Golden Beet & Burrata Stacks with Pistachio & Citrus Zest
This colorful, elegant appetizer is a celebration of fresh flavors and contrasting textures. Golden Beet & Burrata Stacks with Pistachio & Citrus Zest are creamy, earthy, nutty, and zesty all at once. Roasted golden and red beets are layered with pillowy burrata cheese, then finished with toasted pistachios, a drizzle of honey and olive oil, and a sprinkle of bright orange zest. It’s the kind of dish that steals the show at dinner parties, yet it’s deceptively simple to prepare.
Why I Love This Recipe
These beet stacks are pure harmony: the mellow sweetness of golden beets, the luscious texture of burrata, the satisfying crunch of pistachios, and the surprise citrus sparkle from orange zest. It’s fresh, seasonal, and comes together with very little effort. Plus, the dish is naturally gluten-free and feels elevated enough for holidays, brunches, or fancy date nights at home.
Ingredients
For the Stacks:
- 3 golden beets, roasted and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 red beets, roasted and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 fresh burrata cheese ball, torn into chunks
- ¼ cup pistachios, toasted and chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Beets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap beets individually in foil and roast on a baking sheet for 45–50 minutes, or until fork-tender. Let them cool, then peel and slice into ½-inch thick rounds.
2. Assemble the Stacks
Start with a golden beet slice as the base. Add a piece of burrata, then a red beet slice. Repeat this layering process until you’ve built a small tower, finishing with a final dollop of burrata on top.
3. Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle each stack with toasted, chopped pistachios. Drizzle olive oil and honey over the tops, allowing it to run slightly down the sides. Zest fresh orange directly over each plate for maximum brightness.
4. Season & Serve
Finish with flaky sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprig of fresh thyme. Serve immediately while the burrata is soft and cool.
Tips for Success
- Use Burrata Fresh: Its creamy center is best enjoyed at room temperature.
- Toast Pistachios Ahead: A few minutes in a dry pan enhances their nuttiness.
- Make it a Meal: Serve over arugula with grilled chicken for a composed salad.
- Shortcut: Use pre-cooked beets from the produce section to save time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this elegant starter with:
- A Light Tangy Chicken Salad for a springy lunch
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for a bold main
- Blueberry Lemonade or
- The Slippery Drank for a flavorful beverage pairing
More Seasonal Recipes to Try
Keep the freshness going with:
Final Thoughts
These Golden Beet & Burrata Stacks with Pistachio & Citrus Zest are proof that simple ingredients can shine when paired just right. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful to serve as it is to eat, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special and seasonal.
Let me know if you try it! And tag @chefmaniac on social media so I can see your beet beauties in action. 🌿🧡
