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There’s something irresistible about the combination of warm, crisp flatbread, creamy burrata, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the fragrant depth of basil pesto. This Cherry Tomato and Burrata Flatbread with Basil Pesto is the perfect marriage of freshness and indulgence, simple yet elevated, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch, an impressive appetizer, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

Imagine pulling a golden, slightly charred flatbread out of the oven, the aroma of baked dough mingling with the herbaceous scent of pesto. The vibrant cherry tomatoes, softened from roasting, burst with sweetness in every bite, while the burrata, creamy and rich, melts luxuriously over the warm crust. A final drizzle of balsamic glaze and a scattering of fresh basil leaves complete this restaurant-worthy dish.

This flatbread is versatile enough to be adapted with different toppings, and the process is beginner-friendly. Whether you’re making your own dough or using store-bought naan or flatbread, this recipe delivers on both flavor and presentation. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Flatbread

1. A Balance of Freshness and Indulgence

The key to this flatbread’s deliciousness is its contrast of textures and flavors. The crisp, slightly chewy base provides the perfect foundation for the creamy burrata, the bright acidity of cherry tomatoes, and the herby punch of basil pesto.

2. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor

While this dish looks fancy, it comes together in under 30 minutes. Using a pre-made flatbread or pizza dough saves time, and simple toppings mean minimal prep.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

This flatbread is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party yet simple enough to whip up for a quick, satisfying meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch, or cut it into smaller pieces as an appetizer.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

The beauty of this flatbread is that it relies on high-quality ingredients. Since the toppings are minimal, each component shines. Here’s what to look for when selecting ingredients:

Flatbread or Pizza Dough

Best option: Fresh homemade pizza dough or high-quality store-bought pizza dough.
Quick alternative: Store-bought flatbread, naan, or lavash for a thinner, crispier base.

Burrata

Look for fresh burrata, which consists of a soft mozzarella shell filled with creamy stracciatella. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of the tomatoes and the herbaceous pesto.
Substitutes: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can work, though they won’t have the same creamy texture.

Cherry Tomatoes

Choose ripe, sweet cherry or grape tomatoes. Look for vibrant colors and firm texture.
Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and brings out deep, caramelized notes.

Basil Pesto

Homemade pesto is best and takes only minutes to make. It consists of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil.
If using store-bought pesto, go for a refrigerated, fresh version rather than jarred pesto, which often contains preservatives that dull the flavor.

Balsamic Glaze

A drizzle of balsamic glaze (reduced balsamic vinegar) adds a hint of sweetness and tang that balances the dish beautifully.

Olive Oil & Seasonings

Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling.
A pinch of sea salt, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat) enhances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Flatbread

Ingredients

For the Flatbread

1 flatbread (naan, lavash, or store-bought pizza crust)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Pesto (if making homemade)

1 cup fresh basil leaves
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
1 clove garlic
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice

For Assembly

1 ball of burrata cheese (about 4 oz)
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes on a baking sheet.
Roast for 10-12 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto (If Making Fresh)

In a food processor, blend basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until combined.
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake the Flatbread

Place the flatbread on a baking sheet. Brush it with a little olive oil for extra crispness.
Spread a thin layer of pesto over the surface.
Scatter the roasted cherry tomatoes on top.
Bake for 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C), just until the edges are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Add Burrata & Finishing Touches

Remove the flatbread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Gently tear the burrata and place it over the warm flatbread.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
Slice and serve immediately!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This flatbread pairs beautifully with:

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
A light soup, such as tomato basil or gazpacho.

Storage & Reheating

While best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the crust again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the flatbread soggy.

Variations & Customizations

Add protein: Top with prosciutto, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta.
Go vegetarian: Swap out burrata for whipped ricotta or dairy-free cheese.
Spice it up: Drizzle with hot honey or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flatbread or cauliflower crust.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Tomato and Burrata Flatbread with Basil Pesto is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, crispy, and herby bite!