Name: Burrata Cheese Appetizer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) container burrata cheese (typically 2 balls); 5 large bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced into ~¼″ strips; 5 garlic cloves, smashed; 6 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn; 1 Tbsp aged balsamic vinegar or glaze; ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil; Fresh Italian baguette, for serving; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

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Creamy burrata nestled among roasted peppers and garlic, finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of aged balsamic—served with crusty baguette for dipping. Simple, colorful, and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Burrata Cheese Appetizer effortlessly combines creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in one elegant dish. Roasting peppers with garlic brings out their natural sweetness, while burrata and balsamic glaze add lush richness. It’s a stunning, shareable starter that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (8 oz) container burrata cheese (typically 2 balls)
5 large bell peppers (use a mix of red, yellow, orange, and green), sliced into ~¼″ strips
5 garlic cloves, smashed (not chopped)
6 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
1 Tbsp aged balsamic vinegar or glaze
½ cup extra‑virgin olive oil
Fresh Italian baguette, for serving
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

1. Roast Peppers and Garlic

Preheat oven to 400 °F (205 °C).
On a baking sheet, arrange pepper strips and smashed garlic cloves. Season with salt and pepper.
Drizzle generously with olive oil (about ½ cup), toss to coat evenly.
Roast for ~25 minutes, until peppers are softened and lightly charred.

2. Cool and Assemble

Transfer roasted peppers, garlic, and residual oil into a shallow serving bowl or dish. Allow to cool to room temperature or chill for at least one hour.
Tear or slice the burrata balls and place them in the center of the dish.

3. Garnish and Serve

Drizzle aged balsamic vinegar or glaze over the top.
Scatter torn basil leaves across the dish.
Serve with sliced baguette—warm or at room temperature—for dipping.

Servings And Timing

Serves: 4–6 as an appetizer
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~25 minutes
Chill & assembly time: ~1 hour (optional to chill)
Total time: ~1¾ hours (including chill time)

Variations

Add olives or capers: Scatter kalamata olives or capers for briny contrast.
Herb twist: Add fresh thyme or oregano with basil.
Spicy kick: Drizzle with chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving.
Honey drizzle: Swap balsamic for honey for a sweeter finish.

Storage/Reheating

Roasted pepper mixture: Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat or serve cold.
Burrata: Best used fresh—do not store once cut.
Assembled: Serve immediately once assembled for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use roasted red peppers from a jar?

Yes—drain them well and reheat lightly before assembling for similar flavor and texture.

2. Can I substitute burrata with mozzarella?

You can, but burrata adds extra creaminess and flavor depth.

3. Is balsamic glaze necessary?

Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and shine, but aged balsamic vinegar works well too.

4. How should I serve the baguette?

Slice and serve fresh or lightly toast for extra crunch.

5. Can I make this ahead?

Prepare the roasted vegetables in advance. Add burrata, basil, and balsamic just before serving.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store roasted vegetables in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Discard leftover burrata after 2 hours at room temperature.

7. Can I serve it warm?

Yes—serve roasted peppers still slightly warm, then top with burrata and rest of toppings.

8. What wine pairs well?

Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, or Prosecco.

9. Is this gluten-free?

Yes—omit the baguette or serve with gluten-free bread.

10. Can I add protein?

Include slices of prosciutto, grilled chicken, or white beans for a more substantial appetizer.

Conclusion

This Burrata Cheese Appetizer brings together creamy burrata, roasted peppers, garlic, and bright basil in a visually stunning dish that’s easy to prepare. With crusty bread for dipping and a final balsamic drizzle, it’s a sophisticated yet approachable starter that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every luscious bite!