Introduction and Overview
What is Peach Burrata Crostini with Tomato Vinaigrette?
Peach Burrata Crostini with Tomato Vinaigrette is a delightful and elegant appetizer that combines the creamy richness of burrata cheese with the sweetness of fresh peaches and the tanginess of a tomato vinaigrette. Served on toasted crostini, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors—sweet, savory, creamy, and tangy—making it an excellent choice for a summer appetizer, brunch, or even a light meal.
A Seasonal Summer Delight
This crostini recipe captures the essence of summer by using ripe, juicy peaches and fresh tomatoes. The creaminess of the burrata complements the fresh, vibrant flavors, while the crispy crostini provides a satisfying crunch. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Main Ingredients
Burrata Cheese
Burrata is a soft, creamy Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Its mild, milky flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart elements of the dish, offering a luxurious texture that elevates the crostini.
Peaches
Fresh peaches bring natural sweetness and a juicy texture to the crostini. Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to the dish.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the base for the vinaigrette, adding a tangy, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the burrata and the sweetness of the peaches. Tomatoes are also packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene.
Baguette
A French baguette is typically used to make crostini. It’s sliced thin, toasted until golden brown, and serves as the perfect crunchy base for the creamy burrata and juicy peaches.
Nutritional Benefits
Peaches: Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Peaches are a great source of vitamins A and C, which support skin health and immune function. They’re also low in calories but high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to this dish.
Burrata: A Source of Calcium and Protein
Burrata cheese provides a creamy texture while delivering calcium and protein. It’s rich and indulgent, but it also offers essential nutrients that support bone health and muscle repair.
Tomatoes: High in Lycopene
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and protects against certain types of cancer. They also provide vitamins C and K.
Preparation and Variations
Basic Recipe
Ingredients List
To make Peach Burrata Crostini with Tomato Vinaigrette, you’ll need:
- For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, peeled (for rubbing the crostini)
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 2-3 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- For the Tomato Vinaigrette:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crostini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once out of the oven, rub each slice with the peeled garlic clove for an extra layer of flavor.
- Prepare the Tomato Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Crostini:
- Spread a generous amount of burrata cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a few slices of fresh peaches.
- Drizzle with Tomato Vinaigrette:
- Spoon the tomato vinaigrette over the peaches and burrata. The tomatoes will add a burst of acidity that complements the sweet peaches and creamy burrata.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the crostini with freshly chopped basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the mix of textures and flavors.
Recipe Variations
Peach and Prosciutto Crostini
For a salty-sweet twist, add thin slices of prosciutto on top of the burrata before adding the peaches. The prosciutto’s salty flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches and the creaminess of the burrata.
Grilled Peach Crostini
Grill the peach slices before placing them on the crostini for a smoky, caramelized flavor. The grilling process enhances the sweetness of the peaches and adds a delicious charred element.
Heirloom Tomato and Peach Crostini
Use a mix of heirloom tomatoes for the vinaigrette to add a variety of colors and flavors. Heirloom tomatoes are often more flavorful than standard cherry tomatoes, making this variation extra special.
Vegan Peach Crostini
To make this dish vegan, replace the burrata with a plant-based cheese or a creamy spread, such as cashew cheese or almond ricotta. The rest of the ingredients remain the same for a vegan-friendly version of this elegant appetizer.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Suggestions
As an Appetizer
Serve these peach burrata crostini as a light appetizer at a summer dinner party or brunch. They’re elegant enough to impress guests and easy to prepare ahead of time.
With a Light Salad
Pair the crostini with a fresh green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette for a balanced and refreshing meal. The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the peaches and the creaminess of the burrata.
For a Wine and Cheese Night
These crostini are perfect for a wine and cheese night, alongside a selection of cheeses, fruits, and crackers. They provide a fresh, summery option that pairs well with a variety of wines.
Pairing Ideas
With Rosé or White Wine
A crisp rosé or a light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the sweet peaches and creamy burrata. The wine’s acidity balances the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the peaches.
With Sparkling Water or Lemonade
For a non-alcoholic option, pair the crostini with sparkling water infused with lemon or a glass of homemade lemonade. The light, refreshing drinks enhance the fruity and tangy elements of the dish.
With Iced Tea
A glass of lightly sweetened iced tea, perhaps with a hint of peach or mint, complements the crostini perfectly, adding another layer of refreshing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the crostini and the tomato vinaigrette ahead of time. Toast the baguette slices and store them in an airtight container, and refrigerate the tomato vinaigrette. Assemble the crostini with the burrata, peaches, and vinaigrette just before serving for the freshest flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
This dish is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the crostini and the tomato vinaigrette separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reassemble the crostini just before serving to maintain the crispness of the bread.
Can I use canned peaches?
Fresh peaches are recommended for this recipe, but if peaches are out of season, you can use canned peaches in juice. Be sure to drain them well and pat them dry before using to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for burrata?
If you don’t have burrata, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or ricotta. Both will provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the peaches and vinaigrette.
Can I grill the bread instead of toasting it in the oven?
Absolutely! Grilling the baguette slices adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs well with the peaches and burrata. Just brush the slices with olive oil and grill them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re crispy and lightly charred.
Conclusion
Peach Burrata Crostini with Tomato Vinaigrette is a light and elegant appetizer that perfectly balances creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors. The combination of fresh peaches, creamy burrata, and a bright tomato vinaigrette served on crispy crostini makes this dish a delightful summer treat. Whether served at a casual gathering or a sophisticated dinner party, this appetizer is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and simple, fresh ingredients.