Fresh Tomato and Burrata Bruschettas are a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy baguette, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy burrata cheese, and a tangy balsamic glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile. This dish is simple yet elegant, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 large baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the baguette slices)
- 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup (25 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 8 ounces (225 g) burrata cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- Brush each slice with olive oil on both sides and season with a little salt if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix gently.
- Place a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture on each toasted baguette slice.
- Tear or cut the burrata into small pieces and place on top of the tomato mixture.
- Drizzle each bruschetta with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately while the bread is still crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at a dinner party or a casual get-together.
- Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or a light red wine for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy as a light lunch or snack on a warm day.
Cooking Tips:
- Use the freshest tomatoes and basil available for the best flavor.
- For extra flavor, you can rub a cut garlic clove on the toasted baguette slices before adding the toppings.
- If burrata cheese is not available, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
Storing Recommendations:
- It’s best to assemble the bruschettas just before serving to keep the bread crispy. However, you can prepare the tomato-basil mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- If you have leftover bruschettas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Note that the bread may become soggy.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g
FAQs:
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough if a baguette is not available.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like diced avocado, roasted red peppers, or olives for extra flavor.
What is burrata cheese?
Burrata is an Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it a soft, creamy texture.
Summary:
- Total Calories: 150 per serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 8