pin it
I absolutely adore this recipe because it captures everything I love about Italian cuisine - simplicity, quality ingredients, and incredible flavor combinations. The first time I made these crostini, I was skeptical about the peach and prosciutto pairing, but one bite completely changed my mind. The way the sweet, juicy peaches complement the salty, savory prosciutto is nothing short of genius. The burrata adds this luxurious creaminess that ties everything together, while the fresh basil provides that aromatic finish. What I love most is how the textures play together - the crunch of the toasted bread, the smoothness of the cheese, the delicate chew of the prosciutto, and the soft sweetness of the peaches. It's like a symphony in your mouth, and every component is essential to the overall experience.
Why I love this recipe
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it represents the essence of effortless entertaining. There's something so satisfying about creating something that looks incredibly sophisticated but requires minimal cooking skills. I love how versatile it is - perfect for a fancy dinner party or a casual weekend brunch. The visual appeal never fails to impress guests, and the flavor combination is both familiar and surprising. What really gets me excited is how this recipe celebrates the beauty of seasonal ingredients. When peaches are at their peak ripeness and burrata is perfectly creamy, this dish becomes transcendent. I also appreciate how forgiving it is - if your peaches are a bit firm, they still work beautifully, and if your burrata is slightly past its prime, it's still delicious. This recipe taught me that the best dishes often come from the simplest combinations.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Rustic bread: slice into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- Burrata cheese: tear into generous chunks
- Prosciutto: separate slices carefully
- Fresh peaches: slice into thin wedges
- Fresh basil: pick leaves and keep whole
- Extra virgin olive oil: use for brushing and drizzling
Let's Make These Together
- Toast the bread perfectly
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and brush each bread slice with olive oil on both sides. Toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. The key is achieving that perfect crunch that will hold up to the toppings.
- Prepare fresh ingredients
- While the bread is toasting, slice your ripe peaches into thin wedges and pat them dry. Tear the burrata into generous, rustic chunks. The irregular shapes add to the artisanal appeal of this dish.
- Layer with care
- Start with the burrata as your base, gently spreading it while it's still cool. Drape the prosciutto naturally over the cheese, then arrange the peach slices with slight overlaps for the best visual presentation.
- Finish with flair
- Top with fresh basil leaves, drizzle with your best olive oil, and season with freshly cracked black pepper and a touch of sea salt. Serve immediately while the bread is still crispy.
pin it
Switch Things Up
I first discovered this combination during a summer trip to Tuscany, where a local chef served similar crostini at a small trattoria. The way the burrata melted slightly from the warmth of the toasted bread, combined with the perfectly ripe peaches, was absolutely magical. Now, whenever peach season arrives, I find myself craving these little bites of heaven. I love experimenting with different bread types - sometimes sourdough, sometimes ciabatta - but the key is always that perfect toast level. The prosciutto should be paper-thin and draped elegantly over the cheese. I've made these for countless dinner parties, and they disappear within minutes every single time.
Perfect Pairings
These crostini pair beautifully with a crisp Prosecco or a light Pinot Grigio that won't overpower the delicate flavors. For a complete antipasti spread, serve alongside marinated olives, fresh mozzarella with tomatoes, and a selection of cured meats. They also complement arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette perfectly, or can be served as a starter before a simple pasta dish with fresh herbs.
pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
It's best to serve these immediately after assembly to maintain the bread's crispiness. However, you can toast the bread and prepare ingredients up to 2 hours in advance, then assemble just before serving.
- → What can I substitute for burrata cheese?
Fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese work well as substitutes. For a vegan option, try cashew cream cheese or vegan mozzarella, though the texture will be different.
- → How do I choose the perfect peaches?
Look for peaches that give slightly to gentle pressure but aren't overly soft. They should have a sweet aroma at the stem end and vibrant color. Avoid peaches with green undertones.
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette slices work beautifully. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to support the toppings and toasts well.
- → What wine pairs best with these crostini?
A crisp Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors perfectly. For red wine lovers, a light Chianti or Pinot Noir works well too.
Conclusion
This burrata peach crostini represents the perfect harmony of Italian flavors and summer freshness. The combination of creamy cheese, salty meat, and sweet fruit creates an unforgettable appetizer that's both elegant and approachable. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual evening, these crostini will elevate any occasion. The beauty lies in its simplicity - quality ingredients that speak for themselves.