Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup Auricchio cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Oven or toaster oven
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
3. Bake the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes or until they are lightly toasted.
4. Rub the garlic halves over the toasted baguette slices.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and grated Auricchio cheese.
6. Drizzle the tomato mixture with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Spoon the tomato mixture over the garlic-rubbed baguette slices.
8. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-14 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 12-14 bruschetta slices.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Auricchio cheese can be substituted with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil.
Variations:
- Add chopped olives or capers to the tomato mixture for a briny flavor.
- Top the bruschetta with sliced prosciutto or salami for a meaty twist.
- Substitute the tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure even toasting.
- Rubbing the garlic over the toasted bread adds a subtle garlic flavor without being overpowering.
- Letting the bruschetta cool for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set and prevents the tomato mixture from sliding off the bread.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover bruschetta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bruschetta, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve the bruschetta with a glass of red wine for a perfect pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad or a bowl of soup would make a great side dish to this bruschetta.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, try broiling the bruschetta for a minute or two to melt the cheese.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store any leftover bruschetta in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food history:
- Bruschetta originated in Italy and is traditionally made with grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with tomatoes and olive oil.
Flavor profiles:
- This bruschetta has a combination of tangy tomatoes, nutty Auricchio cheese, and fresh basil.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bruschetta as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.
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Region: Italian