Burrata Cheese Appetizer

I LOVE burrata cheese. If you do too, you will love this burrata appetizer.

I always have guests asking me for this recipe. It is so easy to make and very difficult to mess up! This recipe inspired my Phyllo Cups With Roasted Peppers & Burrata Cheese.

The colorful bell peppers and garlic cloves are roasted in the oven until slightly charred. They are then chilled before topping with a heaping pile of burrata cheese (mozzarella ball). It is a drool-worthy vegetarian appetizer EVERYONE will go nuts over.

It is best served with a super CRISPY Italian baguette so you've got something to 'sop up' all those wonderful juices! If you love serving appetizers but don't have burrata on hand, try my Roasted Red Pepper Crostini (with Ricotta Cheese).

Burrata cheese is a luxurious and creamy Italian cheese that's become increasingly popular in recent years. It's known for its delicate flavor, rich texture, and unique composition. Here's what you need to know about burrata cheese:

1. Composition: Burrata is made from cow's milk and has a distinctive structure. It consists of a soft, pouch-like exterior made from mozzarella cheese, which is filled with a creamy mixture of mozzarella curds and fresh cream. This combination gives burrata its luscious and creamy consistency.

2. Flavor and Texture: Burrata cheese has a mild, milky flavor with a hint of tanginess. Its texture is incredibly soft and creamy on the inside, similar to a creamy cheese or even a dessert-like texture, while the outer shell is slightly firmer due to the mozzarella layer.

3. Serving and Pairing: Burrata is typically served fresh, and it's best enjoyed at room temperature. It's often served as a standalone dish, drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with salt and pepper, and paired with crusty bread or fresh vegetables. It's also a popular addition to salads, where its creaminess adds a luxurious touch.

4. Storage: Since burrata is a fresh cheese, it should be consumed relatively soon after purchase to enjoy its best flavor and texture. Keep it refrigerated and consume it within a few days for optimal quality.

5. Culinary Uses: Burrata's creamy interior makes it an excellent choice for spreading on bread, crackers, or vegetables. It can also be a wonderful addition to pasta dishes, where the creamy center creates a rich and velvety sauce. Burrata's versatility allows it to shine in both savory and sweet applications.

6. Variations: While traditional burrata is made from cow's milk, you might find variations that include different flavors or herbs mixed into the creamy interior. Some may even incorporate different types of milk, like buffalo milk, for a unique twist. I find burrata in a container soaking in water.

Start by allowing the burrata to reach room temperature for about 15-20 minutes after taking it out of the refrigerator.

It tastes better when it is not super cold.

Once it's ready, place the burrata on a serving plate, either whole or with a gentle slit on top to reveal the creamy interior.

Drizzle high-quality extra-virgin olive oil over the cheese to enrich its taste, and add a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning. For a pop of freshness, garnish with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or chives.

Serve the burrata alongside accompaniments such as crusty bread, toasted baguette slices, or crostini. The choice is yours – from the classic combination with tomatoes and basil to prosciutto wraps or roasted vegetables – to complement its smooth and indulgent character.

How do you eat burrata appetizer?

1. Preparation:

   • Start by taking a moment to admire the presentation of the burrata on your plate. Its creamy interior and fresh exterior create an inviting visual.

2. Slice or Tear:

   • Use a knife to gently slice or tear open the top of the burrata. This reveals the luscious cream-filled center.

3. Dipping or Spreading:

   • Dip a piece of crusty bread, toasted baguette, or crostini into the creamy center of the burrata. Alternatively, you can spread the burrata onto the bread using a knife.

4. Combining Flavors:

🧑‍🍳 Aleka's Tips

• Chopping up the burrata ball is recommended since most guests have a hard time dipping into the ball without using a fork.
• Make sure to mix of the colors of your peppers to make it more appealing and tastier.
• Cut your peppers thinly and in bite-sized pieces so its easy to dip into.
• Serve with a spoon to guests can scoop some out onto a plater or directly onto their bread.
• If your peppers are too dry, don't be afraid to top with more olive oil. It should be a "soupy" appetizer.