Bruschetta
However you choose to say it...
bru·schet·ta [broo-sket-uh, -shet-uh; Italian broo-sket-tah] = an Italian appetizer consisting of toasted bread slices drizzled with olive oil and usually topped with tomatoes and basil.
...is an Italian favorite of mine.
I happen to love anything garlic, and this is one food where I do like to taste the garlic. I also love tomatoes, especially fresh, ripe and juicy tomatoes! It's great having fresh tomatoes during the warmer months. If you have some fresh, or home grown tomatoes this is a great way to make use of them.
What I really enjoy about this dish is the fresh ingredients. I have made Bruschetta using fresh tomatoes and I've also made it using canned tomatoes. I do prefer making Bruschetta using fresh tomatoes, but it's not always possible to get really fresh or home grown tomatoes, so if you use good canned tomatoes that will work well, just drain most of the liquid. Bruschetta can be served as an appetizer or a side dish, and it will compliment most dishes, and goes very well with Italian foods.
Bruschetta - Tomato, Basil and Garlic
Ingredients:
3 medium or 2 large tomatoes-diced (or 1 - 14 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
extra-virgin olive oil
1 fresh head of garlic, separated into cloves, peeled
1 bread baguette to make 8-10 1/2 inch slices
Fresh grated parmesan cheese or parmigiana reggiano cheese
Directions:
Start by slicing baguette into 1/2 inch thick slices, then toast lightly on both sides. Cut two garlic cloves in half, then rub cut side of garlic onto one surface of the toasted baguette slices, this will be the top side(this step can be omitted if preferred). Chop 1-2 garlic cloves finely-(use garlic more-or-less to your liking). In medium bowl mix tomatoes, garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh basil(and/or fresh basil can be sprinkled on top as a garnish at the end). Using a pastry brush, lightly brush a little olive oil on the top side of each slice(this step can be omitted if preferred). Spoon mixture onto toasted bread slices. (Olive oil can be drizzled over the tops at this point if desired). Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh grated, or thin slices of parmigiana reggiano cheese/parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Enjoy!...
