Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 cup of Piave Vecchio Riserva cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic.
3. Brush each slice of bread with the garlic-infused olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle the grated Piave Vecchio Riserva cheese on top of each slice of bread.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves on top.
8. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 6-8 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Piave Vecchio Riserva cheese, you can use Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese.
- You can use dried basil instead of fresh basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese before baking for a burst of freshness.
- Top with prosciutto or salami for a meatier version.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top for a tangy twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use a good quality crusty Italian bread for the best results.
- Grate the cheese finely for even melting.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the bruschetta in a preheated 375°F oven 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:
- Pair with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Serve as an appetizer before a pasta dish or pizza.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, try grating it more finely or placing the bruschetta under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when handling food.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food History:
Piave Vecchio Riserva is a hard Italian cheese made from cow's milk in the Piave River valley in the Veneto region of Italy.
Flavor Profiles:
Piave Vecchio Riserva cheese has a nutty and sweet flavor with a slightly sharp finish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or snack.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian