Bruschetta
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This classic Italian antipasto originated in central Italy, dating back to at least the 15th century as a way to salvage day-old bread. Crisp toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil creates a perfect balance of textures and bright flavors. It's the embodiment of Italian cooking philosophy: simple, quality ingredients allowed to shine.
Time & Quantities
Method & Ingredients
Required Equipment: Cutting board, knife, mixing bowl, baking sheet
Cooking Method: Grilling - Broiling
Ingredients
- 4 thick slices Italian bread
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat broiler to high. Place bread slices on a baking sheet.
- Broil bread for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and toasted - keep an eye on them, they'll go from perfect to charcoal in seconds!
- Rub one side of each toast with the cut side of halved garlic clove.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let the tomato mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together - this little rest makes all the difference!
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each slice of garlic-rubbed toast.
- Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately before the bread softens.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage Advice: Best served immediately after assembly. The tomato mixture can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Prepare tomato mixture up to 4 hours ahead and keep refrigerated. Toast bread and assemble just before serving. Not suitable for freezing.
Nutritional & Dietary Information
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 11g (Saturated: 1.5g)
- Carbohydrates: 18g (Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 3g)
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
Allergen Information: Contains wheat (bread)
Dietary Information: Contains gluten; not suitable for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. Vegan if using gluten-free bread.
Serving & Variations
Serving Suggestions: Serve as a rustic starter on a wooden board. For a more substantial appetizer add a small platter of cured meats and cheeses alongside
Wine or Drink Pairing: A crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino enhances the fresh tomato flavors. A young Sangiovese also works beautifully with the garlic and tomato combination.
Possible Recipe Variations: Bruschetta with Mushrooms: Replace tomatoes with sautéed wild mushrooms and thyme. White Bean Bruschetta: Add cannellini beans to the tomato mixture. Avocado Bruschetta: Include diced avocado with the tomatoes
Additional Notes: For the best flavor, use the ripest tomatoes available and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
So excited to find this Bruschetta recipe! First time I made them and frankly I impressed myself…ate them all as my dinner with green salad. 😅
Simple but perfect appetizer! Used heirloom tomatoes from the farmers market and it made all the difference. The tip about rubbing the bread with garlic before topping is spot on. A drizzle of really good olive oil is essential!