Burrata is the ultimate indulgence for cheese lovers. It’s a soft, creamy Italian cheese that has a unique texture and flavor. The center of the cheese is made from mozzarella curd and cream, while the outer layer is a thin sheet of fresh mozzarella.
The combination creates an incredibly rich and delicious dish that pairs well with many different accompaniments. Here are 11 of my favorite pairings for this luxurious cheese!
What To Eat With Burrata?
Burrata, a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, is a versatile ingredient that can be served in many ways. Traditionally, burrata is served with fresh bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, and drizzled with high-quality olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Other popular accompaniments include fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto. Burrata can also be used as a topping for salads, pizza, or pasta dishes.
1. Grilled Bread or Crostini
Grilled bread or crostini is one of the perfect vehicles for transporting a scoop of creamy Burrata to your awaiting palate! When preparing, start with quality rustic Italian-style bread sliced into thin rounds.
Brush each round lightly with a bit of olive oil, then place on the grill or under your broiler for a couple of minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
Enjoying your creation requires quickly arranging the crostini onto a platter, spooning heaping dollops of Burrata atop each round, and then drizzling with good quality extra virgin olive oil and flaked sea salt to finish.
Try adding freshly cracked pepper as well to really get the most out of your toast experience. Serve promptly for best results.
2. Roasted or Grilled Vegetables
Roasting and grilling are great ways to bring out the flavor of any type of vegetable, making them great building blocks for a dish featuring burrata.
For the former, preheat the oven to 350 degrees, toss the chopped or sliced veggies in olive oil, salt and pepper, and spread them onto a baking sheet. Roast for about 10-20 minutes or until golden brown; if preferred, add some herbs like rosemary, thyme or oregano for flavor.
For the latter, either preheat an indoor grill pan over high heat or fire up an outdoor grill. Toss vegetables with oil, salt and pepper and place onto the hot surface of your choice. Grill each side until they produce distinct char marks while still maintaining their internal moisture; this may take anywhere from 4-10 minutes.
Pair your roasted/grilled vegetables with burrata – either as a salad where you cube the cheese atop your produce or served as crostini topped with crumbled pieces – for an appetizing plate.
3. Prosciutto or Other Cured Meats
Adding a salty and savory contrast to the creamy cheese, these aged meats make an amazing flavor pairing. In addition to their complementary flavors, they offer some fun texture variations.
It’s best to think of cured meats as an enhancer of existing flavors in the meal – so choose pairings based on compatible notes, colors and aromas that can elevate your plate.
Try topping salads or flatbreads with sliced prosciutto for added crunch and savory goodness. Accompany it with some freshly torn basil leaves if desired, or serve a range of colorful vegetables like roasted peppers or olives on the side.
All in all, cured meats add a depth of flavor to any burrata-based dish that cannot be matched by any other ingredient.
4. Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze
One of the most popular condiments used to accompany burrata is balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze. The sweet and tangy taste of balsamic perfectly complements the creaminess of the cheese. Balsamic vinegar or glaze can be drizzled directly over the cheese, or used as a marinade for meats and vegetables.
To make the perfect pairing, drizzle a few teaspoons of good-quality balsamic vinegar over the burrata, perhaps combined with a little olive oil. You can also use ready-made balsamic glaze to cut down on time spent in preparation.
This can be used along with other accompaniments such as heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil leaves and cracked black pepper to create an easy yet delicious appetizer or light lunch dish. For added flavor, try adding garlic confit for sweetness or a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Whether you take the time to make your own balsamic vinegar or simply opt for store-bought glaze, its tart sweetness will perfectly balance out the richness burrata adds to any meal – delizioso!
5. Pesto or Other Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs are an easy and flavorful way to elevate ordinary burrata toast. From basil, parsley, mint and oregano, to thyme, rosemary and chives – the possibilities are endless!
A simple pesto can be quickly whipped up in a food processor by combining the herbs of your choice with some olive oil, toasted nuts and Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you can just use the leaves without blending to make a vibrant green topping.
Spread the pesto on top of some crusty bread and top with crumbled burrata. To brighten up your dish, try adding some lemon zest and freshly cracked black pepper. Finish it off with a drizzle of olive oil, and you’ve got yourself a delicious appetizer or light lunch.
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding charred vegetables or mushrooms to the mix. The char will bring out the smokiness in the herbs, and balance out the creaminess of the cheese perfectly.
6. Olive Oil
Whether it’s extra-virgin, cold-pressed or infused with herbs and spices – olive oil is a great accompaniment for any burrata dish.
The key to getting the perfect flavor is to use a good-quality oil that has a nice balance of fruity and peppery notes. Sprinkle a few drops of it over the cheese, or mix it with freshly cracked black pepper and lemon juice for a simple dressing.
Olive oil can also be used to add a hint of warmth to your dish. Try grilling or roasting vegetables and drizzling them with olive oil just before serving. This will add a delicious smokiness to the burrata, making it even more irresistible.
7. Roasted Garlic
Creamy burrata pairs wonderfully with roasted garlic. The sweet and mellow flavor of the garlic complements the richness of the cheese perfectly and adds a depth of flavor that cannot be matched by any other ingredient.
To make this pairing, simply roast the garlic in the oven until it is soft and golden brown. Then, spread it over a piece of crusty bread and top it with crumbled burrata. Finish it with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper, and you’re good to go.
Roasted garlic can also be added to salads, used as a spread on sandwiches and wraps, or mixed into mashed potatoes for an extra zing. It’s such a versatile ingredient that can easily be incorporated into any burrata dish.
8. Roasted or Marinated Peppers
Peppers are one of the few ingredients that are truly versatile. They can be eaten raw, roasted, grilled, fried or marinated – and are guaranteed to add a burst of flavor and color to any dish.
For burrata, they work especially well when roasted or marinated. Roasting peppers intensifies their flavor and creates a beautiful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese.
Marinated peppers, on the other hand, bring a salty and tangy element to the dish. Simply soak them in olive oil and vinegar overnight for a quick and easy topping that will add loads of flavor.
9. Grilled Shrimp or Other Seafood
For a more substantial meal, try adding some grilled shrimp or other seafood to your burrata. The smoky flavor of the shellfish complements the richness of the cheese perfectly and adds a nice crunchy texture to the dish.
For an easy dinner, simply grill some shrimp or scallops, and arrange them on a plate with some burrata. Top it with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper, and you’re all set.
Or for a more elaborate dish, try making a seafood salad with burrata as the centerpiece. Add some tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives to the mix for a burst of flavor and color. Finish it off with a drizzle of olive oil, and you’ve got yourself a delicious seafood dish.
10. Caramelized Onions or Shallots
Caramelized onions or shallots add a hint of sweetness to any dish, and this is especially true for burrata. The mellow and slightly sweet flavor of the onions or shallots pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese and brings out its subtle flavors even more.
To make this pairing, simply caramelize the onions or shallots in butter until they are golden and slightly sweet. Then, spread them over the burrata and top them with a drizzle of olive oil, freshly cracked black pepper, and some chopped parsley.
Caramelized onions or shallots can also be served as a side dish, or used as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables. They are sure to add a wonderful flavor to any dish.
11. Pasta
Burrata pairs wonderfully with pasta. The creaminess of the cheese and the texture of the pasta make for an irresistible combination.
To make this pairing, simply toss cooked and drained pasta with some extra virgin olive oil, freshly chopped parsley, and crumbled burrata. The heat of the pasta will melt the cheese, creating a creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
This dish can be served as is, or topped with some roasted garlic, grilled shrimp, caramelized onions and/or roasted peppers. Any combination of these ingredients will make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Burrata is a delicious and versatile cheese that pairs well with many different accompaniments. From grilled bread or crostini to roasted vegetables, cured meats, balsamic vinegar or glaze, pesto and herbs, olive oil, garlic bread, seafood dishes and more – the possibilities are endless!
Whether it’s used as an appetizer on its own or incorporated into salads, pizza or pasta dishes for something truly special – Burrata can elevate any meal. With these 11 best pairings in mind, you’re sure to impress your guests every time.
