Print

Creamy Burrata with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes: Easy 15-Minute Appetizer

creamy burrata with marinated cherry tomatoes - featured image

This creamy burrata with marinated cherry tomatoes is a quick, impressive appetizer that combines cool, milky cheese with sweet, garlicky tomatoes. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for entertaining and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 300g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chiffonade
  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 (4-ounce) balls fresh burrata cheese
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Crusty bread or crostini, for serving

Instructions

  1. Halve the tomatoes. Place cherry tomatoes on a cutting board and slice each one in half. If using larger cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Warm the oil and garlic. In a small skillet or saucepan, combine olive oil, sliced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Warm over low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browning. Remove from heat and let cool for 1 minute.
  3. Marinate the tomatoes. Pour the warm oil mixture over the halved tomatoes. Add balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper, basil, and oregano. Gently toss. Let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Prepare the burrata. Remove burrata from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Drain each ball from its liquid and place on a serving platter or shallow bowl.
  5. Assemble the dish. Spoon the marinated cherry tomatoes and herby oil around the burrata (not on top). Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
  6. Serve immediately. Provide a butter knife or spreader for the burrata and plenty of crusty bread for scooping.

Notes

Don’t skip the warm oil step—it releases the garlic’s aroma. Let burrata come to room temperature for best texture. Use a serrated knife for tomatoes to avoid crushing. Spoon tomatoes around the cheese, not on top. Tomatoes can be marinated up to 4 hours in advance.

Nutrition

Keywords: burrata, cherry tomatoes, marinated tomatoes, easy appetizer, 15-minute recipe, Italian appetizer, vegetarian, gluten-free