Mediterranean Burrata Plate

Here’s a full recipe for a Mediterranean Burrata Plate, complete with a Q&A section to help you build the perfect appetizer, light lunch, or centerpiece for a mezze spread. It’s fresh, elegant, and no cooking is required!
🇮🇹🫒 Mediterranean Burrata Plate
🌟 Why You’ll Love It:
-
Fresh, vibrant, and creamy
-
No cooking needed
-
Ready in 10–15 minutes
-
Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for everyday
📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–4):
-
1 ball burrata (4–8 oz, fresh)
-
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
-
½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
-
¼ cup Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives, pitted and halved
-
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
-
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
-
1 tbsp balsamic glaze or pomegranate molasses
-
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
-
Fresh herbs: basil, mint, or parsley
-
To serve: warm pita, crusty bread, or crackers
-
Optional: roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, or hummus
🍽️ Instructions:
-
Assemble the Base:
-
Spread the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and onion on a plate or platter.
-
-
Add the Burrata:
-
Gently place the burrata ball in the center. Tear it open slightly to let the creamy center ooze out.
-
-
Season & Drizzle:
-
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over everything.
-
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
-
-
Serve:
-
Serve immediately with toasted pita, crostini, or fresh bread to scoop up all the flavors.
-
❓ Q&A: Mediterranean Burrata Plate
Q: What is burrata, and how is it different from mozzarella?
A: Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outside is solid mozzarella, but the inside is soft and creamy stracciatella. It’s richer and more indulgent than regular mozzarella.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep the veggies ahead and store them separately. Assemble and add the burrata, herbs, and drizzles right before serving for the freshest texture.
Q: What if I can’t find burrata?
A: Substitute with:
-
Fresh mozzarella balls or slices
-
A dollop of whipped ricotta
-
Soft goat cheese (for a tangier twist)
Q: Can I add protein to make it a meal?
A: Yes! Add:
-
Sliced grilled chicken
-
Roasted chickpeas or white beans
-
Prosciutto or salami
-
A scoop of hummus or tzatziki on the side
Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: The plate itself is gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if needed.
Q: What herbs work best?
A:
-
Basil: classic and sweet
-
Mint: refreshing
-
Parsley: earthy
-
You can mix them or use what you have on hand.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes. Use a vegan burrata or substitute with creamy cashew cheese or a plant-based ricotta. The rest of the plate is naturally vegan.
Q: What wine pairs well with this?
A:
-
Dry rosé
-
Sauvignon Blanc
-
Pinot Grigio
-
Or a crisp sparkling wine (like Prosecco)