If you are someone who loves exploring fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite, then you are going to fall in love with this Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Garnishes Recipe. Imagine a colorful array of thick heirloom tomato slices, each topped thoughtfully with creamy burrata, tangy pickles, spicy honey drizzle, and more—creating a mesmerizing palette of tastes and textures that celebrate the best summer produce. This recipe is a joyful invitation to savor tomatoes like never before, combining simple ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and refreshingly easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet absolutely essential to making this dish shine. Each one plays a unique role—whether it’s bringing creamy richness, bright acidity, vibrant green freshness, or a hint of spicy sweetness—helping to create that perfect tasting flight experience.
- 2 heirloom tomatoes: Thick, juicy rounds are the star of the show and provide beautiful color and natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons burrata: Adds luscious creaminess with just the right hint of milky softness.
- 1 tablespoon pesto: Brings herbaceous depth and a burst of basil flavor to the flight.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese: Provides a mild tangy base, perfect for pairing with savory toppings.
- 1 slice deli turkey breast: Delivers a subtle savory element for contrast.
- 3 slices bread and butter pickles: Offer bright, sweet tang to awaken the palate.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (divided): Adds silky richness and helps meld flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Lends fresh acidity to balance the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt: Enhances and intensifies all the other flavors.
- 3 pieces baby arugula: Peppery greens that add a lovely bite and visual interest.
- 1 slice mozzarella: Creamy and mild, the perfect cheese partner to tomato.
- 1/4 teaspoon balsamic glaze: Offers sweet, tangy complexity with a beautiful sheen.
- 3 leaves basil: Fresh and aromatic herbs that bring vibrancy and bright notes.
- 3 tablespoons cottage cheese: Adds a fresh texture and subtle creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Sweetens and complements spicy or salty toppings.
- Pinch red pepper flakes: Introduces a touch of gentle heat to awaken the senses.
- 1/2 baby cucumber (thinly sliced): Crisp and refreshing for contrast.
- 1/2 tablespoon crumbly feta cheese: Sharp and salty, perfectly balanced with cucumber.
- 3 kalamata olives (sliced): Intense and briny, giving a punch of savory depth.
How to Make Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Garnishes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Base
Begin by slicing your heirloom tomatoes into thick, even rounds and laying six slices out on a large cutting board or serving plate. This sets the stage for your tasting flight by giving each round plenty of space to shine individually.
Step 2: Burrata Meets Pesto
On one tomato slice, spread a generous tablespoon of burrata, then spoon a layer of pesto on top. Use the back of your spoon to gently swirl the pesto into the burrata, creating a creamy, herbaceous blend that’s irresistible.
Step 3: Cream Cheese, Turkey and Pickles
Next, take another tomato slice and spread it with cream cheese. Layer a slice of deli turkey breast and top it with bread and butter pickles. This combo brings a wonderful sweet-savory balance and a playful crunch from the pickles.
Step 4: Olive Oil, Lemon, Sea Salt and Arugula
Drizzle one teaspoon of olive oil and the lemon juice over a fresh tomato slice. Sprinkle on some flaky sea salt and top with peppery baby arugula. This simple step creates a bright and peppery bite with an acidic kick.
Step 5: Mozzarella, Oil, Balsamic, and Basil
Place a slice of fresh mozzarella on the next tomato round. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and a few drops of balsamic glaze over the top. Finish it boldly with the fresh basil leaves to add floral notes and freshness.
Step 6: Cottage Cheese with Honey and Red Pepper Flakes
Spoon cottage cheese on the tomato slice, then drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness. Finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes to create a warm contrast that dances on your tongue.
Step 7: Cucumber, Feta, and Olive Finish
On your final tomato slice, arrange thin cucumber slices and sprinkle with crumbly feta cheese. Top it all off with sliced kalamata olives for a briny, salty finish that complements the cool cucumber perfectly.
How to Serve Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Garnishes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil and microgreens are wonderful garnishes to add just before serving. A few drops of extra virgin olive oil or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the dish’s natural flavors further and add that gourmet touch that everyone will notice.
Side Dishes
This tasting flight pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a bowl of mixed greens lightly dressed in lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve alongside grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal that complements the lightness of the tomato course.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the tomato rounds on a rustic wooden board or in a long row on a platter to showcase the visual variety. Using small individual plates makes it feel like a tasting menu. For a party, label each tomato slice with its unique topping to invite guests to savor and compare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh tomato base and creamy elements, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
This dish is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh texture of tomatoes and dairy components like burrata and cream cheese, which will change unpleasantly after thawing.
Reheating
This is a no-cook recipe meant to be enjoyed fresh, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, plan to prepare just what you need to serve for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirlooms?
While you can use regular tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes bring a unique sweetness, color, and texture that really make this tasting flight special. If heirlooms aren’t available, look for the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find.
Is burrata necessary or can I substitute it?
Burrata adds an indulgently creamy texture that’s hard to replace, but fresh mozzarella or cream cheese can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will be slightly different.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales beautifully. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and arrange the tomato slices on larger platters to wow your guests.
What if I don’t have pesto on hand?
If you don’t have pesto, you can swap it with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil, pesto made from other herbs like cilantro, or even a smear of tapenade for a different flavor profile.
How do I choose the best heirloom tomatoes?
Look for tomatoes that are heavy for their size, with vibrant colors and a slight give when gently pressed. Avoid any with blemishes or overly soft spots to ensure the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Garnishes Recipe is such a joyous way to celebrate fresh summer produce and impress friends with little effort. Trust me, once you try this playful, colorful dish, it will become a beloved staple for sunny afternoons and casual dinners. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the toppings—each slice is a tiny adventure on your plate. Go ahead, slice up those heirlooms and enjoy a tasting flight bursting with flavor and charm!
Print
Heirloom Tomato Tasting Flight with Burrata, Pesto, and Fresh Garnishes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and refreshing heirloom tomato flight featuring six unique tomato rounds adorned with diverse toppings such as creamy burrata and pesto, savory deli turkey with pickles, fresh mozzarella with balsamic glaze, and more. This no-cook dish offers a delightful range of flavors and textures perfect for a light appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Tomato Bases
- 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
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare Tomato Slices: Place six thick tomato slices onto a large cutting board or plate, arranging them for easy topping.
- Burrata and Pesto Topping: Spread the burrata cheese onto one tomato slice. Add the pesto on top, then use a spoon to gently swirl and combine the flavors.
- Cream Cheese, Turkey, and Pickles: Spread cream cheese evenly on another tomato slice. Top with a slice of deli turkey breast and layer the bread and butter pickles over it.
- Olive Oil, Lemon, and Arugula: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the lemon juice onto a tomato slice. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and place baby arugula on top to enhance freshness.
- Mozzarella and Balsamic Glaze: Put a slice of mozzarella on a tomato round. Drizzle with the remaining teaspoon of olive oil and balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Cottage Cheese, Honey, and Red Pepper Flakes: Spoon cottage cheese onto a tomato slice. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Cucumber, Feta, and Olives: Add thinly sliced baby cucumber to a tomato slice. Top with crumbly feta cheese and sliced kalamata olives for a salty, tangy finish.
Notes
- This recipe is no-cook and ideal for quick assembly with fresh ingredients.
- Use ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of honey and red pepper flakes based on your preferred sweetness and heat.
- Serve immediately to prevent the tomatoes from releasing too much juice.
- Can be served as an appetizer or a light snack for 2-3 people.
