Queijo do Pico and Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread, sliced
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/4 tsp of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of Queijo do Pico cheese, crumbled

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl

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. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

4. Top each bread slice with the tomato mixture and sprinkle with crumbled Queijo do Pico cheese.

5. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve the bruschetta warm.


- Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of bread can be used instead of crusty bread.
- Feta cheese can be used instead of Queijo do Pico cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced olives to the tomato mixture for a salty twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
- Add a drizzle of honey to the tomato mixture for a sweet and savory flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to brush the bread slices with olive oil to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Serve the bruschetta immediately after baking for the best texture.

Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover bruschetta 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 until warmed 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, such as Pinot Grigio.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the bruschetta with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the bread slices become too crispy, reduce the baking time.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce before using it in the recipe.

Food History:
- Bruschetta originated in Italy and was traditionally made with bread, garlic, and olive oil.

Flavor Profiles:
- This bruschetta has a savory and tangy flavor from the tomatoes and balsamic vinegar, with a creamy and salty flavor from the Queijo do Pico cheese.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this bruschetta as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.

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Region: Portuguese

Taste: Tangy, Savory, Cheesy, Herbal, Garlicky, Fresh