Green Beans with Burrata
Green Beans with Burrata is a fresh, elegant side dish that perfectly balances crisp vegetables with rich, creamy cheese. It’s a dish that captures the essence of simple, high-quality ingredients tender green beans, silky burrata, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze. Inspired by Italian farm-to-table cooking, it’s light, flavorful, and visually stunning, making it just as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for a festive gathering.
Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
This Green Beans with Burrata recipe stands out for its simplicity and sophistication. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 20 minutes. The combination of crisp green beans, creamy burrata, and bright dressing makes it perfect for summer meals, brunch tables, or holiday sides. It’s proof that fresh produce and good cheese can turn into magic on a plate.
All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 oz)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic glaze
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pine nuts
- Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
- Optional: a sprinkle of chili flakes or flaky salt
Time Needed to Make This Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
Special Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium pot
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Serving platter
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Green Beans with Burrata
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep the color vibrant. Drain well.
Step 2: Sauté or Grill for Flavor
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the blanched beans and toss for 1–2 minutes until lightly charred or glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the warm green beans on a serving platter. Place the burrata ball in the center (or tear into pieces for easier serving). Drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic glaze, and a touch of honey if desired.
Step 4: Finish with Crunch and Herbs
Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts over the top and garnish with fresh basil or mint. Add a pinch of chili flakes or flaky salt for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. Present on a rustic plate or shallow bowl so the burrata sits beautifully in the center. Pair with crusty bread to scoop up the creamy cheese and dressing. It complements roasted meats, grilled fish, or pasta dishes wonderfully.
Extra Tips for Best Results
Use fresh, firm green beans for the best texture. Don’t overcook them—they should stay crisp and bright. For extra richness, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil just before serving. If you prefer a tangier touch, replace honey with a spoon of pesto or lemon zest.
Variations You Can Try
- Tomato Twist: Add halved cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with crispy breadcrumbs or seeds.
- Herby Upgrade: Mix in fresh dill or parsley for a garden-fresh aroma.
FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About Green Beans with Burrata
Q1: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes, but blanch them briefly and dry well before sautéing to avoid sogginess.
Q2: What is burrata cheese?
A: It’s a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream soft and creamy inside.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Blanch the beans ahead, but add burrata and dressing just before serving.
Q4: Can I serve it cold?
A: Yes, it tastes delicious chilled or at room temperature.
Q5: What’s the best dressing?
A: A drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, or balsamic glaze works beautifully.
Q6: Can I grill the beans instead?
A: Absolutely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor.
Q7: What nuts work best?
A: Almonds, pine nuts, or hazelnuts give a perfect crunch.
Q8: Can I replace burrata with something else?
A: Fresh mozzarella or ricotta works as a substitute, though it’s less creamy.
Q9: How long does burrata last once opened?
A: Consume within 1–2 days for the best flavor and texture.
Q10: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes use a dairy-free soft cheese or drizzle extra olive oil and herbs instead.
Conclusion
Green Beans with Burrata is a fresh, elegant, and effortless dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. With the creamy burrata melting over crisp beans and a bright drizzle of lemon or balsamic, it’s simple sophistication on a plate. Perfect for brunches, dinners, or light summer meals, it’s a recipe that always impresses with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Print
Green Beans with Burrata
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light, elegant dish combining crisp green beans, creamy burrata, and bright flavors for a fresh Italian-inspired side.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 oz)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic glaze
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pine nuts
- Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
- Optional: chili flakes or flaky salt
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to an ice bath, then drain well.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add blanched green beans and sauté for 1–2 minutes until lightly charred. Season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange green beans on a serving platter. Place burrata in the center or tear it into smaller pieces.
- Drizzle with lemon juice or balsamic glaze and honey if using.
- Top with toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and optionally, chili flakes or flaky salt.
Notes
- Use the freshest green beans for best texture and color.
- Don’t skip the ice bath to keep the beans crisp and bright.
- High-quality olive oil or balsamic adds rich flavor depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: green beans, burrata, Italian side dish, vegetarian, summer salad
