Burrata Salami Platter: The Ultimate Guide to a Delicious Appetizer

Burrata Salami Platter: the ultimate no-cook appetizer that will disappear faster than you can say “aperitivo!” Imagine this: creamy, dreamy burrata, its delicate skin yielding to reveal a molten heart of stracciatella, nestled amongst slices of savory, perfectly spiced salami. Are you drooling yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

While the exact origins of charcuterie boards and platters are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of preserving meats and cheeses for later consumption dates back centuries. In Italy, the art of creating beautiful and delicious antipasto platters is a cherished tradition, a way to celebrate simple, high-quality ingredients and share them with loved ones. This Burrata Salami Platter is my modern take on that classic, bringing together the best of Italian flavors in one stunning presentation.

People adore this dish for its sheer simplicity and incredible flavor profile. The richness of the burrata is perfectly balanced by the saltiness of the salami, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! No cooking required, just a little arranging, making it the ideal appetizer for busy weeknights or elegant weekend gatherings. The textures, too, are a delight – the smooth, creamy burrata against the slightly chewy salami is a match made in culinary heaven. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to appetizer for any occasion!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Burrata cheese (2 balls)
• 6 oz Salami (variety of flavors, such as Genoa, Sopressata, and Calabrese)
• 4 oz Prosciutto
• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• ¼ cup Olive oil, extra virgin
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp Balsamic glaze
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• ½ cup Green olives, pitted
• 4 oz Artichoke hearts, quartered
• 4 oz Roasted red peppers, sliced
• 2 oz Sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
• 2 oz Marinated mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
• Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
• Crackers (assorted, for serving)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparing the Bread

First, we’re going to get the bread ready. This step adds a lovely crunch and garlicky flavor that complements the creamy burrata and savory meats.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure the bread toasts evenly without burning.
2. Prepare the garlic oil. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Make sure the garlic is finely minced to distribute the flavor evenly. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the garlic to infuse the oil. This step is crucial for that delicious garlicky aroma and taste.
3. Brush the bread slices. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, generously brush each slice with the garlic oil. Don’t be shy! We want every bite to be flavorful. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the bread. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Cool the bread. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the toasted baguette slices cool slightly before arranging them on the platter. This will prevent them from steaming and losing their crispness.

Arranging the Platter

Now comes the fun part – assembling the platter! This is where you can get creative and arrange the ingredients in an appealing way. Think about colors, textures, and heights to make it visually stunning.

1. Place the burrata. Start by placing the burrata balls in the center of your serving platter or board. I like to use a large wooden board for a rustic look, but any large platter will work. Make sure the burrata is the focal point.
2. Arrange the meats. Next, arrange the salami and prosciutto around the burrata. You can fold the prosciutto into ribbons or simply lay the salami slices in overlapping patterns. Try to create some visual interest by varying the way you present each type of meat. For example, you could roll some of the salami slices into cones.
3. Add the olives and artichoke hearts. Scatter the Kalamata olives, green olives, and quartered artichoke hearts around the meats and burrata. These add a briny and slightly acidic element that balances the richness of the cheese and meats.
4. Incorporate the roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes. Add the sliced roasted red peppers and drained sun-dried tomatoes to the platter. Their vibrant colors and sweet, tangy flavors will enhance the overall taste and appearance.
5. Place the marinated mozzarella balls. Nestle the marinated mozzarella balls (ciliegine) amongst the other ingredients. Their small size and creamy texture provide a delightful contrast.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the platter. Then, tuck fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs around the edges and in between the ingredients for a fragrant and visually appealing garnish. The herbs not only look beautiful but also add a fresh, aromatic touch.
7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the burrata and around the platter. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements all the other flavors. Be careful not to overdo it, as it can be quite strong.
8. Add the toasted bread and crackers. Arrange the toasted baguette slices and assorted crackers around the perimeter of the platter. This provides a variety of textures and serving options for your guests.
9. Season to taste. Finally, season the entire platter with a light sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Burrata Salami Platter is best served immediately. However, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time, such as toasting the bread and chopping the vegetables. Just assemble the platter right before serving to ensure the burrata is fresh and the bread is crispy.

• Serve with a good quality olive oil. Offer a small bowl of extra virgin olive oil for dipping the bread and crackers.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine. A Pinot Grigio or a Chianti would be excellent choices.
• Consider adding other accompaniments. Some other great additions to this platter include:
  • Fig jam
  • Honey
  • Pesto
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Fresh fruit (such as grapes or berries)

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize this Burrata Salami Platter to your liking:

• Use different types of cheese. If you can’t find burrata, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese.
• Experiment with different meats. Try adding other cured meats such as coppa or pancetta.
• Add some spice. If you like a little heat, add some chili flakes to the garlic oil or include some spicy salami on the platter.
• Make it vegetarian. Omit the meats and add more vegetables, such as grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
• Adjust the quantities to suit your needs. This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on the number of people you are serving.

Make Ahead Tips

While the platter is best assembled fresh, you can definitely get a head start by prepping some of the ingredients in advance. This is especially helpful if you’re short on time or entertaining a large group.

• Toast the bread: You can toast the baguette slices up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
• Prepare the garlic oil: The garlic-infused olive oil can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered at room temperature.
• Chop the vegetables: Chop the basil, slice the roasted red peppers, and quarter the artichoke hearts a few hours in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Drain the sun-dried tomatoes: Drain the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to assemble the platter, simply arrange the prepped ingredients along with the fresh burrata, salami, prosciutto, olives, and marinated mozzarella balls. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.

Why This Platter Works

This Burrata Salami Platter is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly memorable culinary experience. The creamy, delicate burrata provides a rich and luxurious base, while the savory salami and prosciutto offer a satisfying meaty counterpoint. The briny olives, tangy artichoke hearts, and sweet roasted red peppers add layers of complexity and depth. And the crispy toasted bread and assorted crackers provide the perfect vehicle for enjoying all the delicious components.

The beauty of this platter lies in its versatility. It’s perfect for a casual get-together with friends, a romantic date night, or a sophisticated cocktail party. It’s also incredibly easy to customize to your own tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a meat lover, a cheese enthusiast, or a vegetarian, you can easily adapt this platter to create a dish that everyone will enjoy.

So, gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and get ready to impress your guests with this stunning and delicious Burrata Salami Platter!

Conclusion:

This Burrata Salami Platter isn’t just an appetizer; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, salty, and fresh, all coming together in a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. The simplicity of the preparation belies the sophistication of the final product, making it a must-try for anyone who appreciates good food and effortless entertaining. I truly believe this will become a staple in your repertoire, a go-to for everything from casual weeknight snacking to elegant dinner parties.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile! You can tailor it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Not a fan of salami? Swap it out for prosciutto or chorizo. Vegetarian? Add grilled halloumi or marinated artichoke hearts. The possibilities are endless! The creamy burrata is the star, providing a rich and decadent base that complements a wide range of flavors. The salty salami provides a delightful contrast, while the fresh herbs and drizzle of olive oil add a touch of brightness and complexity. It’s a complete package, offering a balance of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Beyond the basic recipe, there are so many ways to elevate your Burrata Salami Platter. Consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tang. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick of heat. For a more substantial platter, include crusty bread or crostini for dipping and spreading. You could even add some grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a pop of color and added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a casual gathering: Serve the platter with a selection of crackers, olives, and a bottle of chilled white wine.
* For a more formal occasion: Arrange the ingredients artfully on a large wooden board and garnish with edible flowers.
* For a vegetarian option: Replace the salami with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated artichoke hearts.
* For a gluten-free option: Serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks.
* For a spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
* For a sweet and savory twist: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature Burrata Salami Platter.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try a different type of salami? Did you add any unique toppings? What did your guests think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #BurrataSalamiPlatter and tag me so I can see your creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy snacking! I am confident that this recipe will become a favorite, and I look forward to hearing all about your culinary adventures. Go ahead, give it a try – you won’t regret it!