Burrata Caprese

Perfect for summer, Burrata Caprese is a simple and delicious salad or Italian appetizer of heirloom tomatoes, basil, mozzarella Burrata and a balsamic glaze.

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I have a question for you. Why is eating out so much fun? 

For me sometimes it is just a treat to feel spoiled and not have to work. I sit down, order, enjoy and there is no clean up.

Sometimes we all just need a break from our daily routines and work. 

However, the challenge with dining out too often, the temptation to make poor choices and the possible over eating that can come with it. 

Also, it makes me crazy that I have no control over the quality of ingredients used in restaurants. 

So how can you get a break from cooking and still eat at home?

The answer, make recipes like this Burrata Caprese or Panko Crusted Salmon with Dill and Lemon that feel completely gourmet but are incredibly easy to make.

Then, if possible, save the dining out for the special occasions. 

What is Caprese?

Caprese is a very simple salad arranged on a plate or platter and is made of mozzarella, tomato slices, basil, olive oil, salt and pepper. It is an incredibly easy appetizer to make and is delicious enough to be eaten as dinner on hot summer days. 

Caprese Salad Ingredients 

• Heirloom or Vine Ripen Tomatoes 
• Teardrop Tomatoes 
• Mozzarella or Burrata 
• Basil Leaves
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper
• Balsamic Glaze

Mozzarella Burrata 

Mozzarella Burrata is a form of mozzarella that is filled with a creamy soft curd. It completely delicious and works beautifully in pasta dishes such as Penne Pomodoro with Burrata. This delicious cheese will be packaged in brine, usually in an airtight plastic container. Many bigger grocery stores carry it in their specialty cheese section. 

What do Heirloom Tomatoes taste like?

One of the most interesting elements of heirloom tomatoes, outside of their beautiful array of colors, is that they vary in taste from one tomato to another. Some are sweet while others have a balance of sweetness to acidity. Also, the texture of some heirloom tomatoes tend to be softer while others have a firmer texture. 

I personally prefer the firmer tomatoes that have a balance of sweetness to acidity. However, choosing a variety of the different colors will usually help to cover each person’s taste preferences. 

Best Tips for Making Caprese Platters

What makes a Caprese platter so attractive is not only its simplicity and beauty, but also it tastes amazing. Follow these best tips for making a Caprese Appetizer that is sure to impress. 

• Use a variety of tomatoes. Choosing different colors of heirloom tomatoes, some vine ripened and smaller teardrop tomatoes add texture, color and varying degrees of sweetness from the tomatoes. 
• Fresh basil leaves, some in bunches and some loose leaves. 
• Don’t forget the salt and pepper.
• Good quality olive oil. 
• Drizzle with some Balsamic Glaze.
• Add grilled bread or freshly cut baguette. 
• Cured Italian meats like prosciutto, capicola and salami add a fun touch.
• Fresh fruit, nuts, olives and wine makes this over the top delicious. 

More Delicious Appetizer Recipes

Bruschetta with Balsamic Reduction

Rustic Italian Grilled Polenta & Veggies

Simple White Bean Dip

Lemon Artichoke Dip

Broiled Scallops with Lemon Parmesan Panko

Marinated Grilled Shrimp 

More Italian Favorites 

Tomato Caper Pasta

Easy Weeknight Spinach Pesto Gnocchi

Italian Beef Stew

Lemon Garlic Pasta

Simple Creamy Farfalle Pasta with Spinach