Dessert

Burrata with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Figs, and Balsamic Reduction Recipe

ByMaya Arden February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

Introduction

This Burrata Appetizer combines creamy burrata cheese with a warm, savory mixture of cherry tomatoes and dried figs. It’s an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that brightens any gathering or simple meal.

A black skillet filled with three white, soft mozzarella balls sprinkled with green herbs and black pepper, sitting on a bed of roasted cherry tomatoes that are vibrant red with some charred, darkened edges. Three toasted slices of golden-brown bread rest partly on top of the cheese and tomatoes, adding a crisp texture contrast to the dish. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface with a light-colored cloth nearby and a wooden bowl of red cherry tomatoes in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
¼ cup balsamic vinegar

16 ounces burrata cheese
Fresh basil, coarsely chopped
Additional kosher salt, to taste

1 baguette, sliced and toasted for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add the shallot and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Then add the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute.

Step 3: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, dried figs, kosher salt, and pepper. Cover and sauté undisturbed for 10-12 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the lid, add the balsamic vinegar, and stir. Reduce heat to medium and cook until the excess liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture rest for 8-10 minutes to cool slightly.

Step 6: Place the burrata on top of the tomato and fig mixture. Garnish with fresh basil and sprinkle additional kosher salt as desired.
Step 7: Serve immediately with toasted baguette or your favorite dipping bread.

Tips & Variations

For a sweeter touch, substitute dried figs with dried apricots or dates.

Use fresh thyme sprigs if available for a more vibrant flavor.
Serve with sourdough bread as a delicious alternative to baguette.
For extra richness, drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking up the burrata. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so avoid storing burrata on the tomato mixture if possible. Toast fresh bread before serving again.

How to Serve

This dish is served in a dark round pan, filled with a bottom layer of roasted mixed cherry tomatoes and olives, showing shades of deep red, orange, and black with a slightly wrinkled texture. On top, there are three large white dollops of soft, fresh burrata cheese, each sprinkled with chopped green herbs. Around the cheese, pieces of lightly toasted bread with a golden-brown crust are placed, some resting on the tomato mix. The colors contrast well, with the vivid tomatoes, bright white cheese, and warm bread all sitting on a dark pan against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the tomato and fig mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tomato and fig mixture a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Warm it gently before adding the burrata and serving.

What can I use if I can’t find burrata cheese?

If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, though it won’t have the same creamy center. You can also try stracciatella cheese if accessible for similar texture and flavor.