Tomato and Herb Bruschetta

Vegetarian Italian Tomato and Herb Bruschetta Recipe

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tomato and Herb Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light and refreshing snack. This dish is bursting with fresh flavors from ripe plum tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty oregano. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil adds a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

History

Bruschetta originated in Italy, where it was traditionally served as a way to use up stale bread. The word "bruschetta" comes from the Italian verb "bruscare," which means "to roast over coals." Over time, the dish evolved to include a variety of toppings, with tomato and herb bruschetta becoming one of the most popular variations.

Ingredients

2 tsp of chopped fresh oregano or 0.5 tsp of dried oregano
1 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
1 tsp of fresh lemon juice
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Six 0.5 inch to 0.75 inch-thick slices of crusty bread, grilled or toasted
0.33 cup of chopped fresh basil
1.5 lb (680 g) of ripe plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 small clove of garlic, minced

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, gently mix together tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, oil, vinegar, and lemon juice.
Season with salt and pepper.
To serve, cut the grilled bread slices in half.
Place the slices on serving plates and spoon the tomato mixture over them.

Variations

Add diced mozzarella cheese or feta cheese for a creamy texture.
Top the bruschetta with sliced olives or capers for a salty kick.
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a sweeter flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe plum tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- Seeding the tomatoes before chopping will prevent the bruschetta from becoming too watery.

- Grilling or toasting the bread slices will add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato and Herb Bruschetta as an appetizer before a meal, or enjoy it as a light lunch or snack. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling or toasting the bread slices will add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. Be sure to keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes in place of plum tomatoes.

- Substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs if fresh herbs are not available.

- Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of balsamic vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation. Serve with a side of mixed greens for a colorful and appetizing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato and Herb Bruschetta pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, pasta dishes, and seafood. It also pairs nicely with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

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 preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato and Herb Bruschetta contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato and Herb Bruschetta contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato and Herb Bruschetta contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato and Herb Bruschetta contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread. It may also contain traces of nuts if the bread is made in a facility that processes nuts.

Summary

Tomato and Herb Bruschetta is a light and healthy dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful appetizer without consuming too many calories.

Summary

Tomato and Herb Bruschetta is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this classic Italian appetizer with friends and family for a taste of summer all year round.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria's house for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the intoxicating aroma of fresh tomatoes and herbs.

Maria greeted me with a smile and handed me a glass of iced tea. "I hope you're hungry," she said. "I'm making my famous Tomato and Herb Bruschetta for lunch today."

I watched as Maria worked her magic in the kitchen, chopping ripe tomatoes, mincing garlic, and tearing fragrant basil leaves. She then mixed everything together in a bowl with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The colors and smells were so vibrant and inviting, I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

As Maria toasted slices of crusty bread in the oven, she told me the story of how she learned to make this delicious dish. She explained that she had first discovered it while traveling through Italy many years ago. She had stumbled upon a small trattoria in a quaint village, where the owner had generously shared his family recipe with her.

Maria had been so taken with the flavors of the Tomato and Herb Bruschetta that she had begged the owner to teach her how to make it. He had graciously agreed, and she had spent the afternoon in his kitchen, watching and learning as he prepared the dish with skill and precision.

After that, Maria had made the recipe her own, adding her own special touch with extra garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. She had since shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness.

When the bruschetta was ready, Maria piled the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread and sprinkled it with fresh basil leaves. The colors were so vibrant and inviting, I couldn't resist taking a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, the sweetness of the tomatoes balanced perfectly by the sharpness of the garlic and the tang of the vinegar.

As I savored each bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself. Maria was kind enough to write it down for me, and I tucked the piece of paper into my purse, vowing to make it for my own family soon.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Tomato and Herb Bruschetta countless times. I have shared it at family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, and it has always been a hit. Each time I make it, I think of Maria and that warm summer day in her kitchen, where I first fell in love with this delicious dish.

The recipe has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to it and for sharing her passion for cooking with me.

As I continue to explore new recipes and flavors, the Tomato and Herb Bruschetta will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the joy of discovering new dishes, the beauty of sharing them with loved ones, and the magic of food to transport us to faraway places with just one bite.