Mozzarella, Cherry Tomato, and Basil Bruschetta
Ingredients:
1 baguette or rustic bread (sliced into 1-inch thick pieces)
8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into slices or torn into chunks)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
Balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the sliced bread on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can toast the bread slices in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until crisp and lightly browned.
Prepare the Toppings:
While the bread is toasting, halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.
Tear or slice the mozzarella into small pieces. If using larger mozzarella balls, ensure the pieces are bite-sized.
Assemble the Bruschetta:
Once the bread is toasted, place it on a rustic wooden board or serving platter.
Layer each toasted bread slice with a piece of mozzarella.
Top with halved cherry tomatoes, arranging them neatly.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tops of the bruschetta.
Sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
Finish with Basil and Serve:
Garnish each piece with a fresh basil leaf or two.
For added flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the bruschetta, if desired.
Serve immediately with a few extra drops of olive oil on the board and a stray basil leaf nearby for that rustic, homemade touch.
Tips:
For an even richer flavor, you can lightly melt the mozzarella in the oven for a minute or two before assembling the bruschetta.
Try using heirloom cherry tomatoes for a variety of colors and flavors.
To keep it even more rustic, serve the bruschetta with a few leftover tomatoes and an olive oil bottle with a smudged label in the background for an authentic touch.
Enjoy your cozy, homemade bruschetta in a warm kitchen setting! The combination of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil will give you the perfect balance of flavors and textures.