Bruschetta al Pomodoro: A Simple and Flavorful Italian Antipasto
Bruschetta al pomodoro is a delightful Italian appetizer that combines the fresh taste of ripe tomatoes with the crisp texture of grilled bread, making it an ideal start to any meal. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners, this dish is full of vibrant flavors and can be enjoyed by all ages. Letโs dive into how you can prepare this simple yet delicious recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Homemade bread (Pane casereccio) | 8 slices |
| Ripe tomatoes (Pomodori ramati) | 500g (about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes) |
| Fresh basil leaves (Basilico) | 8 leaves |
| Dried oregano (Origano) | To taste (q.b.) |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | To taste (q.b.) |
| Salt (Sale fino) | To taste (q.b.) |
| Black pepper (Pepe nero) | To taste (q.b.) |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Once clean, cut them in half, remove the seeds if you prefer a drier topping, and chop them into small cubes. Place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl. -
Add Fresh Basil:
Take the fresh basil leaves and tear them into smaller pieces by hand to release their fragrance. Add the basil to the chopped tomatoes. -
Season the Tomato Mixture:
Sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano over the tomatoes and basil mixture. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the ingredients and toss everything together gently. This will allow the tomatoes and basil to soak in the flavors. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. While this step is optional, it is highly recommended to enhance the taste. -
Grill the Bread:
While the tomato mixture rests, prepare the homemade bread (or your choice of rustic bread). Cut it into slices, ensuring they are thick enough to hold the tomato topping but thin enough to toast easily. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. -
Toast the Bread:
Once the grill is hot, place the bread slices on it. Grill them for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and slightly charred. You want the bread to be crisp and crunchy, creating the perfect base for the fresh tomato mixture. -
Assemble the Bruschetta:
After grilling, remove the bread slices from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each slice of bread. Make sure to distribute the basil and juices evenly over the bread for maximum flavor. -
Finish and Serve:
For an extra touch, drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the bruschetta and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and the tomato mixture is fresh.
Tips and Variations
- Herb Variations: While basil and oregano are traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to personalize the flavor.
- Tomato Choices: Although plum or roma tomatoes are commonly used for bruschetta, any ripe, juicy variety will work well. The more flavorful the tomatoes, the better your bruschetta will taste.
- Add Cheese: For a richer version, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top of the tomatoes before serving. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
This bruschetta al pomodoro is best enjoyed fresh, making it the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether served as a light snack or as part of a larger Italian meal, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests. The balance of crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich olive oil will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Buon appetito!
