BRUSCHETTA
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetiser that combines the simplicity of fresh, ripe tomatoes, salt and pepper with aromatic garlic, basil and olive oil. On toasted baguette slices, this dish is a perfect balance of flavours, with the juicy tomatoes contrasting the crisp bread. The fresh basil adds a burst of herbal fragrance, while a drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness. It’s a light, healthy, quick dish perfect as an appetiser, snack, or side for any meal. It is ideal for summer gatherings or a simple, elegant addition to a casual dinner.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers, Snack, Side, Hors D’oeuvres, Brunch
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Italian, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Pan-Fry (for bread), 5 Ingredients or Less
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Anniversary, Birthday, Cocktail Party, Picnic, Fall, Family Reunion, Graduation, Party, Valentine’s Day, Summer, BBQ, Potluck, Easter, Wedding
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium, Healthy, Kid Friendly, Alcohol-Free
DISH TYPE
Appetisers, Snack, Side, Condiment / Spread
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Bruschetta:
- 1 slice of baguette
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2-3 basil leaves, chopped
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fibre: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
PREPARATION
- Toast The Baguette: Heat a pan over medium heat and drizzle a little olive oil. Toast the baguette slice on both sides until golden brown.
- Prepare The Tomato Mixture: In a bowl, combine the diced tomato, minced garlic and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper and toss gently to combine.
- Assemble The Bruschetta: Once the baguette is toasted, top it with the tomato mixture, making sure to spread it evenly across the surface of the bread.
- Serve And Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with an extra drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavour and presentation.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
5 minutes
TIPS
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavour, use ripe, juicy tomatoes, ideally in season. You can also use cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
- Rub Garlic On Bread: Rub the toasted baguette with a halved garlic clove for more garlic flavour before adding the tomato mixture.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the tomato mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to an hour before serving. This allows the flavours to meld together.
VARIATIONS
- Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the bruschetta for a sweet and tangy contrast to the tomatoes.
- Cheese Topping: Add a slice of fresh mozzarella or crumbled feta for a richer, more indulgent version.
- Olive Tapenade: Add a layer of olive tapenade to the toasted baguette before topping it with the tomato mixture for extra Mediterranean flair.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge Storage: The tomato topping can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for the freshest result.
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze bruschetta as the bread and tomatoes will lose their texture. However, you can freeze the baguette slices after toasting for up to a month.