If summer had a flavor, it would be this Open-Face Tomato & Burrata Sandwich—ripe, juicy tomatoes paired with luxuriously creamy burrata, all resting on toasted rustic bread. It’s fresh, light, and elegant, yet so easy to make. This fresh tomato sandwich is ideal for a quick lunch, brunch with friends, or even a simple weeknight dinner.
In just 10 minutes, you can transform seasonal produce into a restaurant-worthy dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how to make this Italian-inspired favorite and why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Open-Face Tomato & Burrata Sandwich
- Fresh & Seasonal: Perfect for showcasing juicy summer tomatoes.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes—no complicated cooking required.
- Versatile: Works as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
- Elegant & Instagram-Worthy: Rustic bread, colorful tomatoes, and silky burrata look stunning together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the best results, choose the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find.
- Rustic bread – Sourdough or Italian ciabatta works beautifully.
- Burrata cheese – Soft, creamy, and decadent.
- Ripe tomatoes – Heirloom or cherry tomatoes for maximum sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and enhances flavor.
- Fresh basil – Bright, aromatic, and classically Italian.
- Salt & black pepper – To season and bring flavors to life.
- (Optional) Balsamic glaze – For a sweet, tangy finish.
💡 Pro Tip: If burrata isn’t available, use fresh mozzarella for a similar creamy effect
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
- Slice rustic bread about ½-inch thick.
- Lightly brush with olive oil and toast until golden on both sides—either in a skillet, oven, or grill pan.
2. Slice the Tomatoes
- If using heirloom tomatoes, cut into thick slices.
- For cherry tomatoes, halve or quarter them for bite-sized freshness.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
- Place toasted bread on a plate.
- Gently tear the burrata open and spread evenly over the bread.
- Layer tomatoes on top, slightly overlapping.
4. Season & Garnish
Why This Sandwich Works
This easy summer sandwich is a flavor powerhouse:
- The toasted bread gives a warm, crunchy base.
- The creamy burrata adds richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh basil ties everything together with a fragrant herbal note.
It’s essentially a more indulgent cousin of the classic bruschetta, but with the soft luxury of burrata.
Variations & Swaps
- Mediterranean Twist: Add roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of oregano.
- Protein Boost: Top with prosciutto for a salty, savory addition.
- Vegan Version: Swap burrata for a creamy cashew-based cheese alternative.
- Garlic Bread Base: Rub toasted bread with fresh garlic before adding toppings for an extra punch.
Nutrition Benefits
This sandwich is not only delicious but also nutrient-rich:
- Tomatoes – Packed with vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Burrata – A good source of protein and calcium.
- Olive Oil – Heart-healthy fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
For more on the health benefits of olive oil, visit the Olive Oil Times health guide.
Serving Suggestions
The Open-Face Tomato & Burrata Sandwich shines as:
- A light lunch served with a mixed green salad.
- A shareable appetizer for dinner parties.
- A refreshing weekend brunch paired with iced tea or Prosecco.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Best enjoyed fresh—tomatoes can make bread soggy if assembled too early.
- Prep elements separately: toast bread ahead, slice tomatoes, and store burrata in its liquid until serving.
- If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
The Open-Face Tomato & Burrata Sandwich is proof that simple ingredients, when fresh and thoughtfully paired, can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick solo lunch or serving it to guests, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.
With the creamy richness of burrata, the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the crunch of toasted bread, every bite feels like summer on a plate.