Burrata and Roasted Eggplant Tower
This dish layers silky roasted eggplant with creamy burrata, fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The “tower” presentation makes it perfect for entertaining — a beautiful appetizer or light main course with restaurant-style flair.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4 as appetizer, 2 as main
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants (sliced into ½-inch rounds)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 burrata balls (about 4 oz / 125 g each)
2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced into rounds)
½ cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduction)
Flaky sea salt (to finish)
Instructions
1. Roast the Eggplant
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt & pepper.
Roast 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and tender.
2. Assemble the Tower
Place a roasted eggplant slice as the base.
Add a tomato slice, a basil leaf, and a small piece of burrata.
Repeat layers (eggplant → tomato → basil → burrata) until you have a neat stack, finishing with burrata on top.
Secure with a skewer or cocktail stick if needed.
3. Garnish & Serve
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
Sprinkle with pine nuts and flaky sea salt.
Garnish with extra basil leaves.
Serve immediately while eggplant is still warm and burrata is creamy.
Notes & Tips
For extra depth: grill the eggplant instead of roasting.
Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet-savory kick.
Serve with crusty bread or crostini to scoop up the creamy burrata.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can roast the eggplant in advance, but assemble just before serving so the burrata stays fresh.
Q: What if I don’t have burrata?
Fresh mozzarella or whipped ricotta works beautifully.
Q: Can it be served cold?
Yes! It’s delicious chilled as a summer appetizer, but burrata is best at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 19 g
Carbs: 16 g
Fiber: 5 g