Balsamic Bruschetta Recipe

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Cook Time: 5 minutes

This crowd-pleasing bruschetta recipe proves that when summertime gives you perfectly ripe and juicy tomatoes, one of the best ways to enjoy them is also one of the easiest.

Bruschetta (pronounced brew-SKET-tah) is an Italian appetizer that starts with a base of toasted or grilled bread. The bread is served warm with a topping spooned over, or with the topping on the side, so each person can build their own bruschetta. Its a hand-held finger food, usually large enough for one or two bites.

Heres how to make it:

Best Bread for Bruschetta

The best bread for bruschetta has a sturdy crust and is firm enough to hold the topping. Traditional choices include Italian breads like ciabatta, but you can also use French bread, like a baguette. Slice it on the diagonal into -inch thick slices for that perfect oval shape.

How to Make Bruschetta

Youll find the full recipe below, but lets go over a few tips for making the best bruschetta every time:

• Quality Counts: Since this recipe is simple, it highlights the flavor of each ingredient. Choose ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, the best olive oil, and balsamic vinegar you can find. Freshly grated Parmesan will make a huge difference too, so avoid pre-grated versions.
• Garlic Tip: For a more subtle garlic flavor, rub the cut side of a peeled garlic clove over the toasted bread, instead of mixing it directly into the tomato mixture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can rub more garlic onto the bread.
• Be Patient: Let the tomato mixture sit for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to blend. If the mixture becomes too juicy, simply use a slotted spoon when serving. If you prefer, wait until the last minute to top the bread, so it doesnt become soggy.

What to Serve With Bruschetta

Bruschetta makes for a perfect starter or side. Turn it into a full meal by pairing it with Italian classics like:

• Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
• Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
• Crispy Baked Chicken with Giardiniera

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into -inch slices
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 8 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
• cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• teaspoon kosher salt
• teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
2. Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Place them on a large baking sheet.
3. Toast the bread in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. While the bread is toasting, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic in a bowl.
5. Add the balsamic vinegar, 2 teaspoons of olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper to the tomato mixture. Mix well.
6. Once the bread is toasted, spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of bread.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	197
Total Fat	4g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	3mg
Sodium	484mg
Total Carbohydrates	33g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Protein	8g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	70mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	88mg

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer, and this version, featuring balsamic vinegar, offers a refreshing twist on the traditional recipe. Sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, and high-quality balsamic vinegar come together on toasted bread, creating an irresistible dish. But what makes this dish so special? Lets take a deeper dive into its origins, regional variations, and more.

History and Origin

The origins of bruschetta date back to ancient Italy, where it was originally a way to preserve bread. The term "bruschetta" comes from the Italian word "bruscare," which means "to toast" or "to roast." Traditionally, farmers in Italy would toast stale bread and rub it with garlic, then drizzle it with olive oil. Over time, this simple dish evolved with added toppings, like tomatoes, basil, and cheese, making it a beloved appetizer in Italian cuisine.

Regional Features

Bruschetta varies across Italy, with different regions offering unique twists. In central and southern Italy, especially in Tuscany and Lazio, the toppings often include tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. However, in the north, you might encounter versions that feature more robust toppings like mushrooms or beans. The use of balsamic vinegar in this recipe is a common feature of dishes from Modena, a region famous for producing high-quality balsamic vinegar. The combination of tangy balsamic and fresh tomato elevates this bruschetta, giving it a distinct flavor that cant be found in every version of the dish.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While bruschetta is similar to crostini, there is a key difference: crostini is typically smaller, thinner slices of bread topped with a variety of ingredients. Bruschetta, on the other hand, is often larger slices of toasted bread, traditionally topped with tomatoes and olive oil. Additionally, while many appetizers use vinegar, the addition of balsamic vinegar in this recipe imparts a unique sweetness and depth of flavor that differentiates it from more basic olive oil-based bruschetta varieties.

Where It Is Typically Served

Bruschetta is commonly served as an appetizer or snack across Italy, especially in the summer when tomatoes are in season. Its often served at casual gatherings, like family meals or parties, and is a popular choice for outdoor events. This dish is also frequently offered in Italian restaurants as a starter before the main course. The fresh and light nature of the dish makes it perfect for sharing with friends and family, often paired with a glass of wine or aperitivo.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that the quality of the bread used in bruschetta is crucial to the dishs success? Traditional Italian bruschetta calls for hearty, rustic loaves of bread with a thick crust, which helps the bread hold up against the juicy tomato mixture without becoming soggy. Another fun fact: the word "bruschetta" is sometimes misused in popular culture. Many people refer to the topping itself (tomatoes, garlic, and basil) as "bruschetta," but technically, the name refers to the bread. So, when youre enjoying this delicious appetizer, youre actually eating "bruschetta with tomato topping!"

Conclusion

This Balsamic Bruschetta recipe brings together the best of Italian flavors with a modern twist. Whether served at a dinner party or as a simple snack, its an easy-to-make and universally loved dish. By using high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar, this recipe stands out as a flavorful, savory treat that's as rich in history as it is in taste.

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