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Let me share my favorite summer appetizer that makes everyone's eyes light up. This burrata bruschetta is pure magic combining creamy burrata with sweet juicy tomatoes and fresh basil. I love drizzling it with balsamic glaze right before serving. It's so pretty people always grab their phones for pictures before diving in.
Why You Need to Try This
Every time I serve this everyone asks for the recipe. It's got that perfect mix of creamy tangy and fresh flavors plus it looks totally fancy with barely any effort. I started making it for summer parties but now I find myself craving it year round. The burrata takes it from good to absolutely unforgettable.
What's In My Shopping Cart
- Burrata Cheese: The star of the show so creamy and rich. Can't find it? Buffalo mozzarella works too
- Tomatoes: I mix red and yellow ones for color. In summer I grab them from my garden or farmers market
- Fresh Basil: Don't even think about using dried. Fresh basil makes all the difference
- Good Bread: I love using crusty French bread or sourdough. Skip the sandwich bread
- Balsamic Glaze: That final sweet drizzle that brings it all together
- Olive Oil Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for flavor
Let's Put It Together
- Start with the Tomatoes
- First chop up your tomatoes add some minced garlic and tear up that fresh basil. Toss it all with a pinch of salt and pepper. I let this sit while I prep everything else it makes the flavors really pop
- Get the Bread Ready
- Slice your bread brush both sides with good olive oil and pop it in a 375°F oven. I watch it like a hawk until it gets perfectly golden and crispy
- Prep Your Burrata
- Gently open up that gorgeous ball of burrata. I love watching the creamy center ooze out it's like kitchen magic
- Time to Build
- Drain off any extra liquid from your tomatoes spoon them onto the crispy bread add a generous dollop of burrata and finish with a pretty drizzle of balsamic glaze
Keep It Crispy
- Tomato Tip: I always remove the seeds and extra juice nobody likes soggy bread
- Use This Not That: A slotted spoon is your friend when adding the tomatoes
- Toast It Right: Make sure that bread is really crispy it'll hold up better
Mix It Up
- Change the Cheese: Sometimes I use fresh mozzarella or ricotta when I can't find burrata
- Play with Tomatoes: Little cherry tomatoes are super sweet or mix colors for a pretty rainbow effect
- Add Some Heat: A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey takes it to another level
When to Serve It
This is my go to appetizer for so many occasions. It's perfect for summer parties when tomatoes are at their peak. I love serving it with chilled white wine or some bubbly rosé. When I have friends over for brunch I'll put out a big platter and watch it disappear. The colors just make any table look gorgeous.
What to Do With Extras
Got leftovers? Lucky you. I love tossing the tomato mixture with some greens and that creamy burrata for an amazing salad. Sometimes I'll top my grilled chicken with it or toss it with hot pasta. Even the leftover bread is great turned into crunchy croutons for soup.
Make It Look Amazing
Want to really wow your guests? I arrange these on my favorite wooden board with some fresh basil leaves scattered around. A little extra drizzle of that dark balsamic glaze makes it look like it came from a fancy restaurant. The best part is you can prep most of it ahead just assemble right before serving.
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Ways to Make It Your Own
- Switch Up the Herbs: Sometimes I use fresh thyme or oregano when I want something different
- Go Seasonal: In late summer I add sweet peaches or fresh figs it's incredible
- Add Some Heat: A little chili oil makes it extra special
- Make It Plant Based: My vegan friends love it with cashew cream cheese
The Secret to Its Success
You know what makes this recipe so special? It's all about those perfect contrasts. The cold creamy burrata against warm crispy bread. Sweet juicy tomatoes with tangy balsamic. Fresh herbs that wake up all the flavors. It's simple but somehow feels totally luxurious.
Keeping It Fresh
If you end up with extra tomato mixture it'll keep in the fridge for a couple days. Just give those bread slices a quick toast to crisp them up again before serving. My top tip? Always assemble these right before eating they're best when everything's fresh.
What to Drink With It
I love serving this with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Having a non-alcoholic party? Try some sparkling water with lemon slices it's so refreshing. Sometimes I'll put out a nice light appetizer spread with some cured meats and olives to go alongside.
A Recipe for Every Season
While this bruschetta really shines in summer when tomatoes are perfect it's become one of those appetizers I make all year round. It just works for everything from casual weekend get togethers to fancy holiday parties. The colors are so festive and everyone loves that creamy burrata.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make bruschetta ahead of time?
You can prepare the tomato mixture up to one day ahead and store it in the fridge. However, the bread should be toasted just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.
- → What's the best bread to use for bruschetta?
Fresh crusty bread like French baguette or sourdough works best. Avoid pre-sliced sandwich bread as it won't provide the right texture and won't hold up to the toppings.
- → How do I prevent the bruschetta from getting soggy?
Drain excess liquid from the diced tomatoes and let them sit with salt to release more moisture. Also, toast the bread well and assemble just before serving.
- → What can I substitute for burrata?
While burrata provides the best creamy texture, you could use fresh mozzarella or even ricotta as alternatives. Each will give a different but delicious result.
- → How many bruschetta should I plan per person?
Plan for about 3 pieces per person for a party setting. This can vary based on other foods being served and your guests' preferences.
Conclusion
A delightful appetizer that combines crispy toasted bread with fresh, ripe tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese. Perfect for entertaining or as a light starter.