Bruschetta with Mozzarella Recipe

Cook Time: 1 minute

Ingredients

• 2 cups halved grape tomatoes, well drained
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 (1/2-inch thick) diagonal slices of baguette
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Place the tomatoes, mozzarella, sliced basil, garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Gently fold together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mixture aside.
2. Adjust the oven rack to about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler. Brush both sides of the baguette slices with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil until lightly coated. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and season with a pinch of salt.
3. Broil the baguette slices for about 1 minute, or until lightly browned and crispy, making sure to watch carefully to avoid burning.
4. Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. Immediately spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of baguette. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve right away.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	233
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	2g	9%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	382mg	17%
Total Carbohydrate	33g	12%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	8g	16%
Vitamin C	11mg	12%
Calcium	70mg	5%
Iron	3mg	14%
Potassium	256mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Bruschetta with Mozzarella is a classic Italian appetizer, simple in its ingredients yet bursting with fresh flavors. Originating from Italy, this dish combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar on crispy, toasted bread. Its a dish that highlights the quality of each ingredient, and its popularity spans far beyond its Italian roots.

History of Bruschetta

The origins of bruschetta date back to the Roman era, where it was originally a way to utilize stale bread. The word "bruschetta" comes from the Italian verb "bruscare," which means "to roast over coals." This method of toasting bread was a practical way of reviving old, dry bread. The classic topping was olive oil, garlic, and salt, but over time, regional variations developed. The addition of tomatoes and mozzarella, popularized in the southern parts of Italy, evolved into what we know today as bruschetta with mozzarella.

Regional Variations

While bruschetta is enjoyed all over Italy, each region has its own take on the dish. In Central Italy, the bread is often rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil, while in Southern Italy, the dish typically includes tomatoes and basil. The version with mozzarella is particularly popular in regions like Campania and Lazio, where fresh mozzarella, such as the famous buffalo mozzarella, is widely available. Some variations also feature other ingredients like olives or anchovies, depending on local tastes and availability.

What Sets Bruschetta with Mozzarella Apart

Bruschetta with mozzarella stands out due to the addition of creamy, soft mozzarella, which pairs wonderfully with the acidity of fresh tomatoes and the aromatic sweetness of basil. This dish differs from other Italian appetizers like crostini, which are typically made with similar bread but often have more elaborate toppings, such as pt or cheese spreads. Bruschetta is known for its simplicity, letting the quality of the fresh ingredients shine, while other appetizers might have more complex or heavier flavors.

Where It Is Typically Served

Bruschetta with mozzarella is a versatile dish that can be served as a starter or a light snack. It is commonly found on menus at Italian trattorias and cafes, often paired with a glass of chilled white wine or a light red wine. In Italy, it is also frequently enjoyed as part of a larger antipasto spread, especially during summer when tomatoes are at their peak. Outside of Italy, it has become a popular appetizer in Italian restaurants worldwide and is often served at casual gatherings or as a quick snack before dinner.

Fun Facts About Bruschetta

• Bruschetta is often confused with "crostini," but they are different. Crostini typically refers to smaller, thinner slices of toasted bread with a variety of toppings.
• In Italy, it is common to serve bruschetta with a variety of toppings, from beans and sausages to various types of cheese.
• The quality of the bread used for bruschetta is crucial. In Italy, rustic, country-style bread is preferred, and the bread is usually toasted over an open flame for the best flavor.
• The classic combination of tomato and mozzarella is often called "Caprese," named after the island of Capri, and has become synonymous with fresh, Italian ingredients.
• Bruschetta with mozzarella has become a symbol of the Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs.

FAQ about Bruschetta with Mozzarella Recipe