Mediterranean Burrata & Caramelized Onion Board
This Mediterranean Burrata & Caramelized Onion Board is a rich and elegant appetizer that blends creamy burrata with the sweet depth of caramelized onions and the vibrant freshness of Mediterranean ingredients. It’s the perfect centerpiece for entertaining—simple, colorful, and bursting with flavor. The contrast between the soft cheese, savory-sweet onions, and briny accents like olives and artichokes makes every bite satisfying. Serve it with toasted baguette slices or pita wedges for a beautiful, shareable starter.
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients:
Main Components:
1 large ball of burrata cheese
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp balsamic glaze
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup marinated artichoke hearts
¼ cup Kalamata olives
½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Sea salt & cracked black pepper, to taste
Toasted baguette slices or pita wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Caramelize the Onions:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the sliced onions and a small pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for 15–20 minutes, until they turn soft, golden brown, and slightly sticky.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and cook for another 1–2 minutes to enhance the flavor. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the onions cook, halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the roasted red peppers.
Drain the artichoke hearts and olives if they’re packed in oil or brine.
Assemble the Board:
Place the burrata ball in the center of a large serving board or platter.
Spoon the caramelized onions around or partially over the burrata.
Arrange the cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and olives in small clusters around the cheese.
Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper over the burrata.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil or extra balsamic glaze.
Serve:
Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or warm pita wedges.
Encourage guests to scoop a bit of burrata with the caramelized onions and veggies for the full Mediterranean experience.
Tips
Perfectly Caramelized Onions
Use yellow or sweet onions for the best caramelization and depth of flavor.
Be patient—low and slow cooking is key. Don’t rush by turning up the heat, or they’ll burn instead of caramelizing.
For extra richness, add a splash of wine or a bit of brown sugar toward the end.
Burrata Tips
Serve burrata at room temperature for the creamiest texture. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.
If unavailable, fresh mozzarella or whipped ricotta can be a substitute.
Presentation & Garnish
Use a wooden board or marble platter for a rustic, elegant look.
Add color contrast—bright basil leaves, red peppers, and golden onions look great together.
Sprinkle a few crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat if desired.
Make It a Meal
Turn it into a light Mediterranean dinner by adding grilled chicken slices, prosciutto, or roasted vegetables.
Serve alongside a green salad or herbed couscous for a fuller spread.
Variations
Vegan Option: Replace burrata with a plant-based cashew cheese or a thick vegan yogurt dip.
Add crunch: Include toasted walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts for texture.
Sweet twist: Add a few figs or grapes for a sweet contrast to the savory onions.
Extra drizzle: Try truffle oil or chili-infused olive oil for a gourmet upgrade.
Q&A
Q: Can I make the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Yes. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: How do I serve burrata without it falling apart?
Use a small knife to gently cut into the burrata just before serving. Let the creamy center flow out naturally so guests can scoop it up easily.
Q: Can I use store-bought roasted peppers and artichokes?
Absolutely. They save time and still offer great flavor—just drain them well before adding to the board.
Q: What can I pair this with for drinks?
It pairs beautifully with white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), rosé, or even a light sparkling wine. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or a chilled herbal iced tea.
Q: Can I make it more filling for a group?
Yes, add protein options like grilled shrimp, cured meats, or chickpea salad bowls on the side.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, approx.)
(Based on 6 servings)
Calories: 320
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 7 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Calcium: 120 mg
(Values may vary based on brand and serving size.)
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Burrata & Caramelized Onion Board is all about balance—creamy, sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a casual dinner at home. Whether served as a starter, snack board, or light meal, it brings Mediterranean freshness and warmth to any table.