Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of Knockalara semi-hard sheep's cheese, grated
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
3. Bake the bread slices for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix the tomato mixture well and set it aside.
6. Once the bread slices are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Spread the tomato mixture evenly on each bread slice.
8. Sprinkle the grated Knockalara semi-hard sheep's cheese on top of the tomato mixture.
9. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bruschetta cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 8-10 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 290mg
Sugar: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but a crusty bread works best.
- If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead.
- Any type of hard cheese can be used as a substitute for Knockalara semi-hard sheep's cheese.
Variations:
- You can add sliced black olives or chopped red onions to the tomato mixture for added flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
- You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of the bruschetta for a tangy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush the bread slices with enough olive oil to prevent them from drying out in the oven.
- Don't over-bake the bruschetta, as the cheese can become tough and rubbery.
- Serve the bruschetta immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture.
Storage instructions:
If you have any leftover bruschetta, store it 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:
This bruschetta pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread slices are too thick, they may not cook evenly in the oven. Make sure to slice them thinly for best results.
- If the cheese is not melting properly, try grating it finer or placing the bruschetta under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store any leftover bruschetta in the refrigerator and consume it within 2 days.
Food history:
Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that originated in central Italy. It typically consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil and salt.
Flavor profiles:
This bruschetta has a savory and slightly tangy flavor from the tomatoes and cheese, with a hint of garlic and basil.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this bruschetta as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Related Categories
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Region: Irish
Taste: Savory, Tangy, Creamy, Herbaceous, Cheesy