Appetizer > Italian Bruschettas

Casciotta di Urbino and Prosciutto Bruschetta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread, sliced
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
- 8 oz. of Casciotta di Urbino cheese, sliced
- 4 oz. of prosciutto, sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the bread slices with olive oil on both sides.
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 on one side of each bread slice.
5. Top each bread slice with a slice of Casciotta di Urbino cheese and a slice of prosciutto.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Place the bruschetta back on the grill for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan at medium-high heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total fat: 22g
Saturated fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 13g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Italian bread can be substituted with French bread or baguette.
- Casciotta di Urbino cheese can be substituted with any soft cheese such as brie or camembert.
- Prosciutto can be substituted with any cured meat such as salami or pancetta.

Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Substitute the prosciutto with cooked bacon or sliced ham.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for a touch of sweetness.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush the bread slices with enough olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cheese and prosciutto thinly for even distribution.
- Don't overcook the bruschetta as the cheese will become too runny.

Storage instructions:
Bruschetta is best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the bruschetta in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread slices are too thick, they may not cook through properly. Use thinner slices or slice the bread in half horizontally before grilling.
- If the cheese is not melting, cover the bruschetta with a lid or foil to trap the heat and melt the cheese.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bruschetta to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.

Food history:
Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that originated in central Italy. It is typically made with grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. This variation with Casciotta di Urbino and prosciutto is a twist on the classic recipe.

Flavor profiles:
The bruschetta has a savory and salty flavor from the Casciotta di Urbino cheese and prosciutto, balanced by the sweetness of the grilled bread and the freshness of the basil.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the bruschetta as an appetizer or as part of a light lunch or dinner. It is perfect for entertaining or for a quick and easy meal.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Creamy, Savory, Salty, Tangy