Bruschetta bowl — a medley of Italian flavors in a single dish. An easy-to-enjoy twist of the classic Italian appetiser.
For me less is more, that’s why I love so much Italian food, and a bruschetta is definitely one of the examples of how a dish can be beautiful, delicious and impressively easy to make.
I often serve this in small bowls for guests at a dinner party, it doesn’t make any mess and it’s ready in 15 minutes.
What is Bruschetta?
Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer consisting of grilled bread rubbed with garlic, topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
What is the best bread for bruschetta?
The best bread for bruschetta is typically an Italian rustic bread or a baguette. These bread types have a sturdy texture that holds up well when toasted and topped with the flavorful ingredients of bruschetta.
What is bruschetta topping made of?
Bruschetta topping is made of diced tomatoes, fresh garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a flavorful and refreshing topping for the toasted bread in the classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta.
Ingredients list for 4 servings
2 slices Italian bread, cubed
12 kalamata olives or any other black olives, sliced
8-10 fresh basil leaves
1 cup ripe tomatoes, peeled, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper, to taste
How to make Bruschetta Bowls
- Preheat the oven at 360º F / 180º C.
- Transfer the bread cubes to a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. In the middle of the process, shake the tray to brown all croutons evenly.
- To help peeling the tomatoes, make a small X with a knife to one side of each tomato and place them into boiling water on a small pan for 15 seconds, then pass it through running water. Peel the tomatoes with your hands.
- To a medium bowl, add the cubed tomatoes, olives, croutons and drizzle olive oil. Toss to coat and taste for salt. If needed, add more.
- Alternatively, transfer to 4 small cups, garnish each with basil leaves and serve as an appetizer.
What pairs with bruschetta?
Bruschetta pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Some popular pairings include:
Cheese: Serve alongside fresh mozzarella, goat cheese, or ricotta for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Wine: Pair bruschetta with a light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Prosciutto: Add a touch of saltiness by pairing bruschetta with thin slices of prosciutto.
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the bruschetta for an extra layer of sweetness and depth.
Mixed Greens: Place a handful of arugula or mixed greens on top for a fresh and vibrant twist.
Avocado: For a creamy element, consider adding sliced avocado or guacamole to complement the tomatoes.
What to serve Bruschetta with:
We suggest serving as appetizer or side dish for these options:
Rustic Mediterranean Vegetables Pie
5-Minute Apple & Ginger Ale Spritzer
Storage
Refrigeration: If your bruschetta contains perishable ingredients like tomatoes and fresh herbs, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Separate Components: If possible, store the bread separately from the topping. This helps maintain the bread’s crispiness.
Use Within 24 Hours: For the best taste and texture, consume refrigerated bruschetta within 24 hours. The tomatoes may release moisture, potentially affecting the bread’s crispiness over time.
Reheating: If the bread loses its crunch, consider toasting it briefly in the oven before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought bruschetta mix?
Absolutely! Store-bought bruschetta mix can be a convenient option, but don’t hesitate to customize it by adding fresh ingredients like extra tomatoes or basil for a personal touch.
Can I make a bruschetta bowl ahead of time?
Certainly! Prep the ingredients ahead and assemble the bowl just before serving to maintain the freshness of the tomatoes and herbs. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy days.
What are some creative toppings for a bruschetta bowl?
Avocado slices, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of pine nuts can add unique flavors and textures to your bruschetta bowl. Experiment and find your favorite combination.
Can I turn a bruschetta bowl into a party appetizer?
Serve the bruschetta in smaller portions with toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer at gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of classic bruschetta in a convenient and shareable format.
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Bruschetta Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 slices Italian bread
- 12 black olives we used kalamata, but any olive work
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven at 360º F / 180º C.
- Transfer the bread cubes to a baking tray and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. In the middle of the process, shake the tray to brown all croutons evenly.
- To help peeling the tomatoes, make a small X with a knife to one side of each tomato and place them into boiling water on a small pan for 15 seconds, then pass it through running water. Peel the tomatoes with your hands.
- To a medium bowl, add the cubed tomatoes, olives, croutons and drizzle olive oil. Toss to coat and taste for salt. If needed, add more.
- Alternatively, transfer to 4 small cups, garnish each with basil leaves and serve as an appetizer.
