Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

The Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich is an indulgent, savory delight that perfectly balances rich, creamy, and meaty flavors. Mortadella, a traditional Italian cold cut made from finely ground pork, is paired with burrata, a fresh, creamy cheese from southern Italy, to create a sandwich that is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. This sandwich is ideal for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, offering a taste of Italy in every bite.

The contrast between the smooth, milky burrata and the hearty, slightly salty mortadella, along with the freshness of greens and the tang of a good olive oil, makes this sandwich an irresistible treat. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rustic loaf of bread, a crusty baguette, or a soft focaccia, the Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich is a versatile and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of creamy burrata and flavorful mortadella creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The burrata’s richness complements the delicate saltiness of the mortadella, making every bite a treat.
• Simple Yet Elegant: This sandwich feels fancy without being complicated. The combination of premium ingredients—mortadella, burrata, and quality bread—allows you to enjoy a luxurious sandwich with minimal effort.
• Perfect Balance of Textures: The soft, creamy burrata contrasts wonderfully with the slightly chewy texture of mortadella. Fresh greens and crispy bread complete the sandwich with layers of crunch and tenderness.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a casual lunch or an elevated brunch, this sandwich fits all occasions. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your cravings for something comforting yet refined.
• Easy to Make: With just a few key ingredients, this sandwich is quick and easy to prepare. There’s no need for extensive cooking—just assemble, and enjoy!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked mortadella and burrata)
• Servings: 2 sandwiches
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per sandwich, depending on bread choice and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich:

• 4 slices of fresh, crusty bread (ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia work well)
• 6 ounces of mortadella (approximately 6 thin slices)
• 4 ounces of burrata cheese (1 ball)
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional, for a tangy finish)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh greens (arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens)
• Coarse sea salt (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 tomatoes (optional, for added freshness)

Special Equipment

While this sandwich doesn’t require special equipment, a few items can make preparation easier:

1. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the mortadella and burrata delicately. Burrata is soft and creamy, so a serrated knife or a very sharp chef’s knife is ideal for cutting it without making a mess.
2. Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for preparing the ingredients, ensuring easy slicing and assembly.
3. Grill Pan (optional): If you prefer your sandwich toasted, a grill pan can add a nice crisp to the bread, providing a delightful crunch to contrast with the soft fillings.
4. Spoon: A spoon will help you gently scoop out the burrata cheese without breaking the delicate outer shell.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Start by selecting your bread. For this sandwich, you want something with a slightly crispy crust and a soft, airy interior. Ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia are excellent choices.

If you prefer a toasted sandwich, you can lightly grill the bread. To do this, heat a grill pan over medium heat, and place the slices of bread in the pan for a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of texture and warmth.

2. Slice the Mortadella and Burrata

While your bread is toasting (if desired), slice the mortadella into thin pieces. Mortadella is typically pre-sliced at the deli, but if you purchase a larger piece, aim for paper-thin slices to keep the texture light and delicate.

Next, prepare the burrata. Burrata has a soft outer shell filled with a creamy interior. Using a spoon, gently scoop the burrata out of its packaging and cut it into portions or simply leave it whole if you prefer a more rustic presentation.

3. Assemble the Sandwich

Lay your bread slices flat on a clean surface. On one slice of bread, layer the mortadella slices generously, covering the surface of the bread. If you like, you can slightly fold or roll the slices for a more textured appearance.

Next, add the burrata. If you’ve kept it in one piece, gently press it onto the mortadella. For a more balanced texture, tear the burrata into smaller pieces and distribute it evenly over the mortadella.

4. Add Fresh Greens and Tomatoes (Optional)

Layer a few fresh greens on top of the burrata. Arugula is a popular choice for its peppery flavor, but you can use baby spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a milder taste. If you’d like to add extra freshness and acidity, slice a tomato into thin rounds and place them on top of the greens.

5. Season the Sandwich

Drizzle the sandwich with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add richness. If you prefer a tangier note, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the greens or tomatoes.

Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. These seasonings bring out the flavor of the mortadella and burrata without overpowering the delicate ingredients.

6. Close the Sandwich and Serve

Place the second slice of bread on top of the sandwich and gently press down. If you toasted your bread, you now have a deliciously crisp crust with a soft interior. If you left the bread untoasted, the sandwich will have a more tender texture.

For added presentation, you can cut the sandwich in half on the diagonal, creating two triangles that are easy to handle and visually appealing.

7. Enjoy!

Serve the sandwich immediately. You can pair it with a light side salad, chips, or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Perfect Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the mortadella and burrata makes all the difference in this sandwich. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Experiment with Bread Types: While ciabatta, focaccia, and baguette are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other types of bread, such as sourdough or a soft brioche, depending on your preference.
• Toast the Bread for Extra Crunch: If you like a bit of crunch, toasting the bread will give your sandwich an extra texture contrast. A grill pan or even a toaster works well for this.
• Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil not only adds a rich flavor but also enhances the sandwich’s authenticity. Don’t skimp on this ingredient; it’s key to bringing out the flavors of the burrata and mortadella.
• Add Optional Seasonings: If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a more herby flavor, consider adding some fresh basil or oregano.

Variations of Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich

• Mortadella and Burrata with Pistachios: For an added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the mortadella before adding the burrata. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
• Grilled Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich: Grill the mortadella slices for a few minutes to enhance their flavor and create a slightly crispy texture. This variation adds a smoky depth to the sandwich.
• Balsamic-Glazed Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the entire sandwich for a touch of sweetness and acidity. The glaze adds a layer of complexity to the flavors.
• Roasted Red Pepper and Mortadella Sandwich: Add roasted red peppers for a slightly sweet and smoky flavor that complements the mortadella and burrata.

Storage and Shelf Life

The Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, as the burrata is delicate and can become runny after a few hours. However, if you have leftovers, store the ingredients separately:

• Keep any leftover mortadella and burrata wrapped in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• If you’ve made a sandwich but have leftovers, it’s best to consume it within 1-2 hours, as the bread can become soggy.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich

Pair your sandwich with a refreshing side dish to enhance the experience:

• Olives: A small bowl of marinated olives complements the sandwich perfectly, providing a salty contrast to the creamy burrata.
• Chips: Serve the sandwich with a side of crispy chips for added crunch.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the sandwich.
• White Wine: A light, crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the richness of the burrata and mortadella.

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Conclusion

The Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a luxurious sandwich that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress. Its simple elegance and rich flavors make it a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and hard to resist. Enjoy this Italian-inspired treat, and let its deliciousness transport you to a Mediterranean café!