The moment summer arrives, I find myself craving fresh, vibrant flavors that capture the season’s essence. Picture this: a sun-drenched picnic, laughter filling the air, and a glorious plate of Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil stealing the spotlight. This delightful appetizer features creamy burrata draped in a luscious combination of jammy balsamic strawberries and bright, marinated fresh strawberries. The sweet yet tangy burst of flavor is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for gatherings like the Fourth of July or a backyard BBQ.
With only 25 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tantalizing dish that feels both elegant and approachable. It’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce and impress guests, all while simplifying your cooking routine. So, let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience, ensuring your summer meals are nothing short of extraordinary.
Why choose Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil?
Freshness: This dish celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer, showcasing ripe strawberries and aromatic basil.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The contrast of colors makes it a show-stopping centerpiece for your table.
Quick Prep Time: In just 25 minutes, you can create a gourmet appetizer without the stress!
Versatile Pairing: Delightful on its own or served with toasted bread, it suits any occasion, whether a picnic or a formal dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its combination of creamy and tangy elements guarantees that guests will be talking about it long after the meal!
Enhance your dining experience even further with variations in ingredients, and don’t forget to check out my recipe for toasted ciabatta to make the perfect accompaniment.
Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil Ingredients
For the Burrata and Strawberries
- Burrata Cheese – A creamy base that adds richness; if unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute.
- Strawberries – The star of the dish; make sure they are ripe for optimal sweetness.
- Balsamic Vinegar – This adds a tangy depth; using high-quality balsamic enhances the flavor significantly.
- Honey – A natural sweetener for the balsamic strawberries; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.
- Red Pepper Flakes – For a hint of spice; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder taste or swap with black pepper.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; sea salt is a fine alternative.
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the fresh strawberries; lime juice can replace it for a different citrus flavor.
- Fresh Basil – This aromatic herb brings a fresh note; mint can be an interesting replacement for a new twist.
- Olive Oil – Drizzle it for richness; opt for a flavored variety for a unique depth of flavor.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Use as a finishing touch for a burst of flavor; regular salt can substitute if needed.
- Toasted Bread – Perfect for serving alongside; any crusty bread, like ciabatta, complements the dish beautifully.
How to Make Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil
-
Prepare Balsamic Strawberries: In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Thicken Mixture: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Once thickened, cool for 10 minutes to preserve the delightful texture.
-
Marinate Fresh Strawberries: In a bowl, mix the remaining sliced strawberries with honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss gently and let marinate for 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to shine.
-
Assemble Dish: Tear burrata into pieces on a large plate, creating a lovely, textured display. Spoon the balsamic strawberries and marinated fresh strawberries over the burrata, letting it soak in those juicy goodness.
-
Finish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and add optional red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. Serve this masterpiece with toasted bread for delightful contrasts.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil are an excellent choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the balsamic strawberries up to 3 days in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their luscious texture. The fresh marinated strawberries can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, tear the burrata and assemble the dish, spooning the strawberries over it. This allows you to create a stunning appetizer effortlessly while saving valuable time on busy weeknights, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this vibrant summer appetizer.
-
Toasted Ciabatta: Perfect for scooping up the creamy burrata and sweet strawberries, adding a satisfying crunch. Its rustic texture complements the dish beautifully.
-
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the fruity notes, making each bite refreshingly delightful on warm days.
-
Grilled Veggies: Charred zucchini and bell peppers provide a smoky contrast that balances the dish’s sweetness. Serve alongside for a colorful medley.
-
Mixed Greens Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the burrata, creating a harmonious balance.
-
Prosciutto: Thin, salty slices of prosciutto make for a perfect contrast with the sweet strawberries, enhancing the flavor profile while adding a touch of sophistication.
-
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a palate-cleansing lemon sorbet complements the dish’s flavors, offering a refreshing finish to your meal.
These pairings create a full summer experience, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor and joy!
Expert Tips for Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil
- Select Ripe Strawberries: Choose strawberries that are firm but slightly soft to the touch for the sweetest flavor; this enhances the entire dish.
- Quality Balsamic Matters: Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar for the jammy strawberries, as this elevates the flavor profile significantly.
- Temperature Control: Allow balsamic strawberries to cool before combining with burrata, preventing the cheese from melting excessively and preserving its texture.
- Extra Olive Oil Drizzle: Just before serving, add another drizzle of olive oil to enhance richness and flavor, making the dish even more decadent.
- Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to swap basil for fresh mint or other herbs, allowing for a unique twist on this classic dish!
How to Store and Freeze Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to maintain freshness; however, it’s best enjoyed right away for optimal flavor.
- Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as freezing may alter the texture of the burrata and strawberries, diminishing their quality upon thawing.
- Reheating: If you happen to have balsamic strawberries left, you can gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, but remember that the burrata is best served fresh!
- Serving Tip: When ready to enjoy leftovers, assemble the dish just before serving to keep the burrata creamy and the strawberries vibrant.
Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries Variations
Dive into delightful twists on this stunning dish that let your creativity shine.
-
Mozzarella Swap: Replace burrata with fresh mozzarella for a firmer texture, still creamy but with a different mouthfeel. The result is equally delicious and a bit more portable!
-
Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful color and new flavor profiles. This adds depth and puts a twist on the original recipe, creating a luscious symphony of tastes.
-
Herb Infusion: Substitute basil with fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing twist. Each herb brings its unique flair, perfect for experimenting and finding your favorite combination.
-
Spicy Kick: Add minced fresh jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for an exciting heat level. This simple tweak elevates the dish to a punchy appetizer that guests will adore!
-
Citrus Zest: Garnish with orange or grapefruit zest instead of lemon for a fruity surprise. The citrus brightness adds a lovely zing, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
-
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture. This nutty addition not only enhances the dish’s crunch factor but also provides a satisfying surprise with each bite!
-
Plant-Based Option: For a vegan twist, use cashew cheese in place of burrata and maple syrup for the balsamic strawberries. This adaptation keeps all the delightful flavors while making it entirely plant-based!
-
Savory Touch: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for an extra burst of flavor and elegance. The thicker consistency beautifully complements the creamy cheese and fruity strawberries, bringing all the elements together harmoniously.
Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red with a slight sheen. They should be firm but give a little when gently squeezed, indicating ripeness. Avoid berries with dark spots or mold, as these are signs they may be overripe.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very well! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This ensures the flavors remain fresh. However, for the best experience, I recommend enjoying it right away as the burrata’s creaminess is heavenly when fresh!
Can I freeze the burrata and strawberries?
Not recommended! Freezing this dish can alter the texture of both the burrata and the strawberries, which would diminish their quality upon thawing. If you have extra balsamic strawberries, you could freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that the burrata is best enjoyed fresh!
What if my balsamic mixture doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If your mixture isn’t thickening, try increasing the heat slightly and cook it for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Be patient; the balsamic and strawberries need time to meld and form that delicious jam-like consistency you desire!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the burrata with a vegan cheese option, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness. Just adjust according to your taste preferences, and you’ll have a delightful plant-based version of Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil!
Is there an alternative herb if I don’t like basil?
Of course! If basil isn’t your favorite, fresh mint makes an excellent substitute. It adds a refreshing twist that complements the strawberries beautifully, giving your dish an exciting new flavor profile while still keeping that vibrant summer essence.
Burrata with Balsamic Strawberries & Basil for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Once thickened, cool for 10 minutes to preserve the delightful texture.
- In a bowl, mix the remaining sliced strawberries with honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss gently and let marinate for 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to shine.
- Tear burrata into pieces on a large plate, creating a lovely, textured display. Spoon the balsamic strawberries and marinated fresh strawberries over the burrata, letting it soak in those juicy goodness.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and add optional red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. Serve this masterpiece with toasted bread for delightful contrasts.