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If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavor yet comes together effortlessly, this Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe is exactly the treat you need. Creamy burrata perfectly balances the bright, tangy, and spicy notes of marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes and Calabrian chilies, creating a harmony that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply want a show-stopping starter to elevate any meal, this appetizer is as stunning to look at as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor. Fresh heirloom cherry tomatoes bring juiciness and color, while Calabrian chilies add that subtle smoky heat that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 10 oz heirloom cherry tomatoes: Use a mix of colors for a picture-perfect presentation and sweet, juicy bursts in every bite.
- 2 tbsp chopped Calabrian chilis: Adds smoky, spicy depth that elevates the entire appetizer.
- 2 tbsp oil from the Calabrian chili jar: Infuses rich chili flavor and silky texture throughout the marinade.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1 tbsp capers: Introduces a salty, briny pop that cuts through the creaminess perfectly.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley: Adds fresh, herbal brightness and a lovely green contrast.
- 1 large garlic clove, minced: Gives a savory warmth that gently supports the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the individual ingredients to sing in harmony.
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked pepper: Just a touch of spice for complexity.
- 16 oz mini burrata balls: Creamy, luscious cheese that melts in your mouth and balances the spice.
- 1 loaf rustic ciabatta: Crispy toasty base that soaks up all the flavorful juices wonderfully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: For toasting the bread and providing a luxurious finish.
- 1-2 large garlic cloves (whole): Used for rubbing on warm bread to infuse a gentle garlic aroma.
How to Make Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Tomato Marinade
Start by combining your heirloom cherry tomatoes, chopped Calabrian chilies, the luscious oil from their jar, red wine vinegar, capers, parsley, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a large bowl. Stir everything to marry the bold flavors. This marinade should rest for at least 15 minutes, but letting it sit for an hour or more really allows those flavors to mingle beautifully. If you’re preparing ahead, you can even make this up to a day in advance — the tomatoes soak up even more of that delicious heat and tang.
Step 2: Toast the Rustic Ciabatta
While your tomatoes marinate, slice your rustic ciabatta loaf into 1/2 to 1-inch thick pieces, then cut those slices vertically in half for perfect finger-friendly sizes. Lay them out on a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle generously with olive oil. Use a pastry brush if you want more even coverage. Sprinkle kosher salt generously along with a hint of freshly cracked black pepper. Into the oven they go at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, baking for about 12 to 15 minutes until they’re crisp with a hint of golden brown. When they come out piping hot, take a whole garlic clove and rub it all over the warm bread slices. This simple step infuses a subtle garlic aroma that will tantalize your taste buds right from the first bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Appetizer
Place your creamy mini burrata balls into a large shallow serving dish or bowl with care — these little spheres are the star of the show. Spoon your vibrant Calabrian chili and tomato mixture lavishly on top, letting all those brilliant colors meld naturally. The idea is for each bite to have a bit of luscious burrata, spicy tangy tomatoes, and a touch of that salty, herbal marinade.
How to Serve Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, sprinkle some additional finely chopped fresh parsley to brighten the appearance and add extra herbaceous notes. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top will give a glossy finish and enhance richness. Just a few freshly cracked black pepper flakes can add inviting texture and aroma, making each plate irresistible.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, marinated olives, or a simple charcuterie board with cured meats for those who want to elevate the experience. The creamy, spicy combination in this dish complements Mediterranean-style sides beautifully without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests visually, serve the Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by additional toasted ciabatta slices and small bowls of extra chili oil and capers. For an elegant party, arrange individual mini burrata balls topped with a spoonful of marinade on small crostini as bite-sized canapés. The vibrant colors and luscious textures make it a natural eye-catcher wherever it appears.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the marinated tomato and chili mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers are still delicious. Burrata is best eaten fresh, but you can store any unused balls tightly wrapped in the fridge for a day or so.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for burrata since the texture changes and can become grainy. The tomato and chili marinade can be frozen in a sealed container, but fresh tomatoes may lose some firmness. For best results, prepare fresh each time.
Reheating
This appetizer shines best served at room temperature. If you need to reheat the bread, pop it in a hot oven for a few minutes to regain its crispness before serving again alongside the chilled burrata and tomato mixture.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of burrata?
You can substitute fresh mozzarella, but you’ll miss out on the creamy, rich center that makes burrata so special. Burrata truly transforms this appetizer into something extraordinary.
Are Calabrian chilies very spicy?
Calabrian chilies have a moderate heat level with a smoky, fruity flavor. They add a pleasant kick without overwhelming the other ingredients, but you can adjust the amount slightly based on your spice tolerance.
Can I prepare this appetizer vegan?
Yes! Simply replace burrata with a vegan cheese alternative that has a creamy texture, or use marinated tofu cubes for a similar richness paired with the spicy tomato mix.
What’s the best type of bread to use?
A rustic, crusty bread like ciabatta works beautifully here because it crisps up well and holds the juicy toppings without getting soggy too quickly.
How far in advance can I make this appetizer?
The marinade improves if made at least an hour ahead and can be prepared up to one day in advance. Burrata is best added just before serving to keep its silky texture intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an appetizer that combines ease with a gourmet flair, the Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s an inviting blend of creamy, spicy, tangy, and fresh flavors that will quickly become a favorite to whip up on any occasion. Give it a try and watch it steal the spotlight at your next gathering or cozy night in!
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Easiest Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easiest Every Calabrian Chili and Burrata Appetizer is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes with spicy Calabrian chilis, creamy mini burrata balls, and crispy garlic-infused ciabatta bread. Perfect for entertaining, this appetizer combines a spicy, tangy tomato mix with rich, smooth cheese and crunchy toasted bread for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Tomato and Chili Mixture
- 10 oz heirloom cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chopped Calabrian chilis
- 2 tbsp oil from the Calabrian chili jar
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp capers
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
Burrata and Bread
- 16 oz mini burrata balls (two 8-ounce containers, 4 balls each)
- 1 loaf rustic ciabatta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1–2 large garlic cloves (whole for rubbing on bread)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for toasting the bread.
- Prepare the Tomato and Chili Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the heirloom cherry tomatoes, chopped Calabrian chilis, chili oil from the jar, red wine vinegar, capers, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly. Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, ideally for an hour or more. You can also prepare this up to one day in advance. Adjust salt and pepper to taste after marinating. While it marinates, prepare and toast the bread.
- Prepare and Toast the Bread: Using a sharp bread knife, slice the rustic ciabatta loaf into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick slices, then cut each slice in half vertically. Place all bread slices on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil generously over the bread or brush it with a pastry brush for even coverage. Sprinkle kosher salt liberally over each piece, along with a small amount of freshly cracked black pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and lightly golden brown.
- Infuse Bread with Garlic: Immediately after removing the bread from the oven, take the whole garlic cloves and rub them across the hot toasts to infuse them with a subtle garlic aroma and flavor.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the mini burrata balls in a large shallow serving dish or bowl. Pour the marinated tomato and Calabrian chili mixture evenly over the burrata. Serve immediately with the prepared garlic-toasted ciabatta slices for dipping and scooping.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the tomato and chili mixture to marinate for at least an hour.
- You can prepare the tomato mixture up to one day ahead to deepen the flavors.
- Use a sharp serrated knife for cleanly slicing the ciabatta without crushing it.
- Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili depending on your preferred spice level.
- Serve this appetizer fresh to maintain the contrast between creamy burrata and crispy bread.
