heat preference, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead and serve it later?
Yes! The tomato and chili mixture actually tastes better when it has time to marinate and develop deeper flavors. Just wait to assemble with burrata and bread right before serving to keep everything fresh and textures perfect.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe enough. It’s one of those dishes that’s deceptively simple but delivers an extraordinary flavor experience sure to impress your family and friends. Whether for a casual night in or a festive celebration, it’s a fresh, colorful, and vibrant plate you’ll find yourself making again and again. Go ahead, try it out and watch everyone swoon over these irresistible flavors!
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Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer featuring marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes infused with spicy Calabrian chilis, complemented by creamy mini burrata balls and crispy garlic-rubbed ciabatta bread. Perfect for a shareable starter that combines spicy, tangy, and creamy elements in one elegant dish.
Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 10 ounces heirloom cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped Calabrian chilis
- 2 tablespoons oil from the Calabrian chili jar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Appetizer Components
- 16 ounces mini burrata balls
- 1 loaf rustic ciabatta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1–2 large garlic cloves (whole, for rubbing on bread)
Instructions
- Make the Tomato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the heirloom cherry tomatoes, chopped Calabrian chilis, Calabrian chili oil, red wine vinegar, capers, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all flavors and allow the mixture to marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to one day to develop the full depth of flavor.
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the rustic ciabatta into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick slices and cut each slice in half vertically for easier serving. Arrange the slices on a large rimmed baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle kosher salt and pepper over the top. Bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes until the bread is crisp and has a light golden color. As soon as the bread comes out of the oven and is still hot, rub the surface with a whole garlic clove to infuse it with a subtle garlic aroma.
- Assemble the Appetizer: Arrange the mini burrata balls in a large shallow serving dish or bowl. Spoon the marinated tomato and chili mixture over the burrata, ensuring an even distribution to maximize flavor with every bite. Serve immediately alongside the warm, garlic-infused toasted ciabatta slices for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Notes
- The tomato mixture can be prepared several hours in advance or overnight to enhance the flavor through marination.
- Adjust the amount of Calabrian chilis to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute ciabatta with gluten-free bread and follow the same toasting instructions.
- Use fresh burrata for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to one day, but bread is best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
