Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter Recipe

There is something irresistibly charming about serving a Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter whenever friends gather or when you want to impress with minimal effort. This delightful dish perfectly balances creamy burrata, crisp and juicy pear slices, crunchy toasted walnuts, and just a hint of sweetness from honey. It’s a gorgeous medley of textures and flavors that makes for an elegant appetizer or snack. Whether it’s an intimate evening at home or a lively dinner party, the Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter is always a crowd-pleaser that looks as inviting as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the beauty of this Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter. Each plays a crucial role: the pears add crisp freshness and natural sweetness; burrata lends a rich, creamy contrast; toasted walnuts bring a nutty crunch; and the honey ties everything together with a sweet glaze. Plus, the arugula and lemon zest add those little bursts of color and zing that lift the whole experience.

• 2 ripe but firm pears, sliced: Firmness ensures beautiful slices that hold shape and texture.
• 2 balls burrata cheese (about 8 oz / 225g total): Extra creamy and soft, burrata is the star that melts in your mouth.
• ½ cup toasted walnuts: Toasting enhances their nutty aroma and adds satisfying crunch.
• 2 tbsp honey or hot honey: A drizzle of sweetness that complements the cheese and fruit perfectly.
• 1 small handful fresh arugula: Adds a peppery, slightly bitter green note for balance.
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional): Brings a bright, citrusy freshness to the platter.
• Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving: Perfect vehicles for scooping and enjoying every bite.
• Optional garnishes – fresh thyme leaves, cracked black pepper, balsamic glaze: These elevate the look and flavor beautifully.

How to Make Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

Start with washing your pears carefully and then slice them thinly, keeping the skin on. The skin not only adds gorgeous color but also contributes a pleasant texture contrast. Using ripe but firm pears is key here because they’ll hold their shape and provide just the right amount of juiciness and sweetness without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

Toasting walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes releases their full, nutty flavor. Stir frequently to avoid burning and stop once you notice a toasty aroma and light browning. Let the walnuts cool down before adding them to the platter to keep their crunch intact.

Step 3: Arrange the Platter

Find a nice serving board or plate and place the burrata balls right in the center. Then, artistically arrange the pear slices, toasted walnuts, and fresh arugula around the cheese. Drizzle the honey generously over both the burrata and pears. At this stage, you can sprinkle lemon zest along with fresh thyme leaves or a little cracked black pepper if you want to add some herbal and spicy notes.

Step 4: Serve with Bread

Surround your platter with crunchy crackers or slices of fresh baguette. These are essential for scooping up the luscious burrata and toppings, turning every bite into a perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and fresh flavors. For an extra touch, a gentle drizzle of balsamic glaze adds beautiful color and a tangy sweetness that deepens the flavor profile.

How to Serve Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves scatter delicate herbal aromas, while cracked black pepper offers a subtle heat that cuts through the creamy burrata. A drizzle of balsamic glaze not only adds a glossy finish but deepens the flavor contrast, making the entire platter visually stunning and incredibly moreish.

Side Dishes

This Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a simple mixed greens salad or a vibrant beet and citrus salad. For a heartier meal, include Spanish-style patatas bravas or a bowl of marinated olives to keep the tapas theme going strong and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

You can elevate the presentation by serving individual portions in small wooden boards or shallow bowls, allowing each guest their own perfectly curated combination. Alternatively, layering pear slices and burrata on crostini with walnuts sprinkled on top makes for elegant finger food that’s easy to enjoy at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Pears may release some juice, so keep the burrata separate if possible. Consume within 1 to 2 days for best freshness and texture, as the cheese can weep and the pears soften over time.

Freezing

Freezing this Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter is not recommended because fresh pears and burrata both have delicate textures that do not freeze well. Burrata especially tends to become grainy after freezing and thawing.

Reheating

Since this platter is best served fresh and at room temperature, avoid reheating to maintain the creamy texture of the burrata and the crispness of the pears and walnuts. If chilled, take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors come alive again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! While toasted walnuts add a wonderful texture and flavor, pecans or almonds can be excellent substitutes, providing their own unique crunch and nutty tones that complement the burrata and pears nicely.

What type of pears work best for this tapas platter?

Firmer varieties like Bosc or Anjou are ideal because they slice well and hold their texture without becoming mushy, allowing the sweetness and juiciness to shine alongside the creamy burrata.

Is burrata cheese easy to find?

Yes, burrata has become widely available at many grocery stores, especially those with a good cheese section or specialty cheese shops. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella can work but won’t have quite the same creamy center.

Can I make this platter vegan?

You can create a similar vibe by replacing burrata with a vegan creamy cheese alternative, though the texture will differ. The combination of pear, walnuts, honey (or agave syrup for vegan), and fresh greens still makes for a tasty dish.

How long can I prepare this platter before guests arrive?

It’s best to assemble the Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter about 30 minutes before serving to maintain the fresh and vibrant textures, especially of the pears and arugula, ensuring the platter looks and tastes perfect.

Final Thoughts

This Pear with Walnut Burrata Tapas Platter is one of those simple yet show-stopping dishes that you’ll reach for time and again. Its combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and peppery elements creates a symphony of flavors that feels both sophisticated and warmly inviting. Give it a try at your next gathering — you’ll love how effortlessly it turns any occasion into something special!

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