Roasted Beets and Burrata Recipe

Name: Roasted Beets and Burrata
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 Beets; 8 ounces Burrata cheese; 4 Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped; Balsamic Glaze

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

2 beets
8 ounces burrata cheese
4 fresh basil leaves, torn
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, or as needed

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Peel the beets and place them whole or cut into pieces on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Roast the beets in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.
Once the beets have cooled, peel and slice them into rounds.
Place the burrata in a shallow dish and slice it open, allowing the creamy cheese to ooze out.
Arrange the beet slices around the burrata, then top with the torn basil leaves.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze to taste, and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	197
Total Fat	13g (16% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	7g (37% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	45mg (15% Daily Value)
Sodium	386mg (17% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	7g (3% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	13g (26% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (2% Daily Value)
Calcium	296mg (23% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (3% Daily Value)
Potassium	166mg (4% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Roasted Beets and Burrata

The combination of roasted beets and burrata cheese has its roots in the culinary traditions of Italy, particularly in the northern regions where fresh dairy products and seasonal vegetables have long been celebrated. Burrata, a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, originated in the early 20th century in the Puglia region. Beets, on the other hand, have been cultivated in Europe for centuries, prized for their earthy sweetness and vibrant color. The pairing of roasted beets with creamy burrata is a modern evolution, blending traditional Italian ingredients with contemporary plating and flavor techniques.

Regional Variations and Nuances

While the classic Italian preparation uses fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil, regional adaptations vary. In northern Italy, you might find beets roasted with a touch of balsamic reduction, echoing the flavors of Modena. In the United States and other international settings, chefs often incorporate microgreens, toasted nuts, or a hint of citrus to enhance the dishs complexity. The use of different types of beetsgolden, chioggia, or redalso allows for subtle differences in sweetness and texture, offering a visually striking presentation alongside the creamy burrata.

Distinctive Qualities Compared to Similar Dishes

What sets roasted beets and burrata apart from other vegetable-and-cheese dishes is the interplay between earthy and creamy textures. Unlike a standard beet salad with feta or goat cheese, burrata adds a luxurious, almost custard-like richness that contrasts beautifully with the firm, slightly sweet roasted beets. This dish is less acidic than a traditional caprese salad, and the use of roasted, rather than raw, vegetables creates a deeper, more caramelized flavor profile.

Common Serving Contexts

Roasted beets and burrata are typically served as an appetizer or side dish in fine dining restaurants, bistros, and Italian trattorias. It is also a popular choice for seasonal menus during fall and winter when root vegetables are at their peak. The dishs vibrant presentation makes it a favorite for entertaining, often accompanied by freshly baked bread, a light vinaigrette, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to balance the flavors.

Interesting Facts

Burrata translates to buttered in Italian, highlighting its creamy interior that contrasts with a firm mozzarella shell.
Beets were historically used as both food and medicine, believed to improve digestion and purify the blood in ancient European cultures.
The visual contrast of deep red beets and white burrata has made this dish popular for food photography and social media culinary trends.
Some chefs experiment with lightly smoking the beets before roasting to introduce a subtle, savory depth to the dish.
Pairing roasted beets with burrata has inspired similar vegetable-cheese combinations, such as roasted carrots with ricotta or heirloom tomatoes with stracciatella, showing the influence of this simple yet elegant pairing.

FAQ about Roasted Beets and Burrata Recipe

Leftover roasted beets and burrata should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beets can last for up to 3-4 days. However, the burrata is best consumed fresh, as it may lose its creamy texture after refrigeration. If you need to store it, wrap the cheese in plastic wrap and consume within 1-2 days.

Yes, you can prepare the roasted beets ahead of time. Once roasted and peeled, the beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, assemble the dish by adding fresh burrata and balsamic glaze.

While burrata is the preferred cheese for this dish, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese, depending on your preference. However, the creamy texture of burrata is what makes this dish stand out.

After roasting the beets, allow them to cool for about 15 minutes. The skins should peel off easily using your fingers or a paper towel. If the skins are stubborn, you can use a vegetable peeler.

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or canned beets for convenience. However, roasting fresh beets brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Pre-cooked beets might not have the same texture or flavor as freshly roasted ones.

For the best flavor, use a high-quality balsamic glaze. Some glazes are more syrupy and sweet, while others are tangier. You can also make your own balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar with a little sugar until it thickens.

Yes, you can add other roasted vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or even roasted onions. These would complement the sweetness of the beets and the creaminess of the burrata.

This recipe is vegetarian, as it contains burrata, which is made from cow's milk. However, it is not vegan. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cheese that mimics burrata.

To adjust the recipe for a different number of servings, simply scale the amount of ingredients accordingly. The cooking times should remain the same as long as the beets are spaced evenly on the baking sheet. If you're making a larger batch, consider roasting the beets in batches to ensure even cooking.