How to Season Bruschetta

Bruschetta is traditionally seasoned with olive oil and garlic.

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that can also be served as a snack. Originating in the Tuscan region of Italy, bruschetta is traditionally made from grilled bread seasoned with garlic and extra virgin olive oil. It is usually served with a vegetable topping or accompaniment, one possible flavor combination being tomato and basil. Bruschetta can be served with a glass of chilled white wine before the start of a meal.

Things You'll Need

• 1 French baguette or Italian bread
• 6 or 7 ripe plum tomatoes
• 2 finely chopped cloves garlic
• 6 garlic cloves, not chopped
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 6-8 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Mozarella cheese (optional)
• Black olives (optional)
• Sharp knife
• Bowl
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomato accompaniment before cutting the bread slices. Immerse the tomatoes in boiling water for one minute, drain and pat dry. Remove the tomato skins using a sharp knife. Cut the peeled tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds, juice and stems.

2. Chop the tomatoes finely. Place the tomatoes, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and vinegar in a bowl and mix together with the chopped basil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Place the tomato topping in a bowl with a spoon ready to be served with bread.

3. Slice the baguette and cut into 1/2-inch slices. Toast the slices on a griddle for one minute each side until the bread is crispy. Score each slice two or three times with a sharp knife. Rub each bread slice with a clove of garlic and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle half a teaspoon of olive oil over the top of each one.This recipe will make 24 small slices

4. Place the bread slices on a serving platter, olive oil side up and serve with the tomato as an accompaniment. To create a different flavor, try serving an additional topping such as mozarella cheese or black olives.The bruschetta should be served immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Hold tomatoes that have been immersed in boiling water with a cloth to avoid burning your fingers while you peel them.

References

• All Recipes: Bruschetta
• The Worldwide Gourmet: Bruschetta
• What's Cooking America: Appetizers