Bruschetta with or Without Cheese

Transform your appetizer game with this irresistible recipe for Bruschetta with or Without Cheese! Featuring juicy, ripe tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and a drizzle of premium extra virgin olive oil, this classic Italian starter comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight indulgence. The toasted baguette slices, infused with a subtle hint of garlic, serve as the ideal crisp base for the marinated tomato topping. For added indulgence, melt soft mozzarella onto the bread for a creamy, cheesy twist. Whether served as a vibrant side dish or an elegant party appetizer, this versatile bruschetta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that celebrates fresh, simple ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes
• 8 leaves fresh basil leaves
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 loaf baguette or Italian bread
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Dice the tomatoes into small cubes and transfer them to a medium bowl.

Step 2

Chop the basil leaves finely and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.

Step 3

Mince one garlic clove finely and mix it into the tomato-basil mixture.

Step 4

Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomato mixture, and season with salt and black pepper. Gently toss to combine. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 5

Meanwhile, slice the baguette or Italian loaf into 1/2-inch thick slices. You should get about 12 slices.

Step 6

Toast the bread slices on a grill pan or under the broiler until they are lightly golden and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 7

Rub the second garlic clove lightly over one side of each toasted slice for added flavor.

Step 8

Optional: If using mozzarella cheese, cut the cheese into thin slices. Place a slice of mozzarella on each piece of toast and slightly melt it under a broiler or in a hot oven for 1-2 minutes.

Step 9

Spoon the tomato-basil mixture generously onto the toasted bread slices.

Step 10

Serve immediately and enjoy your bruschetta with or without cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1054.3 grams (1054.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1770

Total Fat 55.30g	71%
Saturated Fat 19.40g	97%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 89mg	30%
Sodium 3920mg	170%
Total Carbohydrate 254.70g	93%
Dietary Fiber 17.20g	61%
Total Sugars 20.80g
Protein 65.40g	131%

Vitamin D 24IU	122%
Calcium 730mg	56%
Iron 13mg	71%
Potassium 1786mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.0%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 57.3%