Herb Roasted Olives with Burrata Recipe
This Herb Roasted Olives with Burrata recipe features a delightful medley of mixed olives roasted with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon zest, all drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance their natural flavors. Served warm alongside creamy burrata cheese and garnished with fresh dill and basil, this dish pairs perfectly with toasted rustic bread, making it an elegant appetizer or snack that bursts with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Olive Mixture
- 2 cups mixed olives, pitted
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 small yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 medium lemon, peels only
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil
Cheese and Garnish
- 2-3 balls burrata cheese, room temperature
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Bread
- 1 loaf bakery bread (focaccia, ciabatta, or baguette), sliced and toasted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for roasting the olives and aromatics.
- Assemble Olive Mixture: In a baking dish or roasting pan, combine the pitted mixed olives, smashed garlic cloves, thinly sliced yellow onion, fresh rosemary sprig, fresh thyme sprigs, lemon peels, and red pepper flakes. Pour the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the mixture to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
- Roast the Olives and Aromatics: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. During roasting, the olives will warm through and absorb the flavors of the herbs, garlic, lemon, and chili flakes, while the onion softens and melds with the oil.
- Prepare the Burrata and Bread: While the olives roast, slice your chosen bakery bread (focaccia, ciabatta, or baguette) and toast the slices until golden and crisp. Remove burrata cheese from the refrigerator ahead of time to bring it to room temperature for optimal creaminess.
- Serve Warm with Garnishes: Once roasted, remove the olives from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Arrange the burrata cheese balls nearby and drizzle with some of the infused olive oil from the pan. Garnish everything with fresh dill and basil for a burst of color and herbal aroma. Serve immediately with the toasted bread on the side for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- Pitting the olives beforehand saves time and makes them easier to eat.
- Using room temperature burrata enhances its creamy texture and flavor.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs depending on preference, such as using oregano or sage.
- This dish pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or light rosé.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
