Elevate your lunch with juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and vibrant basil pesto tucked into rustic ciabatta—for a simple yet elegant Mediterranean delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich perfectly balances creamy and fresh flavors—the luscious burrata melts against tangy tomato slices, while basil pesto and olive oil provide aromatic, herbaceous depth. It’s quick to assemble and ideal for a light, satisfying meal.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 ciabatta roll, halved
- 1 large heirloom tomato, sliced
- 1 ball (approx. 120–125 g) fresh burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
directions
- If desired, lightly toast the ciabatta halves—either under a broiler or in a skillet—for extra crispness.
- Layer tomato slices evenly on the bottom half; season with salt and pepper and drizzle with a touch of olive oil.
- Tear the burrata and distribute it generously over the tomatoes.
- Spoon the basil pesto over the burrata
- Top with fresh basil leaves and place the ciabatta lid on top.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp bread and creamy cheese.
Variations
- Add greens: Toss arugula or baby spinach with a drizzle of balsamic or olive oil and nestle it beneath the burrata .
- Layer in prosciutto: Add thin prosciutto slices for a salty, savory upgrade
- Swap bread: Use focaccia, sourdough, or baguette for different textures
- Roast cherry tomatoes: For richer sweetness, roast cherry tomatoes first and spoon them atop the burrata
storage/reheating
- Refrigerate: Assembled sandwiches are best eaten immediately. If needed, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Add pesto or burrata just before serving to avoid soggy bread.
- Reheating: To refresh texture, lightly toast the assembled sandwich in a skillet or oven (350 °F for 5 minutes) just until warmed. Avoid microwaving, which softens the bread too much.
FAQs
What’s the best burrata to use?
Choose fresh, high-quality burrata (approx. 120 g per sandwich) for the creamiest center—it will melt beautifully without becoming runny .
Do I need to toast the bread?
Toasting is optional but recommended—it adds crunch and prevents the bread from getting soggy from the tomato and burrata
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes—toast and assemble the bread ahead, but add burrata, basil, and pesto just before eating to keep everything fresh .
What can I use instead of basil pesto?
Swap pesto for a light spread of garlic aioli or even a balsamic glaze for a flavor twist .
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free ciabatta or your preferred gluten-free bread as a direct substitute.
Can I add a protein?
Definitely! Prosciutto is classic, or try grilled chicken or turkey slices for a heartier sandwich
What if burrata is unavailable?
Use fresh mozzarella or create a burrata-like spread by combining sliced mozzarella with cream
How do I avoid a soggy sandwich?
Toast the bread first and drain tomato slices on paper towel if they are too juicy
Can this be made vegan?
Use vegan burrata and pesto, and choose plant-based olive oil mayonnaise to replicate the creamy texture.
What drink pairs well?
This sandwich is fantastic with iced lemonade, chilled rosé, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc—complements the fresh Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Simple yet elegant, the Tomato, Burrata & Pesto Ciabatta Sandwich combines fresh, vibrant ingredients for a quick, gourmet lunch. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a delightful homage to Mediterranean cuisine—perfect any time you crave something fresh, creamy, and satisfying.
Print
Tomato, Burrata & Pesto Ciabatta Sandwich
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Assembled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and elegant Mediterranean sandwich featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and fragrant basil pesto on rustic ciabatta bread.
Ingredients
- 1 ciabatta roll, halved
- 1 large heirloom tomato, sliced
- 1 ball fresh burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the ciabatta roll and toast lightly if desired.
- Layer tomato slices evenly on the bottom half.
- Tear the burrata and distribute it generously over the tomatoes.
- Spoon basil pesto over the burrata.
- Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with a touch of olive oil.
- Top with fresh basil leaves and close with the top half of the roll.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use the freshest heirloom tomatoes available for best flavor.
- Toasted ciabatta adds extra texture and warmth.
- Best enjoyed immediately to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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