Crostini with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata
A crisp toasted base meets creamy cheese and chive-infused oil for an irresistible bite.
This dish transforms classic summer ingredients into a visually stunning and flavor-packed appetizer. Perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or simply celebrating the season’s bounty, crostini topped with blistered cherry tomatoes and burrata delivers vibrant flavors wrapped in a sophisticated presentation.
Why This Recipe Works
- Intense tomato flavor: Blistering cherry tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Indulgent texture: Creamy burrata adds luscious creaminess, elevating each bite.
- Herbal freshness: Chive oil introduces a bright, aromatic note that complements the tomatoes and cheese.
- Versatility: Easily adapted for different occasions—serve as a snack, light meal, or elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch fresh chives (about 65g)
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (such as canola)
- 2 pints heirloom cherry tomatoes (about 565g)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling and brushing
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced thinly
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, cut on a bias into 12 slices, each 1/4-inch thick
- 1 large ball burrata, torn into chunks
- Micro greens or minced chives for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chive Oil
- Chop the chives into small pieces.
- In a blender, combine chives and neutral oil; blend until finely processed and vibrant green.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to separate the solids. Reserve the green oil for drizzling.
2. Blister the Cherry Tomatoes
- Heat a skillet over medium-high and add extra-virgin olive oil.
- Add whole cherry tomatoes to the pan; leave undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to allow browning.
- Toss a few times; continue cooking until tomatoes are just starting to burst—about 3–4 minutes total.
- Switch off heat, add sliced garlic, letting residual warmth mellow the flavor.
- Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper; transfer to a bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil.
3. Toast the Crostini
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet; brush both sides with olive oil.
- Bake until golden and crisp, about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove and let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Crostini
- Spoon warm (or room temperature) blistered tomatoes onto each slice of crostini.
- Top generously with torn chunks of burrata.
- Drizzle chive oil over the top for color and flavor.
- Decorate with micro greens or additional chives if desired.
Tips for Success
- Tomato selection: Use the freshest cherry tomatoes possible—heirloom varieties add more flavor and color.
- Don’t overcook tomatoes: Aim for ‘jammy’ consistency without letting them fall apart fully.
- Burrata quality: Good-quality burrata should tear easily and have a creamy, smooth center. Store-bought options like Bel Gioioso are recommended for their consistent texture.
- Chive oil versatility: Leftover chive oil is excellent drizzled over grilled fish, chicken, or tossed through light pasta dishes.
- Serve promptly: These crostini are best served immediately after assembly to preserve crispness and contrast of textures.
Substitution and Variations
- Baguette alternatives: Replace baguette with ciabatta or rustic sourdough for different textures.
- Herb oils: Try basil or parsley oil in place of chive oil for a change in herbal note.
- Seasonal vegetables: Add roasted peppers or zucchini for additional flavor dimensions.
- Cheese options: If burrata is unavailable, use fresh mozzarella or ricotta—though burrata’s creamy center is distinctive.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange crostini on a platter garnished with extra herbs for a sophisticated appetizer.
- Serve alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé.
- Pair with light summer salads to create a complete meal.
- For brunch, offer crostini as a colorful side alongside eggs or smoked salmon.
Nutritional Information
| Component | Approximate Values (Per Crostini) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120–160 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 110mg |
What others are reading
*Values will vary based on bread thickness, oil amount, and cheese portion.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Tomatoes: Blistered tomatoes can be made one day in advance; rewarm gently before use.
- Crostini: Toast bread up to a day ahead; store airtight and crisp in the oven if needed.
- Burrata: Tear burrata just before serving for best presentation.
- Chive oil: Can be refrigerated for up to three days in a sealed container.
- Leftover assembly: Assembled crostini should be eaten promptly; bread softens if stored with tomatoes and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use standard tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: Small grape or cherry tomatoes are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, but you can use chopped heirloom tomatoes in a pinch.
Q: Is it possible to make crostini gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute with your preferred gluten-free bread, ensuring it is well-toasted.
Q: What can I add for extra flavor?
A: Try a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a dash of balsamic glaze, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe for a large party?
A: Absolutely; scale up ingredients accordingly and assemble just before serving for best results.
Q: What makes burrata different from mozzarella?
A: Burrata features a soft, creamy center encased in a delicate mozzarella shell, resulting in richer flavor and smoother texture compared to standard mozzarella.
Final Tips for Your Crostini
- Let blistered tomatoes cool to room temperature before topping crostini if serving as part of a buffet.
- Tear burrata gently for rustic presentation—avoid cutting strictly with a knife.
- Chive oil should be bright and fresh—blend and strain close to serving for maximum color.
- Feel free to personalize with micro greens, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of citrus zest.
Get Creative: Using Up Leftovers
- Toss leftover blistered tomatoes through hot pasta with a spoonful of burrata and chive oil.
- Add to grilled chicken or fish as a summery topping.
- Blend extra chive oil into vinaigrettes or drizzle over green salads.
- Crumble additional crostini toppings into an omelet or frittata.
Summary
Crostini with blistered cherry tomatoes and burrata is a celebration of peak-season produce and elegant simplicity. Each component—crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fragrant oil—blends to create an irresistible bite, perfect for parties or personal indulgence. Master this recipe and elevate your next meal or gathering with a dish that’s as simple as it is spectacular.
References
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