Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread

Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that consists of grilled bread topped with a mixture of tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make version of the classic dish that is perfect for serving at parties or as a light snack.

History

Bruschetta has its origins 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 the tomato and basil version becoming one of the most popular variations.

Ingredients

6 medium roma tomatoes, chopped (about 2.5 to 3 cups)
0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, slivered and packed in olive oil
0.25 cup roasted garlic, chopped
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
0.5 cup pitted oil-cured olives, chopped
0.5 cup fresh basil, chopped
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
grated parmigiano reggiano cheese, to taste

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients except the cheese in a large bowl.
To serve, top the bruschetta with the tomato mixture.
Sprinkle with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
To roast your own garlic, preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Coat 0.25 cup of peeled whole garlic cloves with 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil.

Roasting garlic

Place the garlic in a small cast iron pan or a garlic roaster or a small dish that can be covered.
Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the garlic is tender, lightly golden, and very aromatic.

Variations

Add diced red onion or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Top with fresh mozzarella or feta cheese for a creamy twist.
Mix in diced avocado or roasted red peppers for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use ripe roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to chop the ingredients finely to ensure that they are evenly distributed on the bread.

- Toast the bread on a grill or in a skillet for a crispy texture.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread on toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delicious appetizer. It can also be served as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Roast the garlic to bring out its sweet and nutty flavor.

- Chop the ingredients finely for a more uniform texture.

- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

- Substitute fresh oregano or parsley for the basil.

- Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil instead of fresh tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tomato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Toast the bread just before serving to keep it crispy.

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 complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It also pairs well with a light beer or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover bruschetta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the mixture in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the bread and dairy from the cheese. It may also contain sulfites from the olives.

Summary

This Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread is a flavorful and nutritious appetizer that is high in fats and low in proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a light snack.

Summary

This Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for serving at parties or as a light snack. With its fresh and flavorful ingredients, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Traditional Tomato Bruschetta Spread. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a vast collection of recipes that she had acquired from various places and people over the years.

One day, as I was helping her prepare a simple meal in the kitchen, she pulled out a tattered old notebook from a drawer. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she opened the notebook to a page that was filled with handwritten notes and scribbles. "This," she said, pointing to the recipe on the page, "is a family favorite. It's a traditional tomato bruschetta spread that has been passed down through generations."

I watched in awe as she carefully walked me through the steps of making the spread. She explained how to dice the ripe tomatoes, mince the fresh garlic, and chop the fragrant basil leaves. She showed me how to drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture, and then season it with salt and pepper to taste. As she spoke, I could practically taste the delicious flavors coming together in my mind.

Once the spread was ready, she toasted slices of crusty Italian bread in the oven until they were golden brown and crispy. Then, she generously topped each slice with a spoonful of the tomato mixture, making sure to spread it evenly across the surface. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at the simplicity and elegance of the dish. The combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, all mingling together with the tang of the vinegar and the richness of the olive oil, was truly a feast for the senses. I savored each bite, savoring the flavors and textures that danced on my palate.

From that day on, the traditional tomato bruschetta spread became a staple in our family gatherings. Whenever we hosted a dinner party or a holiday meal, my grandmother would whip up a batch of the spread to serve as an appetizer. It never failed to impress our guests, who marveled at the depth of flavor and the freshness of the ingredients.

As the years passed and I grew older, I found myself reaching for that tattered old notebook more and more often. I experimented with new variations of the recipe, adding in different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. I shared the spread with friends and neighbors, who raved about its delicious taste and asked for the recipe.

I soon realized that the traditional tomato bruschetta spread was more than just a recipe to me. It was a connection to my grandmother, a link to the past that reminded me of the love and care she put into every dish she made. It was a symbol of the joy and creativity that can be found in the simple act of cooking, and the memories that can be shared around a table filled with good food and good company.

And so, as I stand here now, looking back on my life and all the recipes I have collected and created along the way, I know that the traditional tomato bruschetta spread will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of where I come from, and a testament to the power of food to bring people together in love and joy. And for that, I am forever grateful.