Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and luxuriously fresh, the Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary repertoire. This dish brings together tender, slow-cooked courgettes infused with the rich, creamy luxury of burrata, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side, this recipe promises a delightful experience that feels effortlessly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic, vibrant flavor and silky texture that make this dish shine. From the freshness of basil to the velvety burrata, every element enhances the Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe in its own way.

• 4 medium courgettes, sliced into half-moons: Provides a tender, mild base that soaks up all the delicious flavors perfectly.
• 8 ounces burrata cheese: Handle gently to keep its creamy center intact for that luscious finish.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the courgettes with a subtle, aromatic punch.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural sweetness of the courgettes.
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.
• 0.25 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped: Brings a burst of herbal brightness to finish.
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds a zesty lift, balancing the creaminess.

How to Make Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Courgettes

Start by washing your courgettes thoroughly, then slice them into half-moon shapes about a quarter of an inch thick. This shape and size ensure they cook evenly and become delightfully tender in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Oil the Slow Cooker

Drizzle olive oil evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. This step is key for preventing the courgettes from sticking and adds a subtle richness to the dish.

Step 3: Layer the Courgettes

Place the courgette slices evenly into the slow cooker. Spread them out so they cook consistently and absorb the garlic and seasonings well.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the courgettes, ensuring every slice catches a little bit of that wonderful aroma, which will slowly infuse during cooking.

Step 5: Season and Mix

Lightly season the courgettes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the garlic and seasoning without breaking the slices apart.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for four to five hours, or until the courgettes reach a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This gentle cooking process allows the flavors to meld effortlessly.

Step 7: Add the Burrata

After the courgettes are perfectly tender, carefully place the burrata cheese on top, cover again, and let it warm through for about 10 minutes. This step lets the burrata soften and become even creamier.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon and Basil

Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. These final touches brighten the rich creaminess and add a vibrant, fresh note.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Make sure to serve the courgettes warm, spooning out generous amounts of burrata with each portion. Enjoy this inviting dish as a main or a side that’s packed with flavor and texture.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little extra basil, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the presentation and add a final burst of flavor. These simple garnishes complement the dish beautifully without overpowering the creamy burrata and tender courgettes.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy juices, or alongside a simple quinoa salad for a fresh, vibrant meal. It also complements grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to any menu.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe in rustic bowls or on a decorative platter topped with whole basil leaves for a charming, farm-to-table aesthetic. You can also make individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The courgettes might release some moisture but will still remain flavorful and tender.

Freezing

Because burrata is quite delicate, freezing is not recommended for this dish. Freezing will alter the texture of the cheese and courgettes, compromising the creamy experience.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a covered pan on low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can cause the burrata to break down unevenly. Adding a fresh sprinkle of basil after reheating brings back some of the original vibrancy.

FAQs

Can I substitute the courgettes with another vegetable?

While courgettes are ideal due to their texture and mild flavor, you could try using thinly sliced summer squash or zucchini, which have similar moisture content and will cook well in a slow cooker.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker? Can I make this on the stove?

You can gently sauté the courgettes in a covered pan over low heat, adding the garlic and seasoning, then letting them cook until tender. The slow cooker, however, creates that signature melt-in-your-mouth softness over time.

Is burrata cheese essential, or can I use mozzarella instead?

Burrata offers a creamy, buttery softness inside that mozzarella simply can’t match. For the authentic richness and texture of this dish, burrata is definitely worth the investment.

How do I keep the burrata intact when adding it to the dish?

Handle burrata gently, placing it carefully on top of the hot courgettes without stirring. Letting it warm covered allows the cheese to soften naturally without melting into a mess.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance for guests?

Absolutely! You can prepare the courgettes and cook them fully, then add the burrata just before serving to keep its delicate texture fresh. This makes hosting stress-free while impressing your guests.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Courgettes with Creamy Burrata Recipe is an absolute gem that brings warmth, elegance, and comfort to your table without any fuss. The ease of slow cooking combined with the luscious creaminess of burrata is truly irresistible. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again.

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