Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil

California Avocado and Basil Bruschetta Recipe from Italy

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

Introduction

Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil is a delicious and refreshing appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a burst of flavor in every bite.

History

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian dish that consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with various toppings. This version with California avocado and basil puts a modern twist on the classic recipe, adding a creamy and flavorful element to the dish.

Ingredients

1 california avocado, seeded, peeled and diced
0.5 lb (227 g) roma tomatoes, sliced lengthwise and diced
0.25 cup diced red onion
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
1 to 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground pepper and salt, to taste
1 sourdough baguette (about 10 oz (283 g)), diagonally cut into 0.5 inch slices and lightly toasted

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, lightly combine avocado, tomatoes, onion, olive oil, parsley, basil, garlic, pepper, and salt.
Top each slice of toasted bread with about 1 heaping tbsp. of the tomato-avocado mixture.
Garnish each with a small leaf of basil, if desired.
Note: To prepare ahead of time or to keep the mixture in the refrigerator for use as a quick snack, combine all ingredients except avocado.
To serve, thinly slice 1 peeled medium California avocado and arrange 1 or 2 slices of avocado on each piece of toasted bread.
Top each serving with about 1 heaping tbsp. of the tomato-avocado mixture.

Variations

Add diced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Drizzle balsamic glaze on top for added sweetness.
Sprinkle feta cheese or Parmesan on top for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- Toast the bread just before serving to ensure it stays crispy.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and salt to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil as an appetizer at a dinner party or enjoy it as a light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the bread adds a crispy texture to the bruschetta, while combining the avocado mixture ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of bread for the base of the bruschetta, such as ciabatta or sourdough. You can also substitute red onion with shallots or green onions.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the avocado mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just slice the avocado and assemble the bruschetta right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover bruschetta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to crisp up the bread.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is rich in healthy fats, with each serving providing about 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

There are about 3 grams of protein in each serving of Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil.

Vitamins and minerals

California avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as folate and potassium. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread. It is also dairy-free and nut-free.

Summary

Overall, Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Summary

Bruschetta with California Avocado and Basil is a simple yet elegant dish that is bursting with flavor. The creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil come together to create a delicious appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or as a light and refreshing snack.

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 in her garden. As we sat at her outdoor table sipping on homemade lemonade, she brought out a platter of bruschetta topped with ripe California avocados and fresh basil.

I had never seen anything like it before. The vibrant green avocados contrasted beautifully with the bright red tomatoes, and the aroma of the basil was intoxicating. I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the tangy tomatoes and fragrant basil. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth.

I begged Maria for the recipe, and she happily obliged. She told me that she had learned it from her Italian grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen.

I went home and gathered all the ingredients I needed – ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, crusty bread, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. I carefully sliced the avocados and tomatoes, chopped the basil, and minced the garlic. I drizzled the bread with olive oil and toasted it until it was golden brown and crispy.

As I assembled the bruschetta, I couldn't help but think of Maria's grandmother and the love and care she must have put into each batch she made. I could almost feel her presence in my kitchen, guiding me through the process.

When I took my first bite of the finished dish, I was transported back to Maria's garden. The flavors were just as vibrant and delicious as I remembered. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own home, a dish that I would pass down to my own grandchildren one day.

Over the years, I have made this bruschetta countless times, experimenting with different variations and tweaks. I have added roasted garlic, tangy feta cheese, and even a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. But no matter how I change it up, the core flavors of ripe avocado, juicy tomato, and fragrant basil always shine through.

As I sit here now, writing this recipe down for you, I can't help but feel grateful for the friends and family who have shared their culinary wisdom with me over the years. Each recipe I have learned has a story behind it, a memory attached to it that makes it more than just a dish – it is a connection to the past, a link to those who came before me.

I hope that you will enjoy making this bruschetta as much as I have. May it bring you joy and comfort, and may it become a part of your own family's culinary traditions. And remember, when you cook with love and passion, the flavors will always shine through. Bon appétit!