Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

Introduction

Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata is a fresh, vibrant dish that effortlessly combines sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes with rich, creamy burrata cheese. Infused with a medley of olive oil, garlic, and fragrant herbs, this simple yet elegant recipe celebrates the best of seasonal produce. The marinated tomatoes burst with flavor, perfectly complementing the luscious burrata for a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

The first time I made this, I was amazed by how such a simple combination of ingredients could create something so delicious. Tossing the tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh basil allowed their natural sweetness to shine, while the burrata added an irresistible creaminess. Once assembled, it looked like something straight out of a gourmet restaurant—yet it took just minutes to prepare.

What I love most about Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata is its versatility. Serve it with crusty bread for a rustic appetizer, spoon it over grilled chicken for a light yet flavorful meal, or enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Whether for a dinner party or a casual snack, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

Perfect for:

• Summer gatherings
• Elegant appetizers
• Light lunches
• Wine and cheese nights
• Italian-inspired meals

Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata Recipe

Here’s why Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Bursting with Freshness: Juicy cherry tomatoes soak up the rich, garlicky marinade.
• Creamy and Decadent: The luscious burrata adds a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
• Simple Yet Elegant: A gourmet-quality dish that comes together effortlessly.
• Customizable Flavors: Add different herbs, spices, or even a touch of spice for a personal twist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marination Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, Healthy Fats, Protein

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or oregano
• 1 large burrata ball (or two smaller ones)
• Flaky sea salt, for finishing
• Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and perfect for absorbing marinade flavors.
• Burrata Cheese: A soft, creamy cheese with a delicate, buttery texture.
• Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar: A classic pairing that enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil, thyme, or oregano add an aromatic depth.
• Garlic: Infuses the marinade with rich, savory notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes:

1. Slice the Tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a bowl.
2. Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Marinate the Tomatoes: Pour the marinade over the cherry tomatoes and toss well. Let sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Dish:

4. Prepare the Burrata: Place the burrata in the center of a serving plate.
5. Add the Marinated Tomatoes: Spoon the marinated cherry tomatoes around and partially over the burrata.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil, thyme, and flaky sea salt. Drizzle with extra olive oil and a final crack of black pepper.

How to Serve Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

• Classic Crostini – Spoon the marinated tomatoes and burrata onto toasted baguette slices for an easy appetizer.
• Grilled Bread Platter – Serve with thick slices of grilled sourdough or ciabatta for guests to assemble their own bites.
• Pasta Toss – Mix the marinated tomatoes and burrata into freshly cooked pasta (like spaghetti or orecchiette) for a light and flavorful meal.
• Salad Upgrade – Use the marinated tomatoes and burrata as a topping for mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, drizzling extra marinade as dressing.
• Pizza Topping – Spread the marinated tomatoes over a homemade or store-bought pizza crust, add burrata, and bake or finish with fresh basil.
• Grain Bowl – Layer the marinated tomatoes and burrata over quinoa, farro, or couscous, along with arugula and toasted nuts for a hearty salad.
• Bruschetta Bar – Set up a DIY bruschetta station with marinated tomatoes, burrata, and toppings like prosciutto, balsamic glaze, and fresh basil.
• Charcuterie Board Addition – Serve alongside cured meats, olives, roasted nuts, and crackers for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
• Eggs & Toast – Pair the marinated tomatoes and burrata with poached or scrambled eggs on toast for a delicious brunch option.
• Stuffed Avocados – Halve an avocado, remove some flesh, and fill the center with marinated cherry tomatoes and burrata for a fresh, creamy dish.

Additional Tips for Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

• Use Ripe, Sweet Cherry Tomatoes – Opt for fresh, in-season cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor. A mix of red, yellow, and heirloom varieties adds a beautiful color contrast.
• Halve the Tomatoes – Cutting the tomatoes in half allows them to absorb the marinade more effectively, enhancing their flavor.
• Let Them Marinate Longer – While 30 minutes is good, marinating the tomatoes for 2–4 hours (or even overnight) deepens the flavor. Keep them in the fridge if marinating for an extended time.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil – Since the oil is a key ingredient, choose a cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste and richness.
• Add a Splash of Balsamic or Sherry Vinegar – A small amount of balsamic vinegar, sherry vinegar, or red wine vinegar balances the sweetness of the tomatoes with a bit of acidity.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs – Basil is a classic, but try adding thyme, oregano, chives, or parsley for extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs add vibrancy to the dish.
• Season Generously – Use flaky sea salt (like Maldon) instead of regular table salt for better texture and flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes or crushed Calabrian chilies adds a nice heat contrast.
• Serve at Room Temperature – Allow the burrata and marinated tomatoes to come to room temperature before serving to maximize their flavor. Cold burrata can be less creamy and flavorful.
• Drizzle with Honey – A small drizzle of honey or hot honey over the burrata adds a hint of sweetness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes and richness of the cheese.
• Pair with Grilled Bread – Serve with toasted sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette to soak up the flavorful marinade and creamy burrata. Rubbing the warm bread with a clove of garlic before serving adds even more depth.

Recipe Variations for Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

1. Caprese Style: Add fresh mozzarella and drizzle with pesto.
2. Spicy Twist: Mix in finely chopped Calabrian chilies for heat.
3. Roasted Tomatoes: Roast the cherry tomatoes for deeper sweetness before marinating.
4. Citrus Infused: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
5. Mediterranean Version: Toss in olives and crumbled feta instead of burrata.
6. Truffle Touch: Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet upgrade.
7. Balsamic Glaze Finish: Reduce balsamic vinegar for a thick, syrupy drizzle.
8. Nutty Addition: Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or almonds for crunch.
9. Avocado Pairing: Add sliced avocado for a creamy contrast.
10. Grilled Bread: Rub toasted bread with garlic and drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as tomatoes become mushy and burrata loses its texture when frozen.

Special Equipment for Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

• Mixing Bowls
• Sharp Knife
• Serving Platter
• Bread Knife (for crusty bread)

FAQ for Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata

1. Can I use heirloom tomatoes? Yes! Chop heirloom tomatoes into bite-sized pieces for a similar effect.
2. Can I prepare the tomatoes ahead of time? Yes, marinate them for up to 24 hours in the fridge for even more flavor.
3. Is there a dairy-free option? Substitute burrata with avocado or dairy-free cheese alternatives.
4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar? Use red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice instead.
5. How do I know if burrata is fresh? Fresh burrata should be soft, creamy, and slightly firm on the outside.

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Conclusion

Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata is a simple yet elegant dish that lets fresh ingredients shine. Bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, these juicy tomatoes are infused with a delicious marinade and paired with rich, creamy burrata for the ultimate contrast in textures. Whether served as an appetizer, a light meal, or a side dish, this recipe is effortlessly impressive and perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful juices, and pair it with a glass of wine for a truly delightful dining experience. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

I can’t wait to see your take on Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Burrata! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you serve it. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!