The Burrata Caprese Sandwich with Cherry Tomato Confit is an indulgent, elegant twist on the classic Caprese salad, transformed into a hearty, satisfying sandwich. Fresh, creamy burrata cheese is paired with the sweet, tangy flavor of slow-cooked cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, all layered between toasted artisan bread. This sandwich is perfect for brunch, a gourmet lunch, or an impressive addition to your picnic basket.
What sets this sandwich apart is the use of cherry tomato confit, which intensifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and adds a jammy, caramelized texture. The burrata, with its luscious creamy center, balances the tartness of the tomatoes while fresh basil infuses each bite with aromatic brightness. The drizzle of balsamic glaze adds depth and a hint of sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors in every mouthful. Toasted artisan bread provides the perfect sturdy base, adding crunch and warmth to the sandwich. Whether you enjoy it as a centerpiece dish or pair it with a light salad or soup, this recipe celebrates the simplicity of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy meal at home, this sandwich is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the creamy, luxurious texture of burrata with the sweet, caramelized cherry tomato confit.
- Features fresh, vibrant flavors of basil, balsamic glaze, and artisan bread for a gourmet experience.
- A visually stunning dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining.
- Highly customizable with additional ingredients like prosciutto, arugula, or pesto.
- A versatile recipe that works for casual lunches, fancy dinners, or light meals.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Ingredients
For the Cherry Tomato Confit:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices artisan bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 balls or 1 large ball)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Olive oil or softened butter, for toasting
Optional Add-Ons:
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup arugula
- 2 tablespoons pesto
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cherry Tomato Confit
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Assemble the Ingredients: Spread the cherry tomato halves in a single layer in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sliced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Place the dish in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly shriveled, and caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Toast the Bread
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly brush each slice of bread with olive oil or spread with softened butter.
- Toast: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Toast the bread slices until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the cherry tomato confit evenly over four slices of toasted bread.
- Place burrata cheese on top of the tomatoes, tearing it gently to distribute evenly.
- Add fresh basil leaves generously over the burrata.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for sweetness and tang.
- Optional: Add prosciutto, arugula, or pesto for extra flavor.
- Top and Serve: Close the sandwiches with the remaining slices of bread. Slice in half for easier handling and serve immediately.
Ingredient Background
- Burrata Cheese: Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, with a soft, creamy center. Its luxurious texture pairs perfectly with the caramelized cherry tomatoes.
- Cherry Tomato Confit: Slow-cooking cherry tomatoes in olive oil intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a rich, flavorful base for the sandwich.
- Artisan Bread: A hearty, crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough provides a sturdy foundation and complements the creamy and tangy ingredients.
- Balsamic Glaze: A concentrated, syrupy balsamic reduction adds a sweet, tangy note that balances the dish.
Technique Tips
- Don’t Rush the Tomatoes: Slow-roasting the cherry tomatoes allows their natural sweetness to develop and creates a jammy texture.
- Warm the Burrata: Allow burrata to come to room temperature before assembling for maximum creaminess.
- Choose the Right Bread: Use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the moist fillings without becoming soggy.
- Toasting is Key: Toasting the bread enhances its flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the sandwich.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Open-Faced: Serve the sandwich as an open-faced tartine for a more elegant presentation.
- Mini Sliders: Use small ciabatta rolls to create bite-sized sliders for appetizers or parties.
- Deconstructed Plate: Arrange the ingredients on a platter for a make-your-own sandwich bar.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh burrata, basil, and high-quality olive oil make a significant difference in flavor.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper in the tomato confit and balsamic glaze to suit your palate.
- Serve Immediately: Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Caprese Panini: Grill the assembled sandwich in a panini press for a warm, melty variation.
- Pesto Burrata Sandwich: Add a layer of basil pesto for an herbaceous twist.
- Protein-Packed: Include grilled chicken or smoked salmon for a more substantial meal.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey for a hint of spice.
Freezing and Storage
- Tomato Confit: Store leftover tomato confit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before using.
- Assembled Sandwich: These sandwiches are best served fresh and are not recommended for freezing or long-term storage.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Whole-Grain Bread: Use whole-grain or multigrain bread for added fiber and nutrients.
- Reduced Oil: Reduce the olive oil in the tomato confit for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Additions: Add fresh spinach, roasted zucchini, or grilled eggplant for extra nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Brunch Spread: Pair with a fresh fruit salad, mimosas, and pastries for a sophisticated brunch menu.
- Picnic Favorite: Wrap the sandwiches in parchment paper and serve with sparkling water and chips for a gourmet picnic.
- Dinner Appetizer: Slice the sandwiches into smaller portions and serve as appetizers alongside a charcuterie board.
Special Equipment
- Oven-Safe Dish: For roasting the cherry tomatoes evenly.
- Grill Pan: For achieving grill marks and crispy bread.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing burrata and bread without tearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of burrata?
Yes, fresh mozzarella works as a substitute, though it won’t have the creamy center of burrata.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of sugar until thickened.
3. Can I use store-bought tomato confit?
Yes, but homemade confit offers fresher, more vibrant flavors.
4. How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread thoroughly and assemble the sandwich just before serving.
5. Can I make the tomato confit ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tomato confit can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
6. What other herbs can I use?
Try adding fresh oregano, parsley, or mint for a unique flavor twist.
7. How do I serve it as a salad?
Skip the bread and layer the ingredients over arugula or mixed greens for a burrata Caprese salad.
8. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
The Burrata Caprese Sandwich with Cherry Tomato Confit is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for elevating your lunch or brunch menu. The creamy burrata melts beautifully over the sweet, slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, creating a rich and indulgent bite. Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbaceous note, while the drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze ties everything together with a touch of sweetness. Toasted artisan bread provides the perfect crunchy foundation for this gourmet sandwich. Easy to prepare yet visually stunning, it’s ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Customize it with prosciutto, arugula, or pesto for added flair!
PrintBurrata Caprese Sandwich with Cherry Tomato Confit
- Author: Olivia
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Ingredients
For the Cherry Tomato Confit:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices artisan bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese (2 balls or 1 large ball)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Olive oil or softened butter, for toasting
Optional Add-Ons:
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup arugula
- 2 tablespoons pesto
Instructions
Prepare the Cherry Tomato Confit
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Assemble the Ingredients: Spread the cherry tomato halves in a single layer in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sliced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Place the dish in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly shriveled, and caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Toast the Bread
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly brush each slice of bread with olive oil or spread with softened butter.
- Toast: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Toast the bread slices until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the cherry tomato confit evenly over four slices of toasted bread.
- Place burrata cheese on top of the tomatoes, tearing it gently to distribute evenly.
- Add fresh basil leaves generously over the burrata.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for sweetness and tang.
- Optional: Add prosciutto, arugula, or pesto for extra flavor.
- Top and Serve: Close the sandwiches with the remaining slices of bread. Slice in half for easier handling and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g