Barefoot Contessa Tomatoes & Burrata

Barefoot Contessa Tomatoes & Burrata is made with fresh burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This recipe creates a simple, elegant salad that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 4.

Barefoot Contessa Tomatoes & Burrata Ingredients

• 2 (8- to 10-ounce) balls of fresh burrata cheese
• 16 to 20 (2-inch diameter) heirloom tomatoes
• Good olive oil
• Aged balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 20 fresh basil leaves, julienned
• Fleur de sel or sea salt
• Garlic Toasts (see recipe)

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Tomatoes & Burrata

1. Prepare the Burrata: Cut each ball of burrata in half crosswise and place one half, cut side down, on each of 4 salad plates.
2. Add Tomatoes: Halve the tomatoes through the stem end and arrange them around the burrata on each plate.
3. Season and Garnish: Drizzle generously with olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Add Basil and Serve: Scatter julienned basil leaves over each plate. Sprinkle with fleur de sel and serve with Garlic Toasts.

Recipe Tips

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: Heirloom varieties offer the best flavor and color contrast.
• Choose High-Quality Balsamic: Aged balsamic adds rich, sweet acidity that elevates the dish.
• Slice Burrata Carefully: Cut gently to preserve the creamy center.
• Chill Basil Properly: Store cleaned basil in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel.
• Make Toasts Ahead: Garlic Toasts can be prepared a day in advance for easy serving.

What To Serve With Tomatoes & Burrata

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as part of an antipasto platter. It’s also ideal with crisp white wine or rosé, and sparkling water with lemon.

How To Store Tomatoes & Burrata

Refrigerate:
Store leftover burrata and tomatoes separately. Burrata should be consumed within 1–2 days. Keep basil in a sealed bag with a damp towel in the fridge.

Freeze:
Not recommended, as burrata and tomatoes do not freeze well.

Tomatoes & Burrata Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 380mg

FAQs

What is burrata cheese?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, with a soft, creamy center.

Can I use regular mozzarella instead?
Yes, though burrata’s creamy texture makes this dish special.

How do I slice burrata neatly?
Use a sharp knife and gentle pressure to avoid spilling the creamy center.

Do I have to use heirloom tomatoes?
Heirloom tomatoes are best, but any ripe, flavorful tomato will work.

Can I prep this dish ahead?
You can make the toasts and prep the basil, but assemble the salad just before serving.

Try More Recipes:

• Barefoot Contessa Garlic Toasts
• Barefoot Contessa Spanish Tapas Peppers
• Barefoot Contessa Marinated Herbed Feta