Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread
- 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
- 1/2 cup of Caciotta di Brugnato cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cut the bread into 1/2-inch slices and brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Grill the bread slices for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are lightly toasted and have grill marks.
4. Rub the garlic clove halves over the grilled bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the grated Caciotta di Brugnato cheese over the bread slices.
6. Place the bread slices back on the grill or grill pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the bread slices from the grill and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan over medium-high heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any crusty bread can be used instead of the recommended bread.
- Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese can be substituted for the Caciotta di Brugnato cheese.
- Fresh oregano or parsley can be used instead of basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the cheese before grilling.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze or honey over the finished bruschetta.
- Top with prosciutto or salami for a heartier appetizer.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush both sides of the bread with olive oil to prevent sticking to the grill.
- Use a cheese grater to grate the cheese finely for even melting.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the melted cheese at its best.
Storage instructions:
Bruschetta is best served fresh and should not be stored for more than a few hours.
Reheating instructions:
Bruschetta can be reheated in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze, honey, sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, prosciutto, or salami.
Pairings:
This bruschetta pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread is sticking to the grill, brush more olive oil on both sides.
- If the cheese is not melting, cover the grill or grill pan with a lid to trap the heat.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bruschetta to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Food history:
Caciotta di Brugnato is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk in the Liguria region of Italy. Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer made with grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with various toppings.
Flavor profiles:
This bruschetta has a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and fresh basil.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or a light meal.
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Region: Italian