What is Bruschetta?
Edward Bottone is a food and lifestyle journalist, a former chef and restaurateur, TV and radio presenter, and culinary educator.
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Bruschetta (pronounced bɾus’ketta NOT brushet’ta) are popular Italian toasted or grilled bread slices rubbed with garlic, sometimes topped with tomatoes and basil, and increasingly with more diverse ingredients, and date from the 15th century. Meant to be part of the panoply of delights called antipasto. The word “antipasto” literally means “before the meal,” and it is often served before the main course as a way to stimulate the appetite and offer guests a variety of flavors and textures.
Some variations on the theme of the classic tomato bruschetta may include:
A Mushroom Bruschetta is made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs. It is usually topped with grated cheese, such as parmesan or pecorino.
Artichoke Bruschetta is made with artichoke hearts, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. It is often topped with grated cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
Ricotta and Honey Bruschetta is made with creamy ricotta cheese and drizzled with honey.
Prosciutto and Fig Bruschetta is made with salty prosciutto, sweet figs, and tangy balsamic vinegar.
White Bean and Roasted Garlic Bruschetta is made with white beans, roasted garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
Pesto and Mozzarella Bruschetta made with pesto, fresh mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes.
