Creamy Burrata with Fresh Pesto and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

The Ultimate Creamy Burrata Pesto & Roasted Cherry Tomato Recipe

Crafting a delightful burrata with fresh pesto and roasted cherry tomatoes brings pure culinary magic to your table.

Soft cheese lovers will instantly fall in love with this Italian-inspired dish.

Mediterranean ingredients dance together creating an irresistible symphony of flavors.

Bright red tomatoes caramelize beautifully under intense heat, releasing sweet aromatic notes.

Fragrant basil pesto adds vibrant green complexity to each creamy bite.

Simple ingredients transform into an elegant appetizer that feels simultaneously rustic and sophisticated.

An unexpected combination that promises to delight even the most discerning palate awaits you.

Dive into this recipe and experience a taste sensation that will leave everyone craving more.

Helpful Tips For Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

  • Roast cherry tomatoes on high heat to caramelize edges and intensify their natural sweetness, creating deeper flavor profiles.
  • Select high-quality, fresh burrata at room temperature for maximum creaminess and smooth texture when serving.
  • Store extra pesto in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning and maintain vibrant green color.
  • Prepare roasted tomatoes ahead of time and store in refrigerator, warming slightly before assembling the dish to preserve their delicate texture.
  • Use extra virgin olive oil when roasting tomatoes for richer taste and ensure even coating by gently tossing ingredients before baking.

Fun Twists On Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace pesto with olive tapenade, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle za'atar seasoning for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Spicy Southwestern Spin: Mix chipotle peppers into the pesto, top with roasted corn kernels, and drizzle with lime-infused olive oil for a zesty kick.
  • Truffle Elegance: Drizzle white truffle oil over the burrata, use black garlic pesto, and add shaved parmesan for a luxurious gourmet experience.
  • Summer Garden Blend: Incorporate roasted zucchini and bell peppers alongside cherry tomatoes, use herb-infused pesto with fresh thyme and rosemary.

Perfect Pairings For Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

  • Perfectly Paired Wine Companions: Select crisp, acidic white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complement the creamy burrata and brighten the pesto's herbal notes.
  • Adventurous Beverage Match: Choose sparkling rosé to enhance the roasted tomatoes' sweetness while cutting through the cheese's richness with its effervescent character.
  • Mediterranean Bread Partners: Serve rustic ciabatta or focaccia alongside the appetizer, allowing guests to soak up the pesto and tomato juices with hearty, olive oil-brushed slices.
  • Refreshing Herbal Accompaniment: Prepare a light basil-infused lemonade that mirrors the fresh pesto ingredients and provides a zesty, cooling contrast to the warm roasted tomatoes.

How To Store Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

  • Store leftover burrata and pesto in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep separated from roasted tomatoes to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Transfer fresh pesto into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer frozen cubes to a freezer bag. Use within 3 months for best flavor and quality.
  • Warm roasted tomatoes in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwaving burrata to prevent texture breakdown. Bring cheese to room temperature before serving.
  • Drizzle fresh olive oil over stored ingredients to revive flavors. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil to enhance the original dish's vibrant taste.

Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes FAQs

  • What is burrata cheese?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Its outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it a soft, creamy texture that oozes when cut.

  • How do I know if my burrata is fresh?

Fresh burrata should feel soft and heavy, with a smooth white exterior. When you cut into it, the creamy center should flow out easily. It should have a mild, milky smell and be consumed within 1-2 days of purchase.

  • Can I make pesto at home?

Yes, homemade pesto is simple. Blend fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Adjust ingredients to taste and consistency.

  • What type of bread works best with this appetizer?

Why You’ll Love Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

  • Boost Flavor Complexity: Transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience with roasted tomatoes, creamy burrata, and vibrant pesto that dance together in delightful harmony.
  • Create Restaurant-Quality Appetizer: Impress guests with a professional-looking dish that requires minimal culinary skills but delivers maximum visual and taste appeal.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by switching herbs, adding different spices, or serving with alternative bread options to match personal preferences and dietary needs.
  • Quick Entertaining Solution: Perfect for spontaneous gatherings, dinner parties, or elegant starter that comes together faster than traditional appetizers, ensuring stress-free hosting.

What You’ll Need For Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Main Ingredients:
  • Burrata Cheese: A creamy, soft Italian cheese with a rich and delicate flavor that serves as the centerpiece of this appetizer.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and vibrant small tomatoes that add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
  • Fresh Pesto: A classic Italian sauce made with aromatic herbs that provides a bright and flavorful base.
Seasoning and Spices:
  • Olive Oil, Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Essential seasonings that enhance the roasted tomatoes' flavor and add depth to the dish.
Garnish and Finishing Touches:
  • Balsamic Glaze, Fresh Basil Leaves: Optional sweet drizzle and fresh herb garnish that add extra layers of flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Accompaniment:
  • Crostini, Crusty Bread: Crispy bread options perfect for dipping and enjoying the creamy cheese and flavorful pesto.

Steps To Make Creamy Burrata With Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking sheet and spread out halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle these little gems with olive oil and sprinkle with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder

Toss everything together so each tomato gets a perfect coating. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn soft, slightly caramelized, and start to burst with juicy goodness. Pull them out and let them chill while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Create Pesto Base

Grab a serving platter and place the creamy burrata right in the center. Take your fresh pesto and generously spoon it around the cheese, creating a vibrant green landscape. This will be the delicious foundation of your appetizer.

Step 3: Add Roasted Tomatoes and Finishing Touches

Carefully scatter the roasted cherry tomatoes over the pesto, letting their sweet juices mingle with the herbal green sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some balsamic glaze for an extra flavor punch. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a beautiful pop of color and herbal aroma.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Bring out some toasted crostini or chunky crusty bread slices. Invite your guests to dive in and scoop up the creamy burrata with roasted tomatoes and pesto. Watch as everyone’s eyes light up with the first bite!

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Creamy Burrata with Fresh Pesto and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Creamy Burrata with Fresh Pesto and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe


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4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Silky burrata cheese meets its match in homemade pesto and roasted cherry tomatoes, creating a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Crisp basil, golden olive oil, and sweet caramelized tomatoes invite you to savor this simple yet elegant Italian appetizer.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-ounce) burrata cheese ball
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto

Seasoning and Oils:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Garnish and Serving:

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Crostini or crusty bread

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C), preparing a baking sheet for roasting cherry tomatoes with precision and care.
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and distribute them evenly across the baking sheet, ensuring maximum caramelization potential.
  3. Generously coat the tomatoes with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, massaging the ingredients to create a uniform flavor profile.
  4. Roast the tomatoes for 15-20 minutes, monitoring until they become soft, slightly charred, and beautifully burst open, releasing their intense sweetness.
  5. Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven and let them rest while preparing the presentation.
  6. Select a elegant serving platter and gently place the burrata cheese at its center, allowing it to be the focal point of the dish.
  7. Artfully spoon fresh pesto around the burrata, creating a vibrant and aromatic base that complements the creamy cheese.
  8. Carefully arrange the roasted cherry tomatoes atop and around the burrata, allowing their caramelized juices to mingle with the pesto.
  9. Optional: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the dish to introduce a subtle sweetness and enhance the overall flavor complexity.
  10. Scatter fresh basil leaves across the plate for a final touch of color and herbaceous aroma.
  11. Serve immediately alongside toasted crostini or crusty bread, inviting guests to create their own perfect bites.

Notes

  • Select room-temperature burrata for the creamiest, most luxurious texture that melts beautifully when served.
  • Roast cherry tomatoes until they’re slightly charred and caramelized to enhance their natural sweetness and develop deeper flavor profiles.
  • Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread or replacing crostini with vegetable crudités for a lighter, low-carb option.
  • Customize the pesto by substituting traditional basil with alternatives like spinach, kale, or arugula for varied nutritional benefits and unique taste experiences.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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