Burrata with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Figs, and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
This Burrata Appetizer features creamy burrata cheese served over a sweet and savory sautéed mixture of cherry tomatoes, dried figs, shallots, garlic, and fresh thyme, finished with a balsamic vinegar glaze and fresh basil. Paired with toasted baguette slices, it’s a perfect crowd-pleasing starter with a wonderful balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Veggies
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup dried figs, quartered
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Finishing Ingredients
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 16 ounces burrata cheese
- Fresh basil, coarsely chopped
- Additional kosher salt, to taste
To Serve
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Shallot: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the minced shallot and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomatoes, Figs, and Seasonings: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, quartered dried figs, kosher salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cover the pan and let the mixture sauté undisturbed for 10-12 minutes, allowing the tomatoes and figs to soften and release their juices.
- Incorporate Balsamic Vinegar: Remove the lid and pour in the balsamic vinegar. Stir gently to combine. Lower the heat to medium and continue sautéing, stirring occasionally, until excess liquid has evaporated and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Rest the Mixture: Remove the skillet from heat and let the tomato and fig mixture rest for 8-10 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
- Plate and Garnish: Spoon the tomato and fig mixture onto a serving dish, then place the burrata cheese on top. Sprinkle with coarsely chopped fresh basil and additional kosher salt to taste.
- Serve with Toasted Bread: Serve immediately alongside toasted baguette slices or your preferred dipping bread for scooping and enjoying the delicious topping.
Notes
- To toast the baguette, slice into ½-inch pieces and toast in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable, but burrata offers a creamier texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, keeping in mind the cheese adds some saltiness.
- For a vegan version, omit the burrata and serve with additional marinated vegetables or plant-based cheese alternatives.
- The mixture can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving, but fresh is best.
Keywords: Burrata appetizer, cherry tomatoes, dried figs, balsamic vinegar, Italian appetizer, toasted baguette, easy appetizer, vegetarian starter
