If you’re craving an appetizer that’s as easy as it is elegant, look no further than a Burrata and Salami Platter—the ultimate crowd-pleaser for dinner parties, date nights, or cozy evenings in. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to make the perfect platter, from ingredient selection to styling tips, wine pairings, and even nutrition advice.
Whether you’re a charcuterie enthusiast or hosting your first soirée, this guide will elevate your hosting game—no kitchen degree required.
🧠 1. Why Burrata and Salami Work So Well Together
Burrata and salami aren’t just delicious—they’re textural and flavor soulmates. The creamy, mild richness of burrata perfectly complements the savory, sometimes spicy bite of thinly sliced salami. It’s a balance of softness, saltiness, and spice that satisfies every part of your palate.
Burrata = silky, creamy, indulgent
Salami = bold, cured, slightly peppery
Together = pure appetizer harmony 🧀🥓
🛒 2. Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple but high-quality:
- 1 fresh burrata ball (4–6 oz)
- 6–8 slices of Italian salami (Genoa, Soppressata, or Calabrese)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Cracked black pepper & sea salt (to taste)
- Fresh basil or arugula (for garnish)
- 1 tsp balsamic glaze (optional but recommended for sweetness)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat lovers)
🧂 3. Optional Additions for a Gourmet Touch
Want to wow your guests? Enhance your platter with:
- 🍅 Cherry tomatoes (halved for color & acidity)
- 🫒 Olives (Castelvetrano, Kalamata, or stuffed)
- 🌶 Roasted red peppers
- 🧄 Marinated artichokes or mushrooms
- 🍯 Fig jam or honey (adds contrast & sweetness)
- 🥖 Toasted crostini or baguette slices
- 🌰 Toasted almonds or pistachios (crunch and richness)
🔪 4. Tools & Serving Essentials
Keep your prep and presentation simple and chic:
- Wooden charcuterie board or ceramic platter
- Sharp knife for slicing
- Small bowl for olive oil or jam
- Mini spoons or serving tongs
- Cheese knife or spreader
Tip: If you’re hosting a gathering, use mini plates so everyone can enjoy without crowding the main board.
🍽️ 5. How to Assemble the Perfect Burrata & Salami Platter
Follow these steps for a platter that’s both tasty and Instagram-worthy.
🧀 Step 1: Prep the Burrata
- Remove burrata from its liquid.
- Gently pat dry with a paper towel.
- Place it in the center of your board—this is your focal point.
🥓 Step 2: Arrange the Salami
- Fold slices in half or into rosettes for visual appeal.
- Fan them around the burrata or place in clusters.
🌿 Step 3: Add Garnishes
- Tuck basil leaves or arugula sprigs around the cheese.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes or olives for color contrast.
💧 Step 4: Drizzle & Season
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the burrata.
- Optional: add a light swirl of balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
🥖 Step 5: Serve with Bread
- Arrange toasted crostini or baguette on the side.
- Optional: serve with a ramekin of fig jam or honey for dipping.
🍷 6. Wine Pairings to Elevate the Experience
Pairing wine with this platter enhances the indulgence. Here are foolproof options:
- White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio – light and citrusy
- Red Wine: Chianti or Sangiovese – earthy and balanced
- Sparkling: Prosecco – cuts through the richness beautifully
If you’re alcohol-free, try sparkling water with lemon and rosemary for a classy touch.
🥗 7. Serving Suggestions: Appetizer, Meal, or Sharing Board
- Appetizer: Serve before pasta or grilled meats
- Light Lunch: Pair with arugula salad, citrus dressing, and toasted bread
- Charcuterie Board Star: Add other cheeses (manchego, goat cheese), nuts, fruit, and dips for a luxurious spread
🧂 8. Delicious Variations to Try
🥩 Swap the Salami
- Prosciutto – light & salty
- Coppa – bold & fatty
- Bresaola – lean, beefy option
🧀 Change the Cheese
- Fresh Mozzarella – for a simpler touch
- Stracciatella – same as the inside of burrata
- Truffle Burrata – rich and earthy
🥖 Bread Alternatives
- Gluten-free seed crackers
- Grilled sourdough
- Parmesan crisps
🕒 9. Make-Ahead Tips & Storage
✅ Prep Ahead
- Slice your salami and prep toppings in advance
- Store them separately in airtight containers
- Assemble just before serving for peak freshness
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
- Burrata: In cold water or milk, max 2 days
- Salami: Airtight container in the fridge, up to 5 days
- Veggies & Garnish: Store separately to prevent sogginess
🧮 10. Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 290–340
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 6–12g (depends on bread choice)
- Fiber: 1–2g
Note: This is a low-carb, high-fat dish, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets when served without bread.
🖼️ 11. Creative Presentation Tips
- Use a dark wooden board for rustic contrast
- Add edible flowers or microgreens
- Place a small cheese knife into the burrata for that “torn open” look
- Serve with mini signs or flags labeling ingredients
⚠️ 12. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Serving burrata straight from the fridge (let it warm to room temp)
❌ Overcrowding the platter – leave breathing room
❌ Using low-quality cured meats – go for authentic Italian options
❌ Forgetting acidity (like tomatoes or balsamic) to balance the creaminess
❌ Not adding a crunchy element – always include nuts or toast
❓ 13. Burrata & Salami FAQ
Q1: Can I use burrata straight from the fridge?
No—let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes for optimal texture.
Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace salami with marinated grilled veggies or eggplant strips.
Q3: What are fun ways to serve this for a party?
Try individual mini cups or jars layered with burrata, salami, and tomato.
Q4: How do I make the salami look fancy?
Fold it into rosettes or use a small glass to shape into a flower.
Q5: Can I pair this with pasta?
Absolutely! Serve as a starter before creamy pasta or lasagna.
Q6: What flavors balance out the richness of burrata?
Citrus, balsamic, tomatoes, arugula, and anything with tang or spice.
📝 14. Final Thoughts
This Burrata and Salami Platter is more than just a snack—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic evening, a dinner party, or a solo indulgence, it delivers elegance with minimal effort.
