Let me introduce you to a dish that’s become the highlight of my summer table: Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata. Imagine sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes gently roasted until they’re bursting with flavor, then spooned lovingly over luscious, creamy burrata cheese and finished with fragrant herbs. It’s an irresistible combination that celebrates the very best of fresh, seasonal produce, perfect for sharing with friends or making any weeknight feel gloriously special. This dish is the kind you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re entertaining a crowd or treating yourself to something vibrant and truly delicious.

Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata is in its simplicity: every ingredient shines and brings something essential to the party. You’ll be amazed at how just a few thoughtfully chosen components come together to create magic on your plate. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters:

Cherry tomatoes: These little gems become beautifully sweet and intense when roasted, forming the foundation of the dish.
Olive oil: A generous drizzle helps the tomatoes caramelize and adds rich, Mediterranean flavor.
Garlic (minced): Just enough to infuse the tomatoes with a warm, aromatic kick without overpowering the cheese.
Fresh thyme (or dried thyme): Earthy and fragrant, thyme adds a herby layer that plays wonderfully with the tomatoes.
Salt: Brings out all the natural juiciness and sweetness of the tomatoes.
Black pepper: A dash for subtle warmth and complexity.
Fresh burrata cheese: The creamy, dreamy star of the show that pairs perfectly with the roasted tomatoes.
Fresh basil (chopped): Sprinkled over at the end for a burst of color and summery flavor.
Crusty bread or crostini: The ideal vehicle for scooping up every last bit of tomato and cheese goodness.

How to Make Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle temperature is key for coaxing out all the natural sweetness from your tomatoes without burning them. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a total breeze—trust me, you’ll appreciate this little touch later!

Step 2: Season the Tomatoes

In a bowl, toss your cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Take a moment here to make sure every tomato is kissed with oil and seasoning—this is where all that incredible depth of flavor begins. Don’t rush this step; a thorough toss makes a world of difference.

Step 3: Slow-Roast the Tomatoes

Spread the seasoned tomatoes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and let them roast for 45 to 60 minutes, until they’re soft, caramelized, and a little bit shriveled at the edges. The kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing! This slow and steady roast draws out their sweetness, concentrates the flavors, and gives you that irresistible jammy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Let the roasted tomatoes cool for just a couple of minutes—enough that they’re warm, not piping hot. Place the burrata onto your favorite serving platter, then generously spoon the warm tomatoes and their garlicky oil over and around the cheese. The contrast between creamy burrata and jammy tomatoes is pure joy!

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, shower everything with chopped fresh basil. The bright, peppery freshness really brings the Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata to life. You can also add a drizzle of good balsamic glaze if you’d like an extra pop of tangy sweetness—it’s optional but highly recommended.

How to Serve Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh basil is non-negotiable for me, but you can also play with a bit of flaky sea salt, a grind of extra black pepper, or even a dusting of lemon zest. For extra flair, try adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of that irresistible balsamic glaze. The key is to highlight, not overwhelm, the gorgeous flavors of Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata.

Side Dishes

This dish is stunning as a centerpiece appetizer, but it also takes kindly to all sorts of sides. Crisp, fresh salads with greens and citrus are a delightful partner. Roasted or grilled vegetables, marinated olives, and a platter of sliced prosciutto all round out the spread beautifully. And of course, don’t forget plenty of chewy, crusty bread or airy crostini—absolute musts for soaking up every last drop.

Creative Ways to Present

While piling everything onto a rustic platter is always a crowd-pleaser, you can really have fun here. Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner party, or fill endive leaves for a passable, fuss-free option. Layer the Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata onto bruschetta for a show-stopping canapé, or top with microgreens for an elegant, modern edge. However you serve it, the flavors will shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata (it’s rare, but it does happen!), store the roasted tomatoes and burrata separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The tomatoes will keep for up to four days and are fantastic tossed into salads, pastas, or grain bowls. The burrata should be enjoyed within two days for best texture and flavor.

Freezing

While burrata doesn’t freeze well due to its delicate, creamy interior, the slow-roasted cherry tomatoes are freezer-friendly! Stash them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy them spooned over fresh burrata just as before.

Reheating

To reheat your slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or they’ll lose their wonderful texture. Once they’re just warmed through, serve immediately with chilled or room temperature burrata.

FAQs

Can I use another type Appetizer

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and size, grape tomatoes or small heirloom varieties also work beautifully. Just make sure they’re ripe and bursting with flavor for the best Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata experience.

What can I substitute for burrata if I can’t find it?

If burrata is out of reach, fresh mozzarella is a wonderful alternative. For even more decadence, a dollop of ricotta or a generous smear of whipped feta pairs well with the slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, delivering a slightly different but equally delicious twist.

Is Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! The recipe itself is gluten-free as long as you skip the bread or serve with gluten-free crostini. The combination of the tomatoes and cheese stands perfectly on its own or with gluten-free accompaniments.

Can I make the roasted tomatoes in advance?

You sure can. Roast the tomatoes up to two days ahead and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently warm them so you can pour them over the burrata and enjoy all the layers of flavor in your Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Swap the burrata for a creamy vegan cheese or cashew-based spread to create a plant-based version. The slow-roasted cherry tomatoes will still be the star, pairing beautifully with any creamy vegan substitute and keeping the dish fabulously fresh and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about putting together this Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata. It’s easy, elegant, and bursting with summer flavors, making it a go-to for any occasion. I hope you’ll give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen, too!

Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Burrata Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 5 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (without bread)

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of slow-roasted cherry tomatoes paired with creamy burrata cheese, a perfect appetizer or side dish for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Slow-Roasted Tomatoes:

2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

8 ounces fresh burrata cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
crusty bread or crostini

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Tomatoes: In a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on the baking sheet.
Roast: Roast the tomatoes for 45-60 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let them cool slightly.
Assemble: Place burrata on a platter, top with roasted tomatoes, and sprinkle with basil.
Serve: Serve with crusty bread or crostini.