:: Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer ::
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care, as the calendar continues to get filled by things here and there. Are you feeling a bit like me? Hoping to take in these small moments to enjoy what the season is all about, but have been asked to bring an appetizer to an event. This Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer is a win win for all. It’s simple, tasty, and doesn’t require too much prep time or cook time. It really is that easy.
I have to be honest with you, I more often than not love an appetizer that requires multiple steps and takes a bit of time to prepare. I feel those are the dishes that taste the best and look the best on a platter, but that is entirely the wrong approach when it comes to the holidays. The company we keep and the family we see is what should require the most of our time. Simple is best right?!? Good flavors and a nice glass of wine paired with a lovely dish really can make an evening worth the run around.
I first had burrata at one of my favorite wine and cheese shops, The Cellar. A small shop filled with tasty cheeses, small dishes, and beautiful bottles of wine to sip. I had previously steered away from burrata as it was the unknown, a softer and creamier version of a traditional mozarrella. It is easily spreadable upon toast, crackers, or enjoyed with stone fruits. I have experienced this little cheese in many ways, but my favorite is combined with roasted tomatoes, a dash of balsamic vinegar, and a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil. Simple as that!
The next time you need to think of an appetizer to prepare, free up your time with this easy recipe. I am going to try to keep it short and simple this holiday season. My kids are only young once, by husband is only home so often, and the friends company I get to enjoy are too few and far between. Cheers to this holiday season…take a moment to enjoy!
Burrata and Roasted Tomato Appetizer
Ingredients
- 1 crate of cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 ball of burrata cheese {I used the Trader Joe's brand}
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- salt and red chili pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Slice clean tomatoes in halves.
- Place the tomatoes on a cookie sheet.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, and salt & chili pepper to taste.
- Place the cookie sheet into the oven for 15-20 minutes until roasted.
- While tomatoes are cooking, drain the burrata from the water it is sitting in.
- Place the burrata cheese on a plate.
- Pull the tomatoes from the oven when done roasting and let them sit for a few minutes to cool.
- Spoon tomatoes on top of burrata cheese.
- Drizzle the top of the cheese with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
- Serve with french baguette or crackers.