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Bruschetta con Pomodori, Basilico e l’Aceto Balsamico

Grilled Country Bread with Tomatoes, Basil and Balsamic Vinegar



Everyone loves this bruschetta! The topping is great served with grilled fish, shrimp or chicken.


 
Serves 4

  • Topping:
  • 12

    ounces seeded, diced ripe tomatoes (3-4 medium)

  • 2

    tablespoons diced red onion

  • 4

    tablespoons fresh basil, julienned

  • 1

    tablespoon balsamic vinegar (5-8 years old)

  •  

    freshly ground black pepper to taste


  • Bruschetta:
  • 8

    slices white, sourdough or wholewheat Italian bread, (select loaf about 2 1/2" wide, cut into 1/2" thick slices)

  • 1

    large garlic clove, split in half

  •  

    extra-virgin olive oil

1. Combine the topping ingredients, toss well, cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving to blend the flavors. During this time, the tomato juice forms a natural sauce with the vinegar that will delicately coat the bread. This mix tastes freshest when made and served within a few hours.

2. Preheat a broiler or outdoor grill. Place the bread slices flat on the broiler pan or grill rack. Broil or grill for 1-2 minutes, turn over and continue for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown on each side. Remove the bread from the heat, rub one side of each slice with the cut side of garlic, then brush a little extra-virgin olive oil on top to moisten. Mound 1/4 cup topping on each warm bruschetta and serve immediately.

Mary Beth's Chef's Tip: For a non-fat version, select juicy tomatoes that make more sauce to compensate for no oil moistening the bread. Immerse 2 crushed garlic cloves in the chopped tomatoes for additional flavor, and remove the garlic before serving. Toast bread, do not brush with oil, and put tomatoes with juices on top.

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