Bruschetta II

Bruschetta II Recipe from France - Delicious Plum Tomato Bruschetta

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bruschetta II is a classic Italian appetizer that consists of toasted bread topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and seasonings. This dish is perfect for serving at parties or as a light and refreshing snack.

History

Bruschetta originated in central Italy, where it was traditionally served as a way to use up stale bread. Over time, the dish evolved to include a variety of toppings, with the tomato and basil version becoming one of the most popular variations.

Ingredients

Seasoning oil

0.33 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, crushed
6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
0.13 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Tomato topping

1.5 lb (680 g) plum tomatoes, chopped
0.5 cup chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
1 loaf french bread (8 oz (227 g)), split horizontally
small fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to prepare

Prepare the seasoning oil by heating oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
Add garlic, basil, and red-pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, for 5 to 7 minutes or until the garlic is golden.
Allow the oil to cool and then strain it.
Meanwhile, prepare the tomato topping by stirring together tomatoes, basil, vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
Brush the cut sides of the split bread with about 2 tbsp of the seasoning oil.
Place the bread on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated 500°F (260°C) oven for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden.
Slice the toasted bread into 2-inch widths and arrange them on a large serving platter.
Spoon the tomato topping over the bread and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Variations

Add diced mozzarella cheese to the tomato topping for a creamy twist.
Top the bruschetta with grilled vegetables for a heartier version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe plum tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Straining the seasoning oil helps to remove any large pieces of garlic or basil, resulting in a smoother texture.

- Toasting the bread before adding the toppings helps to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bruschetta II as an appetizer before a meal or as a light snack on its own.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the bread in the oven helps to create a crispy texture that holds up well to the tomato topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes instead of plum tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.

- Substitute parsley for basil if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The tomato topping can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Bruschetta II with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover bruschetta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bruschetta in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bruschetta II contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bruschetta II contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Bruschetta II contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Bruschetta II contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Bruschetta II is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread and may contain traces of nuts from the seasoning oil.

Summary

Bruschetta II is a light and flavorful appetizer that is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Bruschetta II is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria at her beautiful villa in the Italian countryside. She had invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma.

Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of tomato sauce and grilling slices of bread on a cast iron skillet. The smell of garlic and basil filled the air, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

"Bruschetta II," she said with a smile. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly agreed, and Maria began to show me the steps. She explained that the key to a good bruschetta was using fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality olive oil. She also showed me how to season the tomatoes with salt, pepper, and a touch of balsamic vinegar to bring out their natural flavors.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Maria shared stories of her grandmother who had taught her how to make bruschetta when she was just a little girl. She spoke fondly of the time they spent together in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and preparing meals for the family.

I could see the love and passion that Maria put into her cooking, and I knew that I wanted to learn more from her. By the time we finished making the bruschetta, I felt like I had been transported to a different time and place. The flavors were bold and fresh, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

I thanked Maria for sharing her family recipe with me and promised to make it for my own family soon. As I left her villa that day, I felt inspired to learn more about traditional Italian cooking and the stories behind each dish.

Over the years, I have made Maria's bruschetta many times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I think of her and the memories we shared in her kitchen that summer day. The recipe has become a staple in my own collection, and I treasure the moments spent learning from a dear friend.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, using different herbs and spices to create new variations of bruschetta. I have shared the recipe with my grandchildren, passing down the tradition of cooking and sharing stories through food.

As I look back on that day in Maria's kitchen, I am grateful for the friendship and the knowledge that she shared with me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and create lasting memories. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share my recipes, the tradition will live on for generations to come.