Bruschetta (Italian pronunciation: [bruˈsketta] ) is an antipasto (appetizer) from Italy consisting of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil; variations may include toppings of tomato, vegetables, beans, cured meat, or cheese. The most popular recipe outside Italy involves basil, fresh tomato, garlic, onion or mozzarella cheese. Brusschetta tastes refreshing especially during the summer months when tomatoes are at their best! The 2 recipes below are very easy to pull together and can be prepared with a snap! Adjust them to your liking by adding ingredients you like. These Bruschetta can be served as an appetizer or relish, depending on your preference and your family and friends will definitely enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh baguette or you can use garlic bread loaf instead
- 5 garden fresh firm tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed and minced
- 1 whole garlic clove (to rub the bruschetta with)
- 1/2 Medium sweet onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoon chopped thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tiny pinch red pepper flakes
- A couple turns of a pepper grinder
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes+2 teaspoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Bruscheta
Method:
- Preheat oven to 425degrees F. Slice baguette into 32 (1/2-inch thick) slices.
- Mix oil and parsley flakes in small bowl. Brush oil mixture lightly on both sides of bread slices.
- Place in single layer on baking sheet.
- Bake 6-8 minutes or until crisp and light brown, turning once. Cool on wire rack before using
- Rub 1 whole garlic clove on the freshly toasted baguette slices
- Combine all remaining ingredients (except the freshly toasted baguette) and mix
- Drain in a colander for a few minutes
- Taste, add more salt or pepper to your liking
- Spoon on the baguette slices.
- Serve room temperature and ENJOY!
For the Feta and Capers Bruschetta, just add 2 teaspoons small capers, drained and 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley.
P.S: I usually make these couple Bruschetta recipes when I’m entertaining friends and family. This is a great refreshing combo.