Embark on a culinary journey to the stunning Amalfi Coast with the most delightful yet incredibly simple Burrata and Anchovy Sandwich. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a testament to the Italian philosophy of “less is more,” where a few high-quality ingredients combine to create an explosion of flavor. Imagine creamy, milky burrata meeting the assertive, salty notes of anchovies, perfectly complemented by the sweet, umami-rich burst of sun-blushed tomatoes and the fresh, peppery bite of arugula, all nestled within a crusty ciabatta roll. Taking no more than 5 minutes to assemble, this sandwich is a revelation, promising an authentic taste of coastal Italy right in your kitchen.
Should fortune ever lead you to the breathtaking, cliffside towns of the Amalfi Coast – a region renowned for its dramatic landscapes and vibrant culinary scene near Naples – make it a point to seek out the charm of local eateries. Our particular inspiration for this recipe stems from an unforgettable sandwich experienced at La Bottega dei Ferrari. It’s a place where simple, fresh ingredients are celebrated, and culinary traditions are honored in every bite. This “recipe” is a loving homage to one of their creations, a sandwich so profoundly delicious it beckons to be recreated and shared. Be warned, however: if you’re not a fan of anchovies, this particular symphony of flavors might not be for you. But for those who appreciate their briny depth, prepare for a treat.
The magic of this sandwich lies in its straightforward elegance: a foundation of crusty, artisanal white bread generously filled with the creamiest, melt-in-your-mouth burrata. This rich dairy delight is masterfully cut through by the sharp, saline essence of perfectly salted anchovies, creating an exquisite balance. Added to this harmony are juicy tomatoes, offering a touch of sweetness and acidity, along with a scattering of peppery arugula to introduce a vibrant freshness. That’s truly it – a minimal assembly of ingredients that yields maximal flavor. It’s SO easy, SO simple, yet undeniably and insanely delicious, proving that gourmet taste doesn’t require complexity.
Essential Ingredients for Your Amalfi Masterpiece
Crafting an exceptional Burrata and Anchovy Sandwich is fundamentally about selecting the finest ingredients. In Italian cooking, quality always trumps quantity, and this simple recipe is the perfect canvas for showcasing stellar produce. Here’s a closer look at the stars of our show and why their nuances matter:
- Bread: The Foundation
Opt for high-quality ciabatta rolls or any crusty white rolls that boast a perfectly crisp exterior and a soft, airy interior. The bread isn’t just a vessel; it’s an integral component, offering crucial textural contrast and a sturdy base to hold the creamy and succulent fillings. A good quality rustic bread will absorb the flavors beautifully without becoming soggy.
- Burrata: The Creamy Heart
This exquisite Italian cheese, a cousin to mozzarella, is paramount. Burrata features an outer shell of solid mozzarella, but its true magic lies within: a decadent filling of stracciatella and cream, offering an unparalleled milky richness. The secret to unlocking its full flavor potential is serving it at room temperature. Therefore, remember to bring your burrata out of the fridge at least 30 minutes in advance. Cold burrata will be stiff and muted; room-temperature burrata will yield to a luscious, flowing creaminess that envelops every other ingredient.
- Sun-Blushed Tomatoes: Umami & Sweetness
These semi-dried tomatoes, often preserved in oil, offer a concentrated sweetness and a powerful umami punch that fresh tomatoes simply can’t match, especially when out of season. You can also use good quality sun-dried tomatoes if sun-blushed are unavailable. Similar to burrata, ensure they are not super cold if refrigerated, as their oils and flavors will be more vibrant at a moderate temperature. They add a chewy texture and a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to each bite.
- Anchovies: The Salty Kiss of the Sea
The controversial yet indispensable ingredient. Anchovy fillets bring a deep, savory saltiness and an incredible depth of umami that cuts through the richness of the burrata and elevates the entire sandwich. For this recipe, 2-3 anchovy fillets per sandwich are typically perfect, depending on their size and your personal preference for their robust flavor. Look for anchovies packed in olive oil, as they tend to be more tender and less intensely salty than those packed in salt.
- Arugula (aka Rocket): The Peppery Counterpoint
A handful of fresh arugula (or rocket, as it’s known in many parts of the world) adds a vital element of freshness and a delightful peppery kick. Its slight bitterness cleanses the palate and provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and the saltiness of the anchovies. Always use fresh, crisp leaves for the best effect.
This recipe is designed to yield two satisfying sandwiches, making it ideal for a light lunch or a shared snack. However, its simplicity means it can be effortlessly scaled up to serve a larger gathering or halved for a quick solo indulgence. As with all great culinary creations, especially those rooted in Italian tradition, the key to unlocking truly delicious and incredible tasting food, particularly when the recipes are so beautifully simple, lies unequivocally in the use of high-quality ingredients. Invest in the best you can find; your taste buds will thank you.
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Burrata and Anchovy Sandwich from Amalfi
5 out of 5 stars from 1 vote
By Emily
5
5
2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 2 ciabatta rolls, or other crusty white rolls
- 1 ball burrata (at room temperature)
- 4-6 anchovy fillets (packed in oil)
- 6 sun-blushed tomatoes (or good quality sun-dried)
- Small handful arugula, (also known as rocket)
- Optional: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- Optional: Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
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Begin by carefully slicing each ciabatta roll in half horizontally. Gently place a small handful of fresh arugula (rocket) onto the bottom half of each roll, creating a fresh, peppery bed for the other ingredients.
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Carefully break the ball of room-temperature burrata into two equal portions. Dollop half of the creamy burrata onto the arugula in each roll, ensuring its rich, luscious center is ready to mingle with the other flavors. Artfully arrange 2-3 anchovy fillets over the burrata in each sandwich, allowing their savory saltiness to penetrate. Then, evenly distribute 2-3 sun-blushed tomatoes on top, adding bursts of concentrated sweetness.
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If desired, finish with a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an added layer of aroma and flavor. Place the top half of the ciabatta roll onto your masterpiece, and enjoy immediately! This sandwich is best savored fresh.
Tips for the Perfect Burrata & Anchovy Sandwich
- Temperature is Key: Ensure both your burrata and sun-blushed tomatoes are at room temperature. This allows their full spectrum of flavors and textures to shine.
- Toasting the Bread: For an extra layer of texture and warmth, lightly toast the ciabatta rolls before assembling the sandwich. This adds a delightful crunch and can prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- High-Quality Olive Oil: A finishing drizzle of a fruity, robust extra virgin olive oil can tie all the flavors together beautifully.
- Freshly Ground Pepper: A grind of black pepper just before serving adds a subtle warmth and aromatic lift.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Anchovies: If you’re hesitant, start with fewer fillets. Their flavor is transformative and far less “fishy” when balanced with creamy cheese.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Anchovy Alternatives: If anchovies truly aren’t your preference, consider thinly sliced prosciutto for a different salty, savory element, or roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky touch.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A few basil leaves or a sprinkle of fresh oregano can enhance the Mediterranean profile.
- Serve Alongside: This sandwich is substantial enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, or a glass of chilled white wine like a Vermentino or Pinot Grigio.
Helpful Info for All Recipes
- I always use extra virgin olive oil in all of my recipes unless stated otherwise. Its robust flavor is fundamental to authentic Italian dishes.
- When I use canned or jarred tomatoes of any kind, I consistently choose Cirio or Mutti brands. Their consistent quality and rich flavor yield the best results every time.
- All vegetables mentioned are assumed to be medium-sized unless specifically stated otherwise.
- All recipes are meticulously tested and developed using a fan (convection) oven to ensure reliable results.
- Find out more about how nutrition is calculated for our recipes.
- Check out our must-have Italian Pantry Staples to stock your kitchen with essential ingredients.
- You can also find all our Essential Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking to equip yourself for culinary success.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 30g |
Protein: 20g |
Fat: 20g |
Saturated Fat: 11g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 58mg |
Sodium: 289mg |
Potassium: 236mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 2g |
Vitamin A: 581IU |
Vitamin C: 2mg |
Calcium: 416mg |
Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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More Delicious Italian Snacks & Quick Bites to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with the simplicity and exquisite taste of the Burrata and Anchovy Sandwich, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of Italy’s delightful and easy-to-make snacks. Here are some of our other favorite quick Italian bites that perfectly capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine:
- La Piadina: Italian Flatbread – A versatile, thin flatbread perfect for fillings of all kinds.
- Walnut Focaccia – A fragrant, tender focaccia bread with a delightful nutty crunch.
- Rosemary Focaccia Bread – The classic aromatic Italian bread, ideal as a side or a light meal.
- Pane, Burro e Alice (Bread, Butter and Anchovy) – An even simpler, traditional Italian snack celebrating the anchovy.
- Mozzarella Bocconcini, Pesto and Sun Blushed Tomatoes – A fresh, vibrant bite-sized appetizer bursting with Mediterranean flavors.