Burrata Bruschetta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil Pesto

Delight your taste buds with the creamy goodness of burrata paired perfectly with the juicy freshness of heirloom tomatoes, atop a crisp slice of bruschetta. Topped with homemade basil pesto, this Burrata Bruschetta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil Pesto recipe is the perfect appetizer for any event: whether it’s a family gathering, a summer picnic, or a sophisticated dinner party.

Ingredients

For the best results, it’s important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for your bruschetta. This will elevate the flavors and ensure that your dish is as delicious as possible.

Bruschetta:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, halved

Topping:

• 4 medium heirloom tomatoes, diced
• 200g burrata cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Basil Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to reach the desired temperature for toasting the baguette slices.
2. Prepare Bruschetta: Brush each baguette slice with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Once removed from the oven, while still warm, rub the cut side of the garlic clove over each piece.
3. Make Basil Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, add olive oil in a steady stream until well blended. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble Topping: Slice or tear the burrata cheese and distribute it evenly over the toasted baguette slices. Spoon the diced heirloom tomatoes on top of the burrata. Drizzle with basil pesto, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish and Serve: Add a leaf or two of fresh basil to each bruschetta for a pleasing presentation and an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the blend of textures and flavors.

Tips

• Tomato Selection: Heirloom tomatoes are known for their vibrant colors and sweet flavors; choose a variety of colors and sizes for a visually stunning appetizer.
• Burrata: Ensure the burrata is at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture.
• Basil Pesto Storage: Any leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for other dishes.

Nutritional Information

This burrata bruschetta is a gratifying start to any meal, offering a balance of carbohydrates from the baguette, healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, as well as vitamins and minerals from the fresh tomatoes and basil. While it is indeed indulgent due to the presence of burrata and Parmesan, a serving can be a part of a balanced diet in moderation.

Enjoy this delightful blend of Italian flavors that will surely impress your guests and tantalize your palate. Remember, the freshest ingredients will make your Burrata Bruschetta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil Pesto the star of any dining table!