This Creamy Walnut Pesto Burrata Toast is a delicious mix of creamy burrata cheese and rich walnut pesto spread on crispy toast. It’s fresh, tasty, and perfect for any time of day!
Honestly, who can resist the joy of melted burrata drizzled with a bit of olive oil? I love making this when I want a quick snack or an easy appetizer. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Basil: Fresh basil is key to a vibrant pesto. If you can’t find it, you might try using spinach or arugula for a different twist, but it won’t have the same flavor.
Walnuts: These nuts give the pesto its hearty texture. If you’re allergic or prefer a different taste, pine nuts or almonds work as great alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to your pesto. You could substitute it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Burrata: The creamy texture of burrata is what makes this recipe special. If burrata is hard to find, fresh mozzarella can be a good substitute, though it’s not as creamy.
Crusty Bread: Sourdough or ciabatta are fantastic choices. You could also use whole grain bread or gluten-free options if needed, just make sure it’s hearty enough to hold the toppings.
What’s the Best Way to Make Walnut Pesto?
Creating the perfect walnut pesto is simple but requires a few steps for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a clean food processor. Add your fresh basil, walnuts, Parmesan, and garlic.
- Pulse the mixture until it’s coarsely chopped. It shouldn’t be too fine; you want some texture.
- While the processor runs, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps emulsify the ingredients, making a smooth paste.
- Don’t forget to taste it! Add salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
Using fresh ingredients is key here. You can adjust the garlic to your liking. Just remember, the pesto can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for quick meals!
Creamy Walnut Pesto Burrata Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Walnut Pesto:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toast:
- 4 slices of crusty bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)
- 2 burrata balls (about 4-6 oz total)
- Optional: Lemon zest or cherry tomatoes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time. It’s quick enough for a tasty lunch or appetizer. Just pop the toast in the oven, blend the pesto, and you’re ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Walnut Pesto:
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse until everything is coarsely chopped. The mix should look vibrant and a little chunky!
2. Blend in Olive Oil:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps create a smooth pesto. Keep blending until you reach your desired consistency, then add salt and pepper to taste. Give it a little taste test and adjust as needed. Set your lovely pesto aside!
3. Prepare the Toast:
Next, it’s time to toast the bread! Place your slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven (or use a toaster) until they’re golden and crispy. The crunch here really compliments the creamy toppings!
4. Assemble the Toast:
Spread a generous amount of the walnut pesto on each slice of toast. Don’t be shy, this is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Add the Burrata:
Tear the burrata balls gently with your hands and place creamy pieces on top of the pesto spread. Allow the luscious cheese to ooze a bit; that’s the magic!
6. Final Touches:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the assembled toasts and add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick. This small step makes a big difference!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a touch of brightness and extra flavor, you can optionally garnish with lemon zest or halved cherry tomatoes. Then, it’s time to serve! Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, and flavorful burrata toasts right away!
This delightful toast works wonderfully as a quick lunch or a charming appetizer. The combination of creamy burrata and nutty walnut pesto is simply irresistible!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Nuts Besides Walnuts?
Absolutely! If you want to mix things up, try using pine nuts, almonds, or pecans instead of walnuts. Each nut will give the pesto a slightly different flavor, so choose one that you love!
How Should I Store Leftover Pesto?
Any leftover walnut pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent it from browning, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing the container. Just stir it before using again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Sure! To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it altogether. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What Bread Works Best for This Toast?
A crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta is ideal because it holds up well under the toppings. However, you can also use whole grain bread or gluten-free bread if you prefer. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to support the weight of the toppings!
