- Servings 6
- Prep 15 min
- Baking 10 min
Nutrition Per Serving
Calories: 250 kcal Protein: 12 g Fat: 15 g Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates:12 g Dietary Fiber: 2 g Sugars: 3 Cholesterol: 30 mg
Sodium: 480 mg
Ingredients in Italian Bruschetta Recipe
- Six slices of bread (Variations below)
- Two large ripe tomatoes, diced
- One small clove of garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Six basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Two tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze or Balsamic vinegar for drizzling
Kitchen tools for Italian Bruschetta Recipe
- Bread Knife
- Chopping Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Garlic Press (optional)
- Spoon
- Oven Tray
How to Make Bruschetta
- Combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and basil in a mixing bowl. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then drizzle with olive oil. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
- Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C). This temperature is ideal for melting the cheese evenly without burning the bread.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Arrange your slices of bread on the sheet, spacing them out evenly to allow for even heat distribution.
- Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each bread slice. Ensure the cheese covers the bread as you like, remembering it will melt and spread slightly.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. During this time, the bread will toast to a golden crispness while the mozzarella cheese melts into a deliciously gooey topping. Keep an eye on the oven, as the exact timing may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the bread and cheese layer.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven once the bread is toasted and the cheese has melted.
- Spoon the seasoned tomato mixture over the melted cheese on each slice.
- For a final flourish, drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added sweet and tangy complexity layer. Serve immediately to savor the delightful contrast of warm, crispy bread against the fantastic, flavorful toppings.
Tips
- Bread Variations: Ciabatta: Ciabatta provides a lovely crispy crust and a porous interior for a genuine Italian flair.
- Baguette: For those who enjoy a crunchier base, a French baguette, when sliced and toasted, offers a firmer bite that beautifully complements the soft toppings.
- Whole Grain: For a nutritious twist, opt for whole-grain bread. It adds a hearty flavor and extra fiber to make your bruschetta more satisfying.
- For Bruschetta, slice bread 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick for optimal support and crunch without overpowering the toppings.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with smoked mozzarella or burrata for a unique twist on the classic mozzarella topping.
- Enjoy this dish as a prelude to dinner or as a sophisticated snack. Buon Appetito!
Can Bruschetta be made ahead of time?
The tomato topping can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and flavor, assemble the bruschetta (spooning the topping onto the toasted bread) just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
What are the origins of Bruschetta?
Bruschetta has its roots in ancient Rome. It was first documented in English in 1954. Bruschetta was traditionally consumed in the olive oil-producing districts of Tuscany and Umbria with newly made oil.
What are the ingredients needed for authentic Bruschetta?
Authentic Bruschetta recipe requires fresh tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and a crusty Italian bread like ciabatta or baguette.
Italian Bruschetta Recipe
Italian Bruschetta recipe is an iconic appetizer that captures the spirit of Italy in every bite. This recipe invites you to embrace the art of Italian cooking and is a gateway to an authentic Italian experience. Join us on this flavorful journey, and let the magic of Italy unfold in your kitchen!
