What Is the Meaning of Bruschetta?
Bruschetta, a traditional Italian appetizer, comes from the Latin word bruscare, which means to toast or burn. Most variations involve rubbing small thick slices of crusty toast with garlic cloves, then drizzling olive oil over it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Bruschetta's Origins
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The roots of bruschetta trace to ancient Rome. When olive growers carted their harvest to local oil presses, they used slices of small toast to sample their olive oil as it was produced. Garlic and other toppings would later be added to create what we know today as bruschetta.
Bruschetta vs. Crostini
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Bruschetta and crostini often are mistaken for each other. Crostini are thin slices of toasted bread drizzled with olive oil, but lacking the garlic rub. Bruschetta and crostini can be topped with diced tomatoes mixed with basil and other Italian seasonings and cheeses.
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Traditional Bruschetta Recipe
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Thinly sliced plum tomatoes and fresh basil leaves tossed in lemon or lime juice make a classic topping for bruschetta. Once the traditional bruschetta foundation is on the plate, a teaspoon or two of the tomato and basil mixture can be scooped on top, and the dish is ready to go.
Balsamic Variation
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Just as balsamic vinegar adds zip to salads, many crafters of bruschetta add a few splashes of this sweet, tangy condiment to the tops of the classic appetizer dish. Balsamic vinegar adds a gourmet accent to an already flavorful recipe.
A Fruity Twist
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Some variations of bruschetta don't use the traditional seasoned garlic and olive oil, but instead have a sweeter taste. EatingWell.com lists a recipe for strawberry bruschetta (see reference below), which replaces garlic and olive oil with cream cheese, tomatoes, basil and strawberries. The recipe is a tasty alternative for morning coffee cake or a light dessert served with after-dinner espresso.
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