Bruschetta with Mozzarella is a fresh and vibrant appetizer that elevates your dining experience with its delicious combination of flavors. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms traditional bruschetta by incorporating creamy mozzarella, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or meal.
To prepare this delightful dish, start by toasting slices of crusty bread until golden brown. Then, top them with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a burst of flavor. Add slices of creamy mozzarella to enhance the richness of each bite.
Ideal for serving as an appetizer or a light snack, Bruschetta with Mozzarella offers a harmonious blend of fresh, tangy, and creamy flavors that are sure to impress your guests similar to Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes. Each bite showcases the perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a must-try recipe. Experience the deliciousness of Bruschetta with Mozzarella and add a delightful twist to your recipe collection!
Overview: How To Make Bruschetta With Mozzarella?
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of halved grape tomatoes, 4 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese (cut into 1/4-inch cubes), 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced fresh basil leaves, 2 pressed cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1/2 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Preheat your broiler and position an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Lightly brush 8 diagonal slices of baguette with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Broil the baguette slices for about 1 minute, or until they are lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 4: Spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture onto the toasted baguette slices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for a delicious appetizer.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- Simple Yet Flavorful: This recipe brings together just a few fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a burst of flavor. The ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil create a perfect harmony that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just a 10-minute prep time and only 1 minute under the broiler, it’s a hassle-free recipe that’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a casual dinner, a snack for a get-together, or as part of a larger Italian-themed meal, this bruschetta fits right in. It’s also easy to adapt—add a splash of balsamic glaze, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or even some sliced olives for a personalized touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of crispy, toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh and flavorful tomato mixture appeals to everyone. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress both family and friends, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Bruschetta With Mozzarella
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Broiler or Oven
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 2 cups halved grape tomatoes, well drained
- 8 diagonal slices baguette
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp thinly sliced fresh basil leave
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, sliced basil, garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
- Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- Position an oven rack approximately 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler.
- Lightly brush the baguette slices with the remaining olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt.
- Broil for about 1 minute, or until they are lightly browned, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Just before serving, spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes.Â
- You can prepare the tomato and mozzarella mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- For added flavor, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction or extra virgin olive oil over the assembled bruschetta just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 233 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Vitamin C | 11 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Calcium | 71 mg |
Tips that Are Worth Mentioning!
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use ripe, juicy grape or cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh mozzarella should be soft and creamy, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth to the taste.
- Drain the Tomatoes Well: To prevent soggy bruschetta, make sure the grape tomatoes are well-drained before mixing. Excess moisture can make the toasted bread less crisp.
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves provide the brightest flavor. If you can, avoid using dried basil as it lacks the freshness that complements the other ingredients.
- Toast the Bread Properly: For the crispiest baguette slices, toast them just until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them while broiling to avoid burning. A quick toast ensures they stay crunchy and hold up well against the tomato topping.
- Add Garlic to Taste: Pressed garlic adds a nice kick to the tomato mixture. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can rub a cut garlic clove on the toasted bread before adding the tomato topping.
What To Serve With Bruschetta With Mozzarella?
- Mulled Wine
- Chicken and Mushroom Soup
- Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Mediterranean Bean Salad
- Air Fryer Grilled Vegetables
FAQs
Q: What Does The Term Bruschetta Mean In Italian?
A: Bruschetta comes from the Italian word bruscare, which means “to roast over coals.” This classic garlic bread is prepared by rubbing toasted bread slices with garlic cloves and drizzling them with extra-virgin olive oil.
Q: How Should Bruschetta Be Eaten?
A: To enjoy bruschetta neatly, hold it with one hand while supporting the bread with the other hand beneath it, forming a cup.
Q: In Which Country Did Bruschetta Originate?
A: Bruschetta originated in Italy and is typically served as an appetizer. It consists of a slice of bread rubbed with garlic, drizzled with olive oil, and topped with small cubes of fresh tomatoes and basil.
Q: Can I Use Dried Basil Instead Of Fresh Basil?
A: Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma for this recipe. If you must use dried basil, use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor. Add it to the tomato mixture, but keep in mind the taste won’t be quite as fresh.
Q: Can I Freeze Bruschetta With Mozzarella?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze assembled bruschetta as the bread will become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the toasted baguette slices and the tomato mixture separately. Reheat the bread in the oven and mix the tomato topping fresh before serving.