These easy burrata balls make for a perfect appetizer! Creamy burrata cheese wrapped in delicious flavors is sure to please everyone. Just think of them as little cheese clouds!
Pair them with some fresh tomatoes and basil for that extra zing. Honestly, I could snack on these all day—and I wouldn’t mind sharing, just this once! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Burrata Cheese: The star of this recipe! Fresh burrata is creamy and rich. If you can’t find burrata, try using fresh mozzarella as an alternative, though it won’t have the same creamy center.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. If you prefer, you can substitute grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes. Just be sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats the flavor of fresh basil. If you’re out of basil, you can use fresh parsley for a different taste, but it won’t have the same aromatic profile.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds richness. Other oils, like avocado oil, may work, but olive oil offers the best flavor. I always keep a high-quality bottle on hand!
How Do I Assemble the Burrata Balls for the Best Flavor?
Assembling your burrata balls is simple but important for the best taste. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by carefully placing your burrata balls on a large serving platter. Make sure there’s enough space around each ball for other ingredients.
- Next, scatter your halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves around the burrata. This not only looks nice but also creates a fresh flavor combination.
- Drizzle your extra virgin olive oil generously over the entire dish, ensuring the burrata and tomatoes get that lovely richness.
- If you’re opting for balsamic glaze, add it after the olive oil for a nice contrast of flavors.
- Finally, season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper before serving—just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering them!
Serve it up with crackers or toasted baguette slices to let everyone scoop out that creamy goodness of the burrata. Enjoy your appetizer!
Easy Burrata Balls Recipe for Appetizers
Ingredients:
- 8 oz burrata cheese (fresh burrata ball or pre-packaged)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow for color)
- Fresh basil leaves, about 8-10
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic glaze or reduction (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and simple, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you want a tasty snack without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burrata:
Carefully remove the burrata cheese from its package. If you have a large piece, gently shape it into smaller balls. If you’ve got mini burrata balls, you can use them as-is for individual servings.
2. Arrange on Plate:
Place the burrata balls on a beautiful serving plate. Make sure there is enough space around each ball for the tomatoes and basil.
3. Add Tomatoes and Basil:
Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves around the burrata. The colorful tomatoes and vibrant basil not only taste good but also make your platter look amazing!
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the burrata, tomatoes, and basil. This adds a wonderful richness to the dish.
5. Optional Balsamic Glaze:
If you are using balsamic glaze, drizzle a small amount over the entire dish to add a bit of sweetness and tang—totally optional, but definitely delicious!
6. Season:
Lightly season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This brings out all the flavors beautifully.
7. Serve:
Serve your burrata balls immediately with crackers or toasted baguette slices. These are perfect for scooping up the creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes!
Enjoy this simple and elegant appetizer that shines with the creamy texture of burrata cheese and the refreshing taste of tomatoes and basil. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Easy Burrata Balls Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute. However, keep in mind that burrata’s creamy center gives a unique texture and flavor that mozzarella won’t replicate.
How Can I Customize the Flavors?
You can add more flavor by including ingredients like crushed garlic, chopped olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. Fresh herbs like mint or arugula can also add a delightful twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The burrata may lose some creaminess, but you can revive it with a little drizzle of olive oil when serving again.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
To maintain freshness, it’s best to prepare this dish right before serving. However, you can halve the tomatoes and prepare the olive oil and balsamic glaze in advance. Assemble everything just before serving for optimal taste!
