Burrata Bruschetta with Cherry Tomatoes: A Bite of Summer Bliss
If there’s one appetizer that perfectly captures the carefree indulgence of summer, it’s burrata bruschetta. Crisp crostini, golden and garlicky from the oven, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the irresistible creaminess of fresh burrata cheese—each bite is a little celebration. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, planning a picnic, or just treating yourself to a gourmet snack, this burrata bruschetta brings the sunshine in, no matter the season.
A Toast to Burrata
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about burrata—because it deserves the spotlight. At first glance, burrata looks like your typical ball of mozzarella, but appearances can be deceiving. Slice it open, and you’ll find a dreamy center of soft curds and cream. It’s a cheese that feels indulgent without being overpowering—delicate, rich, and full of fresh dairy flavor.
Burrata originates from the Puglia region of Italy and has become a star ingredient in many modern dishes. Unlike firmer cheeses, burrata doesn’t need much to shine. All it asks is to be served at the right temperature—room temp or slightly warm—for its texture and flavor to really come alive. Served too cold, and you miss the lusciousness that makes it so special.
Where to Find It
Fresh burrata is becoming easier to find. Most grocery stores stock it near the gourmet or specialty cheeses in the deli section. It’s often sold submerged in water to keep it fresh and soft. Once home, store it in the fridge, but let it come to room temperature before serving.
If you’re building a charcuterie board or crafting a weekend brunch menu, adding burrata will instantly elevate the entire spread. But for now, let’s keep things simple and savor burrata in one of its most delicious forms—bruschetta.
Bruschetta: Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor
What makes this burrata bruschetta so unforgettable is its perfect balance of textures and flavors:
- Toasted crostini – crispy, golden, and brushed with garlic for that irresistible crunch
- Cherry tomatoes – sweet, juicy, and bursting with summer freshness
- Red onions – diced small to add a gentle bite without overpowering the dish
- Fresh basil – aromatic and bright, the soul of Mediterranean flavor
- Burrata cheese – creamy and luxurious, providing contrast to the crisp toast
This bruschetta doesn’t just look beautiful—it delivers a layered flavor profile in every bite. The acidity of the tomatoes, the richness of the cheese, and the crunch of toasted bread come together in perfect harmony.
Preparing the Perfect Burrata Bruschetta
Here’s how to create this stunning appetizer at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced into thin rounds
- 1–2 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups multi-colored cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1–2 balls of fresh burrata cheese (at room temperature)
Instructions:
- Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange your bread slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush each side with olive oil. Toast for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Once out of the oven, rub one side of each slice with a clove of garlic. This infuses each crostini with just the right amount of garlicky depth. - Make the Tomato Mixture:
In a bowl, toss your halved cherry tomatoes with the diced onion, chopped basil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can mingle. - Assemble the Bruschetta:
Place the toasted crostini on a serving platter. Carefully tear the burrata open and spoon generous portions of the creamy center onto each piece of toast. Spoon over the marinated tomato mixture, letting the juices run just a little over the cheese. Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if you like.
Variations and Serving Ideas
While this recipe features a mix of cherry tomatoes, you can easily customize it:
- Strawberries and balsamic make a delightful sweet-savory twist.
- Roasted peaches add a smoky, caramelized flavor perfect for late summer evenings.
- Grilled zucchini or roasted red peppers create a more savory, earthy option.
Burrata is endlessly versatile. That’s why it’s earned its place not only on toasts and crostini but also on pastas, pizzas, and even fruit salads.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about preparing and sharing food that feels both elegant and effortless. This cherry tomato burrata bruschetta embodies just that. It’s colorful, flavorful, and impressively simple—a dish that turns humble ingredients into something memorable.
So the next time you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer, remember this recipe. Toasted bread, creamy cheese, sun-kissed tomatoes, and a touch of basil—it’s the taste of summer, no matter the time of year.
