Burrata and Prosciutto Appetizer
Burrata and prosciutto—two ingredients, simple sophistication. This easy appetizer comes together in minutes and delivers the perfect mix of creamy, salty, and savory goodness.
Burrata + Prosciutto = Flavor Perfection
There’s something about this classic Italian pairing that’s simply irresistible. Creamy burrata, with its soft mozzarella shell and rich, silky center, showcases the artistry of Italian cheese-making.
Add salty, melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto, sweet, sun-ripened heirloom tomatoes, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a dish that’s equal parts rustic charm and sophisticated elegance.
This simple starter celebrates the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients—each one shining on its own yet working perfectly together.
Whether it’s a casual gathering or an elegant dinner party, this dish brings a touch of Italy to the table. So grab some rustic grilled bread, pour a glass of wine, and prepare for all the compliments headed your way!
Complete the Menu: Kick off an Italian-inspired feast with this burrata and prosciutto appetizer plate. Follow it with Ricotta Pesto Pasta, a fresh Spinach and Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan, and perfectly Grilled Summer Squash and Zucchini for a meal that’s as delicious as it is elegant.
And for more Italian-style appetizer recipe ideas check out our Prosciutto and Fig Jam Flatbread, Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Antipasto Toppings, Peach Tomato Burrata Bruschetta, and Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates with Blue Cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredient Notes
Burrata Cheese: The creamy, luscious centerpiece of this dish. Let it sit out for 20–30 minutes to come to room temperature so the center is at peak creaminess and ready to enjoy. Try using truffle-flavored burrata (if you can find it) for a different twist.
Prosciutto: Salty ribbons of goodness. Tear it into little pieces so it nestles perfectly around the cheese and tomatoes.
Tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes are the way to go here—vibrant, sweet, and tangy, they make the dish pop. Slice them fresh for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil with a fruity flavor and golden-green hue. It enhances the dish’s overall flavor, so select one you enjoy drizzling on its own.
Salt and Pepper: A little flaky salt and freshly cracked black pepper go a long way. Don’t skip this—it’s the simple seasoning that makes the flavors pop.
Balsamic Glaze: A sweet and tangy balsamic glaze balances the creamy burrata and salty prosciutto. If you don’t have a glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar until it reduces and thickens slightly.
Fresh Greens: Greens are optional, but they add a pop of color and fresh, herby vibes. Basil is a classic, but parsley or microgreens keep it feeling fresh and modern.
Rustic Italian Loaf: Toasty, crispy bread is non-negotiable. Brush it with olive oil, grill or toast it, and let it soak up all that balsamic-tomato-burrata goodness.
*Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.
Ingredient Spotlight: Burrata Cheese
Burrata is the star of this dish, known for its soft, pillowy outer layer of mozzarella that gives way to a rich, creamy center of stracciatella and cream. Its mild, buttery flavor and luxurious texture make it a showstopper on any appetizer plate.
When choosing burrata, look for fresh options in the cheese section of your grocery store or at specialty markets. It’s best served at room temperature to highlight its creamy goodness—just let it sit out for about 20–30 minutes before plating.
Want to learn more about burrata? Check out this guide to burrata cheese and tips for serving burrata.
Step-By-Step Directions
1
Plate Burrata
Place the burrata in the center of a serving dish.
2
Arrange And Season
Arrange the sliced tomatoes around the cheese in overlapping layers. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3
Drizzle Glaze
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over both the burrata and the tomatoes.
4
Add Prosciutto
Tear the prosciutto into smaller pieces and tuck them around the tomatoes and burrata.
5
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh greens like parsley or basil, and serve with grilled bread on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Classic Appetizer: Serve this dish as a centerpiece appetizer for your dinner party or holiday gathering. Pair it with grilled bread for a rustic yet sophisticated touch.
- Antipasto-Style Platter: Expand the plate by adding marinated olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for a more robust spread.
- Light Lunch or Brunch: Transform this into a light meal by serving alongside a simple mixed green salad like a fresh spinach and arugula salad with shaved parmesan.
- Seasonal Flair: For a seasonal twist, sub in sliced fresh figs in late summer or early fall for the tomatoes, or pomegranate arils during the winter months for a pop of color and flavor.
- Wine Pairings:
- A crisp Pinot Grigio or a dry Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess of the burrata and the acidity of the tomatoes.
- For red wine lovers, try a light, fruit-forward Chianti or a Pinot Noir, which won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.
- If you’re feeling festive, a chilled glass of Prosecco adds a bubbly touch to the meal.
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Burrata and Prosciutto Appetizer
Ingredients
- 4 ounces burrata cheese
- 10 ounces tomatoes (preferably a mix of heirloom tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- salt and fresh cracked black pepper, for seasoning (use flaky sea salt like Maldon if you have it)
- balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
- fresh greens (like parsley, basil, or microgreens) for garnish, optional
- 1 small rustic Italian loaf, sliced and grilled (or toasted)
Instructions
- Prepare the Burrata: Start by placing the ball of burrata in the center of a serving platter. This will serve as the focal point of the dish, so choose a plate or platter that allows enough space for the remaining ingredients.
- Arrange the Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes into even rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Arrange them around the burrata, creating a decorative ring. Make sure the slices slightly overlap for a polished presentation.
- Season the Tomatoes: Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil to enhance their natural flavor. Season the tomatoes evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the Balsamic Glaze: Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle balsamic glaze over the burrata and the tomatoes. Apply enough to add flavor without overwhelming the dish. For an artistic touch, create a light zigzag pattern over them.
- Add the Prosciutto: Tear the prosciutto slices into smaller pieces—each slice can be divided into two or three sections. Lightly fold and drape the pieces around the burrata and among the tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution.
- Garnish the Dish: For a fresh finish, add a handful of greens. Tear fresh basil leaves or sprigs of parsley into smaller pieces, and scatter them over the platter for a bit of extra color.
- Serve with Bread: Pair the burrata and prosciutto with slices of grilled bread. Arrange the bread around the edge of the platter or serve on a separate plate. The bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy burrata and juices from the tomatoes.
Recipe Notes
Top Tips
- Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor—ripe tomatoes, creamy burrata, and high-quality prosciutto make all the difference.
- Let the burrata come to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
- Substitute regular burrata with truffle-flavored burrata or truffle oil for the olive oil for an extra layer of earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients (omitting the balsamic glaze).
- Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
- Need to serve a crowd? This recipe is super easy to double or even triple—just grab a larger platter and pile on the goodness!
Leftovers and Storage
- Burrata: If there are leftovers, store the burrata in its original liquid or in a small container with fresh water. Use within 1–2 days for the freshest quality.
- Assembled Dish: This appetizer is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must store leftovers, keep each ingredient separate to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
*Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy only and should be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary and Maplevine Kitchen makes no guarantees to the accuracy of this information.
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