Burrata with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Figs, and Balsamic Reduction Recipe
This Burrata Appetizer features creamy burrata cheese served atop a warm, savory-sweet sautéed mixture of cherry tomatoes and dried figs infused with garlic, shallots, thyme, and balsamic vinegar. Perfect as a sophisticated starter or shareable snack, it is paired with toasted baguette slices for dipping into the luscious cheese and fruit blend.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
Main Filling
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup dried figs, quartered
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
Assembly & Garnish
- 16 ounces burrata cheese
- Fresh basil, coarsely chopped
- Additional kosher salt, to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted for serving
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Shallots: Add the minced shallot to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme and continue to sauté for about 1 more minute until fragrant, ensuring the flavors meld well.
- Cook Tomatoes and Figs: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, quartered dried figs, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cover the skillet and cook undisturbed for 10-12 minutes, allowing the fruit to soften and release juices.
- Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar: Remove the lid, pour in ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, stir to combine, then reduce heat to medium. Continue sautéing occasionally stirring until excess liquid evaporates and the mixture thickens.
- Let Rest: Remove the skillet from heat and let the tomato and fig mixture rest for 8-10 minutes to cool slightly and thicken further.
- Assemble Burrata: Place the burrata cheese on top of the tomato and fig mixture in the skillet. Garnish with coarsely chopped fresh basil and sprinkle with additional kosher salt to taste.
- Serve: Present the warm burrata and fruit mixture with toasted baguette slices or your preferred dipping bread for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little more high-quality olive oil over the burrata before serving.
- Use fresh figs instead of dried if available for a juicier texture and sweeter note.
- To toast the baguette, brush slices lightly with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp, about 8-10 minutes.
- This appetizer is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with fresh oregano or parsley for a different herbal aroma.
Keywords: burrata appetizer, tomato fig topping, easy Italian appetizer, cheese dip, bruschetta topping
