Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread, sliced into ½ inch thick pieces
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of Casu Friscu cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Oven or grill
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven or grill to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Casu Friscu cheese, minced garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil. Mix well.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the sliced Italian bread on a baking sheet and brush each slice with olive oil.
5. Bake or grill the bread slices for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the bread slices from the oven or grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Spoon the tomato and cheese mixture onto each bread slice.
8. Garnish each bruschetta with fresh basil leaves.
9. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven or grill temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 245
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Casu Friscu cheese can be substituted with feta cheese or goat cheese.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with diced Roma tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano to the tomato and cheese mixture.
- Top the bruschetta with sliced black olives or roasted red peppers.
Tips and tricks:
- Use day-old bread for a crispier texture.
- Make sure to brush each bread slice with olive oil to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Serve the bruschetta immediately to prevent the bread from becoming too soft.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover tomato and cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Store any leftover bread slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bread slices, place them in a preheated oven or toaster oven for a few minutes until they are warm and crispy.
- Do not reheat the tomato and cheese mixture as it will become too soft.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the bruschetta on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the bruschetta on individual plates for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- This bruschetta pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the bruschetta with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread becomes too soft, try toasting it again in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the cherry tomatoes before using them in the recipe.
- Store any leftover tomato and cheese mixture in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food history:
- Bruschetta originated in Italy and was traditionally made with grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil and salt.
Flavor profiles:
- The Casu Friscu cheese adds a tangy and salty flavor to the bruschetta, while the cherry tomatoes add a sweet and juicy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bruschetta as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.
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Region: Italian