There’s something truly special about a sandwich that surprises your palate and elevates your lunchtime routine. As I found myself with a vibrant zucchini from the farmer’s market and a creamy ball of burrata just begging to be used, inspiration hit. This Creamy Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini Confit is the result, and it draws together fresh, bold flavors that evoke the essence of summer.
Picture this: a crispy, perfectly toasted baguette cradling rich, velvety burrata, a punchy olive pesto that brings savory depth, and tender zucchini confit infused with hints of garlic and lemon. As I layered the ingredients, the anticipation grew – would each bite deliver the satisfying crunch and creamy goodness I hoped for? Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.
This no-fuss recipe is perfect for quick lunches or elegant picnics, making it a must-try for anyone craving a delicious, vegetarian-friendly meal. Let’s dive in and explore how to put this delightful sandwich together!
Why Is Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich a Must-Try?
Deliciously Indulgent: This sandwich combines creamy burrata with rich olive pesto, creating a flavor explosion that elevates any meal.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gourmet sandwich in no time!
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh zucchini and arugula not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful touch of color.
Versatile Choices: Easily customize with different pestos, cheeses, or veggies to suit your cravings or dietary needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch at home or a chic picnic treat, this sandwich fits the bill perfectly!
Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich Ingredients
For the Sandwich
- Baguette – the ideal base; choose a fresh, crusty baguette for the best texture.
- Burrata Cheese – adds luxurious creaminess; fresh mozzarella is a good substitute if necessary.
- Olive Pesto – infuses the sandwich with savory depth; you can use store-bought or homemade for convenience.
- Zucchini Confit – brings sweetness and moisture; roasted peppers are a great alternative if you’re looking for something different.
- Arugula – gives a refreshing peppery taste; if you prefer, spinach can serve as a milder option.
For Assembly
- Olive Oil – drizzle a bit on your baguette for added flavor when toasting.
- Garlic – optional for infusing flavor; consider adding minced garlic to your zucchini confit for an extra kick.
- Lemon Zest – a sprinkle can enhance the brightness of the ingredients, making each bite pop!
Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of the Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini Confit!
How to Make Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich
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Prepare the Zucchini Confit:
Slice your zucchini into thin rounds, then gently cook them in a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté until tender and infused with garlic and lemon zest, about 10-15 minutes. -
Toast the Baguette:
Slice your fresh baguette in half lengthwise, then toast it in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. You want it golden brown to achieve that perfect crunch. -
Spread the Pesto:
Generously slather olive pesto on the bottom half of your toasted baguette. This flavorful layer is essential for a deliciously savory base. -
Layer the Ingredients:
Add a thick slice of creamy burrata atop the pesto, then layer on your tender zucchini confit and a handful of fresh arugula. This combination highlights the sandwich’s harmonic flavors. -
Assemble and Serve:
Close your sandwich with the top half of the baguette and slice it in half for easier handling. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich
Fridge: Store leftover sandwich components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the freshness and texture of ingredients.
Freezer: If you want to freeze elements, wrap zucchini confit in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 1 month. The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but this keeps components ready for assembly.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the zucchini confit in a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating the assembled sandwich as it can become soggy.
Assembly Tip: For the best texture, assemble your Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich just before serving, after pulling your stored ingredients from the fridge.
Make Ahead Options
These Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwiches with Zucchini Confit are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the zucchini confit and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to keep it fresh. The olive pesto can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwich, simply toast the baguette and layer the pesto, burrata, and zucchini confit right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch and creaminess. This way, you’ll get delicious, gourmet results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich?
To create a meal that delights every taste bud, consider these perfect pairings!
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Mixed Green Salad:
A light and refreshing salad with vibrant greens adds a crisp contrast to the creamy sandwich. -
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries:
Their natural sweetness and crunch provide a comforting side, enhancing the savory notes of the sandwich. -
Chilled Gazpacho:
This cold tomato soup, with its tangy taste, offers a refreshing complement to the richness of the burrata. -
Grilled Vegetable Platter:
Seasoned and charred veggies elevate the meal’s health factor and create a colorful, flavorful side. -
Herbed Quinoa:
Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh herbs brings in wholesome grains, enhancing the dish’s elegance without overpowering it. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
This bubbly drink refreshes and balances the rich flavors, with citrus notes that harmonize beautifully. -
Chocolate-Hazelnut Tart:
To end on a sweet note, this decadent dessert complements the Mediterranean flavors while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Dig into these delightful pairings, and elevate your Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich experience to new heights!
Expert Tips for Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich
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Quality Matters: Use high-quality burrata for a creamier texture and richer flavor. Fresh ingredients always make a world of difference!
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Avoid Sogginess: Ensure the zucchini confit cools before layering to prevent your bread from getting soggy. This keeps your Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich perfectly crunchy.
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Perfect Toasting: Toast the baguette until golden brown; this adds a delightful crunch that balances the creaminess of the burrata.
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Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different pestos or cheeses. A sun-dried tomato pesto or feta can transform your sandwich into something uniquely delicious!
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Freshness is Key: Assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the ingredients vibrant and fresh. Enjoy immediately for the best taste experience!
Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich Variations
Feel free to take this delicious sandwich and make it your own with these exciting twists!
- Feta Swap: Replace burrata with feta cheese for a tangy, briny kick that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Add sliced roasted red peppers for a sweet flavor boost that adds a pop of color and texture.
- Spinach instead of Arugula: Use fresh spinach in place of arugula for a milder, creamy flavor—perfect for those who prefer subtle greens.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Switch up the olive pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for an extra depth of flavor that’s both earthy and vibrant.
- Vegan Version: Opt for a plant-based cheese to make this sandwich vegan-friendly while still enjoying creamy goodness.
Imagine biting into a sandwich where every layer tells a story. Choose one or mix a few of these variations to create your unique masterpiece!
Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini Confit Recipe FAQs
What type of baguette should I use?
For the best texture, I recommend using a fresh, crusty baguette. It should have a golden, crispy crust that perfectly complements the creamy burrata and keeps the sandwich from becoming soggy.
How should I store the sandwich leftovers?
To keep your leftover sandwich fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days in the fridge. This method helps maintain the freshness of the lettuce and the texture of the bread.
Can I freeze the zucchini confit?
Absolutely! Wrap your zucchini confit tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
What if my zucchini becomes mushy while cooking?
Don’t worry! If your zucchini confit turns out mushy, try cooking it on a lower heat for a longer time or slicing it thicker next time. Also, ensure you’re using fresh zucchinis, as older ones can become overly soft.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, the olive pesto typically does not contain nuts. However, always double-check the specific pesto brand you are using or consider making a homemade version to ensure it’s nut-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of the Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini Confit!
Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini Confit Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Zucchini Confit: Slice zucchini into thin rounds and cook in olive oil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until tender with garlic and lemon zest.
- Toast the Baguette: Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and toast in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Spread the Pesto: Slather olive pesto on the bottom half of the toasted baguette.
- Layer the Ingredients: Add burrata on top of the pesto, followed by zucchini confit and fresh arugula.
- Assemble and Serve: Close with the top baguette half, slice in half, and serve immediately.