Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 8 oz. scamorza cheese, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Grill or grill pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Grill the bread slices for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly charred and crispy.
4. Rub each slice of bread with a garlic clove half.
5. Top each slice of bread with a spoonful of diced tomatoes and a generous amount of grated scamorza cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the baking sheet with the topped bread slices back on the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves for garnish.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 11g
Sodium: 420mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baguette can be substituted with any crusty bread.
- Scamorza cheese can be substituted with mozzarella or provolone cheese.
- Fresh basil leaves can be substituted with dried basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced prosciutto or salami on top of the tomatoes and cheese.
- Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder flavor.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top of the bruschetta for a tangy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the grill or grill pan is hot before grilling the bread slices.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Grate the cheese finely for even melting.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover bruschetta 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 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:
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread slices are not crispy enough, grill them for an additional minute on each side.
- If the cheese is not melted enough, place the baking sheet with the topped bread slices back on the grill for an additional minute.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils used in the preparation of this recipe to avoid cross-contamination.
Food history:
Bruschetta originated in Italy and was traditionally made with grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil and salt. It has since evolved to include various toppings, such as tomatoes and cheese.
Flavor profiles:
This bruschetta has a savory and slightly smoky flavor from the grilled bread and melted cheese, balanced with the sweetness of the diced tomatoes and the freshness of the basil leaves.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this bruschetta as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.
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Region: Italian