Mini Tomato & Burrata Appetizer

 

Introduction

This elegant appetizer combines creamy burrata with sweet roasted tomatoes, nutty pine nuts, and fragrant basil pesto. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive, perfect for serving with crusty bread at gatherings or as a starter for a special meal.

Ingredients

• Mini tomatoes – 2 cups

• Olive oil – 2 tbsp

• Chili flakes – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)

• Pine nuts – 2 tbsp

• Burrata cheese – 1 ball (about 200 g)

• Basil pesto – 2–3 tbsp

• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or mint) – for garnish

• Crusty bread – for serving

Method

1. Roast the tomatoes:

   • Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).

   • Place mini tomatoes on a baking tray.

   • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili flakes.

   • Roast for 15–20 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.

2. Toast the pine nuts:

   • In a dry pan over medium heat, toast pine nuts until golden brown.

   • Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the burrata:

   • Pat the burrata gently with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.

   • Place it in the center of a ceramic plate or serving tray.

   • Split and spread the burrata around the center with a fork to create a creamy base.

4. Assemble the appetizer:

   • Surround the burrata with roasted tomatoes.

   • Add dollops of basil pesto over the tomatoes.

   • Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs on top.

5. Serve:

   • Pair with slices of crusty bread for scooping up the creamy burrata and roasted tomatoes.

✅ This appetizer is rich, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.