Elegant Burrata with Garlic Oil

This creamy burrata appetizer transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dish that's perfect for entertaining. The luscious cheese pairs beautifully with briny olives and capers, while the infused olive oil brings everything together with aromatic flavors.

I first served this at an impromptu gathering when friends stopped by unexpectedly, and it's been my go-to entertaining starter ever since. The combination of creamy cheese and savory toppings never fails to impress guests.

Ingredients

• Burrata cheese: Fresh mozzarella filled with cream, providing the perfect creamy base
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for the best flavor
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth when gently warmed in oil
• Fresh thyme leaves: Brings herbaceous notes that complement the cheese
• Castelvetrano olives: Buttery green olives that add briny flavor without overwhelming
• Capers: Tiny bursts of saltiness that balance the creamy cheese
• Lemon zest: Adds brightness and freshness to cut through the richness
• Pine nuts: Provides nutty flavor and textural contrast when toasted
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially important for the mild cheese
• French baguette: The perfect vehicle for scooping up the creamy cheese mixture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Arrange the Cheese:

Gently pull apart the burrata and arrange it on a serving platter, allowing the creamy interior to spill slightly. This creates an inviting presentation that showcases the cheese's luxurious texture.

Infuse the Oil:

Combine olive oil, grated garlic, and fresh thyme in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 10 minutes, watching carefully to ensure the garlic becomes fragrant without browning. This gentle heating process allows the aromatics to release their flavors into the oil without developing bitter notes.

Cool the Mixture:

Allow the infused oil to rest for about 5 minutes until it reaches room temperature. This cooling period prevents the hot oil from cooking the delicate cheese while still being warm enough to enhance the aroma.

Assemble the Dish:

Pour the fragrant garlic oil evenly over the arranged burrata, allowing it to pool slightly around the edges. The warm oil will begin to soften the cheese's exterior while infusing it with flavor.

Add the Toppings:

Sprinkle the olives, capers, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts across the top of the cheese in an even layer. Finish with a generous pinch of kosher salt to enhance all the flavors. This creates a beautiful presentation with contrasting colors and textures.

Serve Immediately:

Arrange sliced baguette around the platter, positioning the bread to make it easy for guests to scoop up the cheese mixture. The bread should be sliced thick enough to hold the toppings but thin enough to eat easily.

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My favorite part of this recipe is the moment the warm, garlic-infused oil hits the creamy burrata. The aroma that fills the kitchen instantly signals something special is coming to the table. When I serve this at gatherings, I love watching guests' faces light up at the first bite as they taste the combination of creamy cheese and punchy toppings.

Make Ahead Options

While this appetizer shines when served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline your entertaining prep. Infuse the garlic oil up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply warm it slightly before using. You can also measure and prepare all toppings the day before, storing them separately in the refrigerator. The final assembly should happen just before serving to maintain the burrata's perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If burrata is unavailable, use fresh mozzarella as a substitute, though you'll lose some of the creamy interior texture. For a different flavor profile, try goat cheese or even ricotta. Castelvetrano olives provide a buttery quality, but any green olive will work in a pinch. Walnuts or slivered almonds can replace pine nuts if needed. Fresh basil or rosemary can stand in for thyme, adjusting quantities to taste as these herbs have different potency levels.

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Serving Suggestions

Turn this appetizer into a light meal by serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The peppery greens complement the creamy cheese beautifully. For a more substantial spread, pair with prosciutto, fig jam, and additional marinated vegetables like roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts. This creates an impressive antipasto platter perfect for larger gatherings. Consider serving with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What can I substitute for Castelvetrano olives?

If Castelvetrano olives aren't available, you can substitute with Cerignola, Manzanilla, or any buttery green olive variety. For a different flavor profile, consider using kalamata olives or a mix of your favorite Mediterranean olives.

→ Can I make this burrata appetizer ahead of time?

For best results, assemble this appetizer just before serving as burrata is most luxurious when fresh. However, you can prepare the garlic-infused oil up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before pouring over the cheese.

→ What's the difference between burrata and mozzarella?

While both are Italian fresh cheeses, burrata is essentially a mozzarella pouch filled with cream and soft cheese curds. When cut open, burrata has a creamy, oozing center that regular mozzarella doesn't have, making it richer and more indulgent.

→ How do I store leftover burrata?

Ideally, burrata should be consumed immediately after assembly. If you must store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours. The texture will change somewhat but it will still be delicious.

→ What else can I serve with this burrata appetizer?

Beyond the French baguette, consider serving this with warm pita bread, water crackers, or crostini. For a lower-carb option, provide sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or endive leaves. It also pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice.

→ What wine pairs well with burrata?

This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino. If you prefer red, choose something light like a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. A glass of Prosecco or champagne would also complement the creamy cheese beautifully.