Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, from cozy dinner parties to casual get-togethers. The combination of sweet, roasted tomatoes and creamy burrata creates a rich and flavorful experience that will impress your guests. This recipe highlights the beauty of simplicity while offering endless versatility in serving options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 18 minutes from start to finish, this dish is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for entertaining.
• Flavor Explosion: The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, complemented by aromatic garlic and fresh herbs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, you can pair it with grilled bread, crackers, or even as a topping for salads.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tomatoes and herbs provides vibrant flavors that elevate any meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The combination of colorful tomatoes and creamy burrata makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting the tomatoes evenly, ensuring they caramelize beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Knife: Essential for chopping herbs and smashing garlic efficiently.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe and clean space to prepare all your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Tomatoes

• About 4 cups grape or cherry tomatoes (around 2 pints)
• 2 cloves of garlic, smashed and left in their skin
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or Italian mix)
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• A pinch of salt
• Ground black pepper

For Serving

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (or your choice of fresh herbs)
• 8 ounces of burrata cheese (let it reach room temperature) or goat cheese
• Grilled bread, crackers, crisps, or toasted crostini

How to Make Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your tomatoes roast evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

In a mixing bowl, combine the grape or cherry tomatoes with smashed garlic cloves. Add dried herbs, chili flakes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are well coated.

Step 3: Roast the Tomatoes

Spread the seasoned tomatoes onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes until they are blistered and juicy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Once roasted, remove the tomatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly before transferring them to a serving platter. Tear open the burrata cheese and place it in the center of the warm tomatoes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with grilled bread or crackers on the side. Enjoy this delightful combination as an appetizer or side dish!

How to Serve Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

Juicy roasted tomatoes with burrata is not just a dish; it’s an experience. These delightful tomatoes pair beautifully with various accompaniments, making them perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

On Grilled Bread

• Toast slices of rustic bread until golden brown. Drizzle with olive oil and top with the roasted tomatoes and creamy burrata for a satisfying appetizer.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your roasted tomatoes with fresh basil or parsley to enhance the flavor profile and add a pop of color.

As a Salad Component

• Toss the juicy roasted tomatoes with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad that complements the creaminess of the burrata.

Accompanied by Crackers or Crisps

• Serve the dish alongside an assortment of crackers or crisps. This combination adds texture and makes for an easy-to-serve appetizer.

How to Perfect Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

Perfecting juicy roasted tomatoes is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose ripe tomatoes – Select grape or cherry tomatoes that are vibrant and slightly soft to guarantee maximum juiciness.
• Preheat your oven – An adequately heated oven ensures even roasting, resulting in tender, flavorful tomatoes.
• Season generously – Don’t skimp on herbs, salt, and pepper; they enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Let the burrata warm up – Allowing burrata to reach room temperature before serving enhances its creamy texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

Pairing side dishes with juicy roasted tomatoes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread complements the softness of burrata beautifully.
2. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor that goes well with roasted flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables provide additional textures and flavors that meld nicely with this dish.
5. Pasta Primavera – A colorful pasta primavera adds heartiness while letting the roasted tomatoes shine as a component.
6. Risotto – Creamy risotto can serve as a luxurious side that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of roasted tomatoes and burrata.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When roasting, make sure not to overcrowd the tomatoes. This can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Use a larger baking sheet if necessary.
• Skipping the Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs add depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this step; choose your favorites like rosemary or thyme for the best taste.
• Ignoring the Cheese Temperature: Burrata should be at room temperature for optimal creaminess. Take it out of the refrigerator ahead of time to let it warm up.
• Not Seasoning Properly: A pinch of salt and ground black pepper can elevate your dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly for a balanced flavor.
• Using Cold Bread: If serving with bread, ensure it’s toasted or grilled for a crunchy texture that complements the soft burrata and juicy tomatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

• It’s best not to freeze burrata, but you can freeze roasted tomatoes.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and use within 2 months.

Reheating Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tomatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata?

Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata pairs wonderfully with grilled bread, crackers, or toasted crostini. You can also enjoy it alongside fresh salads or as part of a cheese platter.

Can I use other types of cheese besides burrata?

Absolutely! If you can’t find burrata, goat cheese makes a great alternative. It still provides that creamy texture you’ll love.

How long do Juicy Roasted Tomatoes last?

Stored properly in the fridge, they will last about three days. For best quality, consume them within this timeframe.

Can I customize the herbs used in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use any herbs you enjoy. Basil, oregano, and thyme all work beautifully with roasted tomatoes and burrata.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Roasted Tomatoes with Burrata is a delightful dish that showcases fresh ingredients beautifully. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or serving it with various accompaniments. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or casual dinners—give it a try!