Toasted bread, shattered creamy burrata, and crushed castelvetrano olives mixed with lemon, olive oil, and herbs! Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or lunch option!
New Summer Fascination Unlocked.
Wow, these smashed olives are SUCH A DELIGHT.
I prepare them WEEKLY at this juncture. They reside in my fridge, and I just enjoy them for a Girl Lunch throughout the week with toasted bread and shredded burrata, making it one of the highlights of my life as of now.
I sourced this concept from Cheese Gal on Instagram – one of those beautiful instances where a video comes to you, you must try it right away, and it turns out as remarkable, or perhaps even superior, than anticipated.
The three key components:
- Castelvetrano olives, smashed into rough bits, mingled in a bath of lemon juice, olive oil, fresh oregano, and black pepper.
- Golden, slightly fried ciabatta with its airy, chewy pockets.
- A ball of burrata, torn apart on the bread, creating a cold and creamy little resting place for the olives.
In her original clip, Courtney opted for fresh basil. For some reason, oregano resonated more with me? Perhaps I was seeking an extra Mediterranean note? I’m not quite sure. Either option would work wonderfully.
I have a strong feeling you’re going to adore this. Even Bjork and the kids are hooked.
How To Prepare These Olives + Burrata
Crushed Olives with Burrata
Total Time:
20 minutesYield:
4–6 servings 1xDiet:
Vegetarian
Description
Toasted bread, shattered creamy burrata, and crushed castelvetrano olives mixed with lemon, olive oil, and herbs! Ideal as an appetizer, snack, or lunch option!
Ingredients
Scale
For the olives:
For serving:
Instructions
- Smash Olives: Set olives on a cutting board. Smash olives using the flat base of a glass until they’re lumpy and uneven.
- Combine: Transfer olives to a bowl; mix with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano leaves, and pepper. (Add salt if desired!)
- Chill (Optional): Refrigerate until cold and flavors meld – ideally for 12-24 hours. They taste great right away but even better after resting. Upon removing from the fridge, the oil might solidify; let it sit at room temperature to regain its juiciness. (Or add a splash of olive oil to loosen it up.)
- Bread: Slice your bread into pieces and drizzle with olive oil. I air fry mine at 375 for 4 minutes or until golden. You can also broil for a few minutes or toast in a skillet or on a grill.
- Burrata: Slice a ball of burrata in half, then gently pull it apart so the creamy core is slightly exposed and facing upwards.
- Serve: Place the burrata pieces on the bread, and ladle the olives and some of their juices over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh oregano leaves and freshly cracked black pepper. OH MY. Chilled, creamy, buttery, SO DELICIOUS.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: burrata, olives, appetizer, summer appetizer
More Beloved Summer Snacks
**Title: The Ideal Combination: Crushed Olives and Burrata Cheese**
In the realm of gourmet gastronomy, specific pairings distinguish themselves by their capacity to enhance the flavors of each element to unprecedented levels. One such combination is the delightful alliance of crushed olives and burrata cheese. This union melds the luxurious, creamy texture of burrata with the savory, bold flavor of olives, resulting in a harmonious balance that indulges the palate.
**Burrata Cheese: A Creamy Indulgence**
Originating from the Puglia region of Italy, burrata cheese is a culinary masterpiece on its own. This fresh Italian cheese is crafted from mozzarella and cream, providing a soft exterior with a rich, buttery interior. The term “burrata” derives from the Italian word “burro,” meaning butter, aptly describing its decadent texture. Burrata is generally served fresh and is best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its luscious consistency.
**Crushed Olives: A Flavorful Explosion**
For centuries, olives have been a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, celebrated for their robust flavors and adaptability. Crushing olives releases their natural oils and flavors, forming a paste-like consistency suitable for various culinary uses. The crushing process amplifies their taste, making them an excellent companion for the smooth, creamy burrata.
**The Art of Combination**
Balancing flavors and textures is crucial when pairing crushed olives with burrata cheese. The creamy, soft burrata acts as a perfect foundation for the intense, salty flavors of the olives. This combination crafts a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and invigorating.
**Serving Ideas**
1. **Simple Salad**: Lay down a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens, position a ball of burrata in the center, and generously spoon crushed olives on top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt for a straightforward yet sophisticated salad.
2. **Bruschetta**: Toast slices of hearty bread, spread a layer of crushed olives, and top with torn pieces of burrata. Finish with fresh basil or oregano for an appetizing starter.
3. **Pasta Dish**: Toss cooked pasta with crushed olives, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. Add burrata shortly before serving, allowing it to slightly melt and envelop the pasta.
4. **Pizza Topping**: Use crushed olives as a base on a pizza crust, add slices of burrata, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite.
**Conclusion**
The combination of crushed olives and burrata cheese showcases the charm of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether as a salad, bruschetta, or part of a main course, this pairing is certain to impress and delight anyone who experiences it. Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean and indulge in this exquisite culinary duo.