Description
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata
Juicy cherry tomatoes roasted to perfection and topped with creamy burrata! This dish combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the luscious, velvety burrata cheese, making it perfect to serve over pasta, as a salad topping, or simply with crusty bread. Originally a dish to celebrate summer harvests, it’s versatile enough for any season. Every bite bursts with flavor, reminding you of a warm summer day.
4 cups cherry tomatoes
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
8 oz burrata cheese
3 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
3. Bake for 30-35 mins until tomatoes burst.
4. Cool, then add burrata and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 35 mins
Kcal: 220
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, wash and thoroughly dry 4 cups of cherry tomatoes. Mince 4 cloves of garlic.
2. Season the Tomatoes: In a large baking dish, combine the tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated.
3. Roast to Perfection: Spread the tomatoes in a single layer. Roast for 30-35 minutes. The tomatoes are done when their skins are wrinkled, they have collapsed slightly, and their juices are bubbling in the dish.
4. Cool Slightly: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial as adding the burrata to piping-hot tomatoes will cause it to melt completely rather than stay creamy.
5. Add Cheese & Herbs: Place one or two 8-oz balls of burrata cheese in the center of the warm tomatoes. Gently tear them open to expose the creamy interior. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped basil over the entire dish.
6. Serve Immediately: Gently mix the cheese into the tomatoes at the table for a beautiful presentation. Serve right away while the tomatoes are warm and the cheese is soft.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish is a star in many settings. Serve it as a stunning appetizer with slices of toasted, crusty bread or grilled baguette for scooping. For a light meal, spoon it over a bed of peppery arugula. It also makes an incredible pasta sauce; simply toss the roasted tomatoes and creamy burrata with hot cooked pasta like linguine or rigatoni. For a heartier option, use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
How-to Summary
Roast seasoned cherry tomatoes with garlic at 400°F for 30-35 minutes. Let cool briefly, then top with fresh burrata cheese and chopped basil. Serve warm with bread, over pasta, or as a salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can roast the tomatoes ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before adding the room-temperature burrata and fresh basil.
What can I use instead of burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) is the best substitute, though it lacks the creamy center. A high-quality ricotta or even a soft goat cheese can work in a different way.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Note that the burrata will firm up when chilled.
My tomatoes are very juicy. Is that okay? Yes! The released juices combine with the olive oil to create a delicious sauce. If it seems too watery, you can roast the tomatoes for an additional 5 minutes.
Can I use dried basil? Fresh basil is highly recommended for its bright flavor. If you must substitute, use 1 tablespoon of dried basil mixed into the tomatoes before roasting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Burrata Too Early: Placing the burrata on scalding-hot tomatoes will make it melt into a soup. Always let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes first.
- Crowding the Pan: Ensure tomatoes are in a single layer. Overcrowding steams them instead of roasting, preventing caramelization.
- Using Cold Burrata: Take the burrata out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows it to soften and become perfectly creamy.
- Skipping the Resting Time: The brief cooling period lets the intense flavors of the tomatoes and garlic mellow and blend beautifully.
Conclusion
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata is a deceptively simple dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The contrast of sweet, bursting tomatoes and rich, creamy cheese is unforgettable. Whether as an elegant starter, a pasta sauce, or a vibrant side, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that celebrates quality ingredients. Master the simple steps, avoid the common pitfalls, and you’ll have a versatile culinary staple ready for any occasion.