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Easy Burrata Balls Holiday Appetizer

Easy Burrata Balls Holiday Appetizer

The Easy Burrata Balls Holiday Appetizer is a creamy, fresh, and vibrant starter that combines soft burrata cheese with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze. Perfect for festive gatherings, it offers effortless elegance with bite-sized portions, customizable toppings, and a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Burrata balls (about 8-12 pieces, room temperature)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (2-3 tablespoons)
  • Fresh herbs: basil, thyme, or oregano (a handful, rinsed and dried)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved or quartered)
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • Balsamic glaze (2 tablespoons, optional for drizzling)
  • Toasted bread or crackers (for serving)

Optional Variations & Add-ons

  • Crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil (to taste, for a spicy kick)
  • Alternative herbs: mint, chives, or cilantro (as desired)
  • Fresh figs or peaches (thinly sliced, for fruit infusion)
  • Toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios (sprinkled on top)
  • Vegan burrata (almond or cashew based, to substitute dairy burrata)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gently rinse your fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes, pat them dry, and slice the tomatoes in halves or quarters depending on their size. Gather the burrata balls and lay out your serving platter.
  2. Assemble the Burrata Balls: Place each burrata ball evenly spaced on the platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and lightly sprinkle sea salt and cracked black pepper over each ball to season them perfectly.
  3. Add Fresh Toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs around and atop the burrata balls. These toppings enhance both flavor and presentation, making the dish festive and inviting.
  4. Finish with a Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the burrata balls in a decorative pattern for a touch of sweetness and visual contrast. Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers alongside for the perfect bite.

Notes

  • Use room temperature burrata cheese for maximum creaminess.
  • Choose the freshest herbs and highest quality olive oil to elevate the flavors.
  • Handle burrata gently to avoid breaking the delicate outer shell and preserve the creamy center.
  • Toast bread or crackers just before serving to keep them crunchy.
  • Prepare the appetizer close to serving time to maintain freshness and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: burrata appetizer, holiday appetizer, creamy cheese balls, festive starter, easy appetizer, no-cook recipe