Ingredients
Tomatoes and Seasoning
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for serving
- 4 large basil leaves, roughly torn, plus more for serving
Aromatics and Oil
- ⅔ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Cheese and Bread
- 8 ounce burrata, drained
- 16 slices baguette, grilled or toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Rinse the cherry or grape tomatoes and pat them dry. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil and garlic: In a large skillet or pan over medium-low heat, warm the extra-virgin olive oil. Add the thinly sliced garlic cloves and gently cook until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn them.
- Braise the tomatoes: Add the tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic oil. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of kosher salt over the tomatoes. Cook gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices, about 10-15 minutes. The tomatoes should become tender but still hold their shape.
- Add basil and finish: Stir in the roughly torn basil leaves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse flavor. Adjust seasoning with more salt if desired.
- Prepare the serving: Arrange the grilled or toasted baguette slices on a serving platter. Spoon the warm braised tomatoes over the bread evenly.
- Add burrata and garnish: Tear or slice the drained burrata cheese and place it atop the tomatoes on each bread slice. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and an additional pinch of kosher salt if preferred.
- Serve immediately: Serve the braised tomatoes with burrata while the tomatoes are warm and the bread is crisp for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use ripe, quality cherry or grape tomatoes for the freshest flavor.
- Do not overcook the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
- You can substitute basil with fresh oregano or thyme for a different aroma.
- Grilling the baguette adds a nice smoky flavor, but toasting works well too.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be served at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian