If you love vibrant fresh flavors and enjoy exploring the beauty of seasonal produce, the Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful dish brings together the sweetness and juiciness of heirloom tomatoes with a colorful array of creamy, tangy, savory, and crisp toppings. It’s like a mini tasting adventure on your plate, showcasing how simple ingredients can shine when combined thoughtfully. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, appetizer, or part of a summertime spread, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the creamy burrata that melts into the juicy tomatoes to the punchy pesto and crunchy pickles, each component adds depth and character.
- Heirloom tomatoes: Use thick slices to show off their beautiful colors and offer ample surface for toppings.
- Burrata: Creamy and luscious, this cheese adds a dreamy texture to the tomato base.
- Pesto: A fragrant herbaceous touch that brightens every bite.
- Cream cheese: Adds smooth richness and pairs perfectly with savory turkey and pickles.
- Deli turkey breast: Brings a mild, lean protein dimension.
- Bread and butter pickles: Sweet and tangy crunch to complement the savory elements.
- Olive oil: Delivers fruitiness and helps meld flavors together beautifully.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity to balance richness.
- Flaky sea salt: Enhances every flavor and adds a delicate crunch.
- Baby arugula: Peppery, fresh greens to brighten up the dish.
- Mozzarella slice: Smooth and mild, perfect for melting on tomatoes.
- Balsamic glaze: Sweet and tangy syrup that adds a glossy finish.
- Fresh basil leaves: Aromatic and classic herb to elevate the overall flavor.
- Cottage cheese: Light and fluffy, pairs well with honey and spice.
- Honey: Natural sweetness to balance savory and spice.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds an exciting kick.
- Baby cucumber: Thin slices provide crisp texture and freshness.
- Crumbly feta cheese: Salty and tangy, a beautiful contrast.
- Kalamata olives: Briny and robust, finishing with Mediterranean flair.
How to Make Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe
Step 1: Arrange the Tomato Slices
Start by placing six thick heirloom tomato slices on a large cutting board or plate. This colorful canvas will be the foundation for all your fresh toppings, so be sure to use the ripest tomatoes you can find for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Add Burrata and Pesto Magic
Spread 2 tablespoons of burrata generously over one tomato slice. Then top it with 1 tablespoon of pesto. Use a spoon to gently swirl the burrata and pesto together on the tomato, creating an irresistibly creamy and herbaceous bite.
Step 3: Cream Cheese, Turkey, and Pickles
Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on the next tomato slice. Layer a slice of deli turkey breast on top, followed by three slices of bread and butter pickles. This combo gives a lovely mix of creamy, savory, and sweet crunch that balances the sweetness of the tomato beautifully.
Step 4: Olive Oil, Lemon, and Arugula Delight
Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice onto another tomato slice. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over it, then scatter 3 pieces of baby arugula on top. This step adds brightness and a peppery freshness that wakes up your taste buds.
Step 5: Mozzarella, Balsamic, and Basil
Place a slice of mozzarella on the next tomato slice, drizzle it with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and then add a decorative drizzle of balsamic glaze. Top it with 3 fresh basil leaves to complete this classic yet elegant flavor trio.
Step 6: Cottage Cheese, Honey, and Red Pepper Flakes
Spoon 3 tablespoons of cottage cheese onto the next tomato slice. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of honey and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes. The blend of sweet, creamy, and spicy creates a delightful surprise that dances on the palate.
Step 7: Cucumber, Feta, and Kalamata Olives
Finally, add thin slices from half a baby cucumber onto the last tomato slice. Top with 1/2 tablespoon of crumbly feta cheese and 3 sliced kalamata olives. This combination offers refreshing crunch alongside salty, briny depth for a vibrant finish.
How to Serve Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves or additional baby arugula around the plate for a burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can bring everything together with a silky sheen.
Side Dishes
This tasting flight pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices to scoop up the creamy layers. A crisp white wine or a sparkling rosé complements the fresh flavors perfectly, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the tomato slices on a rustic wooden board or a bright white platter to highlight their stunning colors. Consider serving each slice with a small tasting fork or toothpick to encourage sharing and savoring every unique topping combination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the tomato slices separately from wet or creamy toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble again just before serving to keep textures fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing tomatoes and soft cheeses tends to alter their texture and flavor. For peak experience, avoid freezing the Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe.
Reheating
Reheating is not necessary and not recommended for this recipe since it shines in its fresh and chilled state. Let the flavors sing naturally without heat.
FAQs
Can I substitute other cheeses for burrata?
Absolutely! While burrata offers a wonderfully creamy texture, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can work as alternatives to keep the soft cheese element you’re looking for.
What if I can’t find heirloom tomatoes?
While heirlooms are ideal for their flavor and color, ripe beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes can be great substitutes to create this tasting flight.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, you can replace burrata, cream cheese, and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives and ensure the pesto contains no cheese. Use vegan honey substitutes like agave syrup for sweetness.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The tomato flight itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any bread or crackers served alongside are gluten-free if needed.
How long does this dish keep after assembling?
For optimal freshness and texture, enjoy the dish soon after assembly or within a couple of hours. The tomatoes release moisture over time which can soften the toppings.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe enough for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful food that looks almost too beautiful to eat. It’s simple, elegant, and endlessly adaptable — perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a sunny afternoon. Dive in and let the vibrant colors and delicious contrasts brighten your day!
Print
Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Toppings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Heirloom Tomato Flight featuring six beautifully prepared tomato slices, each topped with a unique combination of fresh cheeses, herbs, deli meat, and complementary flavors like pesto, balsamic glaze, and honey for a perfect appetizer or light snack.
Ingredients
Tomato Base
- 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons burrata
- 1 tablespoon pesto
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese
- 1 slice deli turkey breast
- 3 slices bread and butter pickles
- 3 pieces baby arugula
- 1 slice mozzarella
- 1/4 teaspoon balsamic glaze
- 3 leaves basil
- 3 tablespoons cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- 1/2 baby cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tablespoon crumbly feta cheese
- 3 kalamata olives, sliced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Tomato Base: Place six thick slices of heirloom tomato onto a large cutting board or plate to serve as the foundation for the toppings.
- Burrata and Pesto: Spread 2 tablespoons of burrata cheese generously over one tomato slice. Top with 1 tablespoon of pesto and swirl with a spoon to combine for a creamy and herbaceous flavor.
- Cream Cheese and Turkey: Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on another tomato slice. Layer a slice of deli turkey breast and 3 slices of bread and butter pickles on top to add a savory and tangy component.
- Olive Oil, Lemon, and Arugula: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice onto a tomato slice. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of flaky sea salt and add 3 pieces of baby arugula for freshness and a peppery bite.
- Mozzarella and Basil: Place 1 slice of mozzarella cheese on a tomato round. Drizzle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon balsamic glaze. Top with 3 leaves of fresh basil for a classic and fragrant finish.
- Cottage Cheese, Honey, and Red Pepper: Spoon 3 tablespoons of cottage cheese onto a tomato slice. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of honey over it and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Cucumber, Feta, and Olives: Top a tomato slice with thinly sliced half a baby cucumber. Add 1/2 tablespoon of crumbly feta cheese and 3 sliced kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired bite.
Notes
- This recipe is best served fresh to enjoy the contrasting textures and vibrant flavors of the heirloom tomatoes and toppings.
- Heirloom tomatoes vary in size; adjust the amount of toppings accordingly to ensure balanced bites.
- You can substitute turkey breast with another deli meat or omit for a vegetarian option by adding more cheese or herbs.
- Use fresh, high-quality herbs and cheeses to maximize flavor.
- Chilling the tomatoes before assembly enhances their texture and freshness.
