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This burrata dip combines creamy cheese with savory toppings for an elegant appetizer that always impresses guests. The contrast between the rich, milky burrata and the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil creates a perfect balance that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.
I first made this burrata dip for a last-minute dinner party when I needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The looks on my guests' faces when they dipped bread into that creamy center convinced me this would become my signature appetizer.
Ingredients
- 3-4 large burrata balls: these fresh Italian cheese bundles have a solid mozzarella exterior with a creamy stracciatella center
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: use the highest quality you can find as it provides foundation flavor
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: adds sweet tanginess that balances the rich cheese
- 3 garlic cloves: thinly slice these for aromatic flavor without overpowering
- Red pepper flakes: adjust according to your heat preference
- Salt and black pepper: enhances all other flavors
- 3 tablespoons pesto: provides herbal notes and beautiful color contrast
- 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes: concentrated flavor that brightens the dish
- 1/4 cup pine nuts: adds essential crunch and nutty flavor
- 1/4 cup fresh basil: brightens the dish with color and fresh flavor
- Additional balsamic glaze for topping: creates beautiful presentation
- Crusty bread or crostini: the perfect vehicle for enjoying this dip
How To Make Burrata Dip
- Toast the Pine Nuts:
- Place pine nuts in a medium skillet over medium heat. Watch carefully as they toast, stirring frequently for about 3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Their nutty aroma will tell you when they're done. Remove immediately to prevent burning.
- Create the Flavor Base:
- In a large shallow serving dish, pour the olive oil to create a foundation. Drizzle balsamic glaze in a circular pattern across the oil. Add thinly sliced garlic pieces throughout the dish, then sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prepare the Burrata:
- Take each burrata ball and gently cut the top, allowing some of the creamy stracciatella filling to ooze out. This creates an inviting appearance that encourages dipping. Carefully arrange the burrata balls on top of the prepared oil mixture.
- Add the Toppings:
- Spoon pesto in small dollops around the burrata. Scatter the sun dried tomatoes evenly across the dish. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts around and between the cheese. Distribute fresh basil for color and aroma. Finish with an artistic drizzle of balsamic glaze and a final crack of black pepper.
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The toasted pine nuts are possibly my favorite element in this recipe. I discovered their importance accidentally when I forgot to add them once, and the dish lacked that perfect textural contrast. Now I keep extra toasted pine nuts on hand to sprinkle on just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This burrata dip truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. While crusty bread is traditional, I've found that garlic crostini adds another dimension of flavor. For a more substantial spread, surround the dip with antipasto elements like olives, roasted peppers, and thinly sliced prosciutto.
Make It Ahead
For entertaining, you can prepare most components in advance. Toast the pine nuts and store in an airtight container. Prepare the oil mixture in your serving dish and refrigerate. About 30 minutes before serving, bring everything to room temperature, then add the burrata and toppings just before guests arrive.
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Ingredient Substitutions
While traditional burrata creates the most impressive presentation, you can adapt this recipe based on what's available. Fresh mozzarella works in a pinch, though you'll lose the creamy center. No sun dried tomatoes? Try roasted cherry tomatoes or a fresh tomato bruschetta mixture. Walnuts can substitute for pine nuts, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread pairs best with burrata?
Crusty bread, crostini, or garlic bread work wonderfully as they soak up the flavors of the creamy burrata and toppings.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While some components like toasted pine nuts or sliced ingredients can be prepped ahead, burrata is best served fresh for optimal creaminess and texture.
- → What can I use instead of sun dried tomatoes?
Fresh cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or marinated artichokes make excellent substitutes that complement the burrata.
- → Is there a gluten-free serving option?
You can pair this dish with gluten-free crackers, nut-based crisps, or sliced fresh vegetables like cucumber or bell pepper.
- → How can I toast pine nuts effectively?
Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. It takes about 2-3 minutes for them to become golden and fragrant.