This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes, enhanced through gentle braising with garlic and herbs. The creamy burrata adds a luxurious contrast, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare but feels restaurant-quality, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.) ripe tomatoes (cherry or whole, cut into pieces) olive oil garlic onion or shallots fresh basil dried oregano or thyme red pepper flakes salt black pepper burrata cheese optional: balsamic vinegar or glaze optional: crusty bread for serving
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion or shallots and cook until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and herbs.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and become soft and jammy, about 15–20 minutes.
If desired, add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Transfer the braised tomatoes to a serving dish.
Place the burrata on top or in the center of the tomatoes.
Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil. Serve warm with crusty bread.
You can add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor or include olives or capers for a briny touch. Swap burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta if needed. For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also serve this over pasta or polenta for a heartier dish.
Storage/Reheating
Store the braised tomatoes separately from the burrata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the tomatoes gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add fresh burrata just before serving. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the tomatoes and cheese.
FAQs
What is burrata?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese with a creamy interior and soft outer shell.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, but fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It’s best served warm with fresh burrata added just before serving.
What type of tomatoes work best?
Cherry, grape, or ripe vine tomatoes all work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the tomatoes ahead and add burrata when serving.
What can I serve with it?
Crusty bread, pasta, or grilled meats pair well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the burrata or use a dairy-free alternative.
How do I enhance the flavor?
Use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs.
Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp works well.
Why are my tomatoes too watery?
Cook them longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Conclusion
Braised tomatoes with burrata is a simple yet stunning dish that brings together rich, creamy, and fresh flavors. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect recipe to elevate everyday meals or impress guests with a beautiful, delicious plate.
Braised Tomatoes with Burrata is a simple yet elegant dish featuring slow-cooked, juicy tomatoes paired with creamy burrata cheese. This easy recipe delivers rich, fresh flavors and is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal with crusty bread.
Ingredients
2 cups cherry or ripe tomatoes, halved or chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup onion or shallots, finely chopped 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme Salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste 1 ball (8 oz / 225 g) burrata cheese Fresh basil leaves, for garnish 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze (optional) Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion or shallots and cook until softened and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried herbs.
Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and become jammy.
If desired, stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Transfer the braised tomatoes to a serving dish.
Place the burrata on top or in the center.
Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil. Serve warm with crusty bread
Notes
Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.Add olives or capers for a briny twist.Swap burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta if needed.For a heartier meal, serve over pasta, polenta, or with grilled protein.Store tomatoes separately from burrata for up to 3 days. Reheat tomatoes gently and add fresh burrata before serving.
