Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle Recipe
If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements all in one beautiful presentation, the Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle is an absolute showstopper. This recipe brings together luscious roasted pears, creamy burrata cheese, crunchy roasted nuts, and a glossy maple balsamic drizzle that ties everything together with a gentle tangy sweetness. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or simply want to elevate your afternoon snack, this board is effortless to assemble yet impressively delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, contributing texture, flavor, and eye appeal. From the juicy warmth of roasted pears to the fresh punch of herbs, each addition creates harmony on the board.
- 2 ripe pears, halved and cored: Look for pears that are firm but slightly soft to the touch for optimal roasting and sweetness.
- 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese: This creamy cheese is the star, adding softness and richness that pairs perfectly with the fruit.
- ¼ cup roasted pecans or walnuts: Adds delightful crunch and a toasty depth that contrasts with the creaminess.
- ¼ cup fresh figs or grapes (optional): Provides bursts of natural sweetness and beautiful pops of color on the board.
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices: Essential for scooping up the cheese and pears, bringing a satisfying crisp texture.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup: This natural sweetener enhances the flavor of the balsamic mirror and complements the roasted fruit.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds a balanced tang that accentuates the richness of burrata and the pears.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Helps emulsify the drizzle for a silky finish.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs: Bright green herbs that add an aromatic, fresh note and enhance presentation.
- Flaky sea salt: To sprinkle over and highlight all the flavors perfectly by adding bursts of seasoning.
How to Make Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle
Step 1: Roast the Pears
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the halved and cored pears on a baking sheet, cut side facing up. Roast these for about 15 to 20 minutes until they become tender and show beautiful caramelization at the edges. This roasting step will intensify their natural sweetness, making them irresistibly juicy and perfect for the board.
Step 2: Prepare the Maple Balsamic Drizzle
While the pears are roasting, mix together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until you get a luscious, glossy mixture that will bring a sweet yet tangy finish to your board.
Step 3: Assemble the Board
Once the pears are out of the oven, arrange them on a serving board. Nestle the creamy burrata cheese nearby, along with the roasted nuts and fresh figs or grapes if you’re using them. Add crackers or toasted baguette slices to the edges of your board to complete the arrangement.
Step 4: Drizzle and Garnish
Generously drizzle the prepared maple balsamic mixture over both the pears and the burrata. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the whole board and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for that vibrant, herbaceous touch that serves not only as a flavor boost but also as beautiful decoration.
How to Serve Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle
Garnishes
Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs are more than a garnish here; they lend an herbal aroma that pairs unbelievably well with the sweet and creamy flavors. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out the richness of the burrata and the sweetness of the roasted pears, balancing every bite perfectly. Consider adding a few edible flowers or a dusting of crushed black pepper for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle shines as an appetizer or light meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of mixed olives can make your meal feel more complete and sophisticated. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with fresh lemon complements the flavors excellently without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make this board truly unforgettable. Use a rustic wooden board for a cozy, farm-to-table vibe or choose an elegant marble slab for a modern feel. Experiment by adding small bowls with honey, fig jam, or even a few slices of aged prosciutto around the edges to infuse more variety and visual interest. The more colorful and textured your arrangement, the more inviting it becomes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers from your Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle, wrap the cheese separately in parchment or plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the roasted pears in a separate sealed container. Nuts and crackers should remain dry and stored in airtight jars to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish because burrata’s creamy texture and fresh herbs will not hold up well once thawed, and the pears may become mushy. Fresh enjoyment is the best way to savor the full flavors and textures of this particular board.
Reheating
If you want to warm up the roasted pears after storing, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes, just until slightly warmed. Avoid microwaving to prevent the pears from becoming overly soft and watery. Burrata is best served room temperature or chilled, so keep it separate from reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of burrata?
While burrata is ideal because of its creamy, milky texture, you can substitute fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a lighter texture. Just remember that the flavor and creaminess won’t be quite the same, but the board will still be delicious.
Are there alternatives to maple syrup for the drizzle?
If you want to try a different sweetness profile, honey or agave nectar can work well in place of maple syrup. Each will add a unique floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with balsamic vinegar.
Can I prepare the board in advance for a party?
Definitely prepare the components a few hours ahead of time except for assembling the board and drizzling the sauce. Assemble right before serving to keep the crackers crisp and the herbs fresh.
What type of pears work best for roasting?
Bartlett or Bosc pears are fabulous for roasting because they hold their shape well and develop wonderful caramelized notes when cooked. Avoid overly ripe pears that may become mushy during roasting.
Is this board suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! The Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle is vegetarian-friendly, featuring fresh fruit, cheese, nuts, and herbs—all plant-based except the dairy, which is vegetarian by most standards.
Final Thoughts
There is something so effortlessly elegant about the Roasted Pear & Burrata Board with Maple Balsamic Drizzle that makes it a reliable recipe to keep on hand for any occasion. It’s simple enough to prepare in minutes yet satisfying and sophisticated enough to impress your guests or simply spruce up an everyday meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy the flavors of fall and beyond.
