Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe

If you are searching for a stunning appetizer that effortlessly combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, look no further than this Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe. It’s a vibrant celebration of textures, where silky burrata cheese meets the bright zing of lemon-infused oil, fragrant rosemary, and the bold, peppery punch of salami. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a burst of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s truly wonderful about this Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients come together to create a sophisticated flavor profile. Each element plays a vital role in balancing taste and texture, allowing you to enjoy every bite.

• Extra virgin olive oil: The base for our infused oil, it adds richness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Just enough to impart a subtle piney aroma without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic cloves, smashed: Brings a mellow sweetness once fried, complementing the lemon zest.
• Thinly sliced lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy freshness that lifts the entire recipe.
• Black pepper: A couple of sprinkles to add a mild heat and depth.
• Fresh burrata cheese: Silky and creamy, the star of the show, served at room temperature for maximum flavor.
• Salami, thinly sliced: Provides a robust, peppery, and savory contrast that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Marcona almonds: Offer a delicate crunch and buttery background note that rounds out the platter.

How to Make Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe

Step 1: Infuse the Olive Oil

Begin by warming the extra virgin olive oil gently in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs to the oil, stirring occasionally as the garlic browns to a beautiful golden hue. This process takes about five minutes and is key to infusing the oil with aromatic depth. Then, add the thinly sliced lemon zest and continue cooking for just a minute until the lemon begins to soften and release its vibrant oils into the mixture. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in a few sprinkles of black pepper to finish this fragrant lemon pepper oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Burrata and Salami

While the oil is infusing, break the burrata cheese into rustic chunks. Spread the soft, creamy pieces into a shallow serving bowl, creating a luscious base. Arrange the thinly sliced salami around the burrata in pretty folds or bites that are easy to pick up. This visual presentation invites everyone to dive in.

Step 3: Assemble and Drizzle

Drizzle the warm lemon pepper oil generously over the burrata and salami, letting the fragrant flavors mingle with every piece. Scatter a handful of Marcona almonds over the platter for that perfect textural contrast and additional richness. For an extra finishing touch, add a few more twists of black pepper to taste. This final assembly is quick but incredibly rewarding.

How to Serve Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe

Garnishes

For garnish ideas, fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or thyme make beautiful additions and reinforce the herbal notes in the oil. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the creamy burrata and sharp salami, enhancing all the flavors without overshadowing them.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines as an appetizer on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or artisanal crackers adds a lovely crunch and serves as the perfect vessel for scooping up the cheese and salami. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully, adding freshness and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual gathering, you can serve this as a shared antipasto platter alongside olives, cherry tomatoes, and sliced fresh baguette. Alternatively, arrange individual portions on small plates with a drizzle of the lemon pepper oil and a few almonds for an elegant bite-sized presentation – ideal for entertaining with style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover burrata with lemon pepper salami bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the oil separate if possible to prevent the cheese from getting soggy. When ready to serve again, bring the cheese to room temperature for the best texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, especially for the burrata cheese, which loses its creamy texture once frozen and thawed. The salami, however, can be frozen separately if needed, but fresh is always best for quality and taste.

Reheating

Because the dish is served warm only in parts (the infused oil), gently reheat the oil on the stove before drizzling it over room temperature burrata and salami. Avoid direct heat on the cheese itself to maintain its delicate softness.

FAQs

Is it necessary to use fresh burrata cheese?

Fresh burrata is essential for the creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the robust salami and zesty lemon pepper oil. Packaged burrata might work in a pinch, but the fresh version truly elevates the dish.

How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

For a vegan twist, substitute burrata with a plant-based creamy cheese alternative and use vegan peppered deli slices instead of salami. Infuse the oil with herbs and lemon zest as usual for flavor. While the texture will differ, the bright and savory notes remain delightful.

Can I prepare the oil infusion ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the lemon pepper infused olive oil a day in advance and store it in a sealed container at room temperature. Just rewarm gently before drizzling to unlock those wonderful aromas when serving.

What is the best bread to serve alongside this recipe?

Crusty baguette slices, toasted ciabatta, or rustic sourdough all pair beautifully. Their firm texture contrasts the softness of the burrata, making each bite perfectly balanced.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami Bites Recipe enough for anyone looking for a quick, elegant appetizer that impresses with its flavor and simplicity. It truly brings a touch of gourmet hospitality to your table with minimal effort, and I hope you have as much fun making and sharing it as I always do!

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