Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re searching for a truly dazzling crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, let me introduce you to the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes. This vibrant Italian-inspired starter pairs creamy burrata and fragrant basil pesto with the juicy sweetness of oven-roasted cherry tomatoes—delivered on a golden bed of toasted crostini. Every bite bursts with flavor, texture, and color, making it just as perfect for entertaining as it is for a quick, indulgent snack at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll love how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients transform into something truly extraordinary. Each component of this Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes has a starring role—providing that creamy, tangy, herbaceous, or crunchy element that ties this recipe together.
- Burrata Cheese: The soul of this dish, burrata offers a creamy, luscious center perfect for mingling with pesto and roasted tomatoes.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Roast these little gems to boost their sweetness and juice—absolute magic alongside the burrata.
- Olive Oil: Drizzling the tomatoes in olive oil before roasting helps them caramelize and adds a hint of grassy richness.
- Salt: A sprinkle brings out all the best flavors—don’t skip it!
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked is best to brighten everything with a gentle touch of heat.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who love a gentle kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right hint of spice.
- Basil Pesto: Whether you go homemade or store-bought, pesto threads in that iconic punch of fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: The perfect, fragrant garnish that freshens each bite and adds a pop of green.
- Toasted Baguette Slices or Crostini: Crunchy crostini are your delicious vehicles for scooping up every bit—make extra, you’ll thank yourself!
How to Make Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes
Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your halved cherry tomatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle them lovingly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes if you crave a spark of heat. Slide them into the oven and let them roast for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for juicy, slightly caramelized tomatoes that have softened beautifully—their sweetness is about to shine!
Step 2: Prep the Serving Platter
While your tomatoes are roasting, take a pretty serving platter and generously spread the basil pesto in a shallow, painterly layer. This not only adds color and flavor, but also ensures every scoop of burrata gets a dance with the pesto.
Step 3: Assemble the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes
Once those tomatoes are gloriously roasted, gently set the balls of burrata right in the middle of your pesto bed. Spoon the warm, juicy tomatoes directly over and around the burrata, making sure some of that sweet tomato juice trickles into the pesto—and don’t hold back on piling it up!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Shower your creation with fresh basil leaves for that extra burst of green and herbaceous aroma. Then, surround the platter with crisp, toasted baguette slices or crostini for the ultimate dippable experience. Serve right away while the tomatoes are still silky and warm against that dreamy burrata.
How to Serve Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a must, but you can also add a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze if you want a little tangy depth. For special occasions, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a few shavings of parmesan elevate every mouthful. Presentation is part of the magic of the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes—make it as playful and colorful as you like!
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a tray of charcuterie and marinated olives. If you’re making it part of an Italian-themed spread, offer alongside antipasto skewers or grilled artichokes to keep the flavors light and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions by dividing the pesto, burrata, and tomatoes between small plates for an elegant dinner party starter. Or, for casual gatherings, offer everything family-style on a large platter with a mountain of crostini for everyone to dig in. You can even assemble the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes in mini mason jars for a fun handheld picnic treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The burrata may firm up a bit, and the pesto may soak into the tomatoes, but the flavors only intensify and continue to mingle in the best way possible.
Freezing
This appetizer isn’t freezer-friendly, as burrata and roasted tomatoes both lose their texture and creaminess after thawing. For optimal flavor and that signature creaminess, enjoy everything fresh or freshly refrigerated.
Reheating
To enjoy later, gently reheat only the tomatoes in the microwave or in a pan, then reassemble with fresh pesto and burrata just before serving. Skip reheating the cheese itself—room temperature is where burrata truly shines.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this appetizer?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings an extra layer of vibrancy and freshness to the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes. Just be sure to use fresh basil and quality olive oil for the best results.
Can I substitute mozzarella for burrata?
While mozzarella will work in a pinch, it won’t give you that creamy, spreadable center that makes burrata so special. If you want the authentic Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes experience, seek out burrata at your local cheese shop or deli.
How far in advance can I roast the tomatoes?
You can roast the tomatoes up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Warm them gently just before assembling so they mingle beautifully with the burrata and pesto.
What other breads go well with this recipe?
Aside from baguette or crostini, try grilled sourdough or focaccia for extra flavor and texture. Anything sturdy enough to scoop up those rich, juicy toppings will work perfectly.
Is the Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but be sure to serve with gluten-free bread or cracker options if needed to accommodate everyone at your table.
Final Thoughts
Let your next gathering shine with the irresistible Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes. It’s easy, colorful, and bursting with flavor—and one bite is usually all it takes to turn everyone at the table into instant fans! Give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, herby, sun-kissed bite.
Print
Pesto Burrata Appetizer Topped with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this exquisite Pesto Burrata Appetizer topped with juicy roasted tomatoes for a burst of Italian flavors. Creamy burrata cheese paired with vibrant pesto and warm roasted tomatoes make this a perfect starter for any occasion.
Ingredients
Burrata Cheese:
- 2 balls burrata cheese (about 4 oz each)
Roasted Tomatoes:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Toasted baguette slices or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast tomatoes: Place halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Roast for 15–20 minutes until caramelized.
- Assemble the dish: Spread basil pesto on a platter, place burrata on top, spoon roasted tomatoes over burrata. Garnish with basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve with toasted baguette slices or crostini.
Notes
- Best served at room temperature.
- You can roast the tomatoes ahead of time and warm them slightly before serving.
- For added depth, drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting, Assembly
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
