Tomatoes with Burrata & Balsamic

This roasted tomato and burrata dish transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that never fails to impress guests at my dinner parties. The combination of sweet roasted tomatoes with creamy burrata and tangy balsamic reduction creates an irresistible medley of flavors that's perfect for any occasion.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick starter for unexpected guests. They raved about it so much that it's now my go-to entertaining dish when I want something that looks fancy but requires little actual work.

Ingredients

• Grape tomatoes: small sweet tomatoes that roast beautifully and burst with concentrated flavor
• Garlic cloves: adds depth and aromatic flavor as it roasts and softens with the tomatoes
• Olive oil: use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor
• Dried oregano: complements the tomatoes with its earthy Mediterranean flavor
• Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors and helps draw moisture from the tomatoes
• Burrata cheese: the star of the dish with its creamy center that melts into the warm tomatoes
• Balsamic vinegar: reduces to a sweet syrupy glaze that balances the richness of the cheese
• Fresh basil: adds bright color and fresh herbaceous notes
• French baguette: the perfect vehicle for scooping up the delicious mixture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for roasting tomatoes as it allows them to soften and slightly caramelize without burning. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before adding the tomatoes.

Prepare the Tomato Mixture:

In a small baking dish combine the grape tomatoes with thinly sliced garlic cloves. Add the dried oregano and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Gently toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Spread them out in a single layer for even roasting.

Roast the Tomatoes:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 30 minutes. During this time the tomatoes will soften burst slightly and release their sweet juices. The garlic will become tender and mellow and the oregano will infuse the oil with its flavor.

Make the Balsamic Reduction:

While the tomatoes are roasting pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Place over medium high heat and bring to a simmer. Once simmering reduce the heat to low and allow to gently bubble for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The vinegar is ready when it has reduced by about half and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Assemble the Dish:

Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven when they are soft and slightly caramelized. Place the burrata cheese on top of the hot tomatoes. The residual heat will slightly warm and soften the cheese making it even creamier.

Finish and Serve:

Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the cheese and tomatoes. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with sliced French baguette for scooping up the delicious mixture.

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The burrata is truly the magical element in this recipe. I once made this with regular mozzarella when I couldn't find burrata and while still delicious it lacked that luxurious creamy center that makes burrata so special. There's something about watching the cream spill out and mingle with the sweet tomato juices and balsamic that makes this dish extraordinary.

Make Ahead Options

This dish can be partially prepared in advance which makes it perfect for entertaining. You can roast the tomatoes up to a day ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. The balsamic reduction can also be made in advance and kept in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. When ready to serve simply reheat the tomatoes in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm then continue with the recipe. This allows you to spend more time with your guests instead of in the kitchen.

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Seasonal Variations

While grape tomatoes are available year round this dish truly shines in summer when tomatoes are at their peak. During tomato season try using a variety of heirloom cherry tomatoes in different colors for a stunning presentation. In winter when tomatoes may lack flavor roasting them becomes even more important as it concentrates their sweetness. You can also add different herbs based on the season rosemary in winter basil in summer and thyme works beautifully year round.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish works in multiple settings. Serve it as an elegant appetizer before a pasta dinner or alongside other Mediterranean inspired small plates for a tapas style meal. It also makes a light lunch when paired with a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal pair it with grilled chicken or a hearty soup. The leftover tomato oil that remains in the baking dish is liquid gold use it for dipping bread or toss it with pasta for a quick meal the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?

Yes! The balsamic reduction can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If it thickens too much, gently warm it or add a few drops of water to thin it out.

→ What can I substitute for burrata cheese?

If burrata isn't available, fresh mozzarella makes an excellent substitute. For a different flavor profile, try ricotta or goat cheese. Each option provides a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the roasted tomatoes.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture of the burrata will change, but the flavors will still be delicious. Gently reheat the tomatoes before serving again.

→ Can I use different types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes work perfectly, or you can use larger tomatoes cut into chunks. Roma or heirloom varieties add wonderful flavor, though roasting times may vary depending on the size and water content.

→ What herbs can I use instead of oregano?

Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning blend all work beautifully with roasted tomatoes. You can also add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or fresh herbs like oregano or thyme before serving.

→ Can I serve this dish cold?

While traditionally served warm with the burrata melting slightly over the hot tomatoes, this dish can be enjoyed at room temperature. For a summer variation, try roasting the tomatoes ahead of time and assembling just before serving.