Happy Boy Recipes

Bruschetta

Bring Italian Flavor Almost Anywhere

Total Time: 15 - 20 Min Servings: 4-6 Appetizers


Posted by Tent

So, as I have stated before, it can be hard to incorporate some true Italian flavors into your every-day summer picnic, camping trip or BBQ. Hot pasta is usually not an option, caprese salad hard to transport {and plate in any kind of windy or sandy scenario} and don't even get me started on the intricacies of trying to reheat and serve eggplant parmesan out in the woods. Enter Bruschetta! Chop up beforehand, store and transport in a single container, toast up some bread or just buy some fancy chips or pre-toasted bready-crouton things, and you have some great, tasty, on-the-go Italian cuisine.

INGREDIENTS
2 - 3 lbs heirloom or dry farm tomatoes {I like a nice mix}
1 medium large red or yellow onion
1 bunch basil
1 clove garlic
1 lemon
salt & pepper
olive oil
balsamic vinegar
optional - fresh mozzarella balls or slices
topping medium: toasted bread, non-toasted bread, crackers, chips, croutons, cold pasta, pieces of cardboard, etc - this stuff tastes good on just about anything

PREPARATION
This is one of the easiest recipes I have in my arsenal, and yet it produces ecstatic eaters every time.

1. Chop up the tomatoes and onions, and put into a large bowl.
2. Halve and squeeze the lemon over the mixture
3. Add in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, in about a 2 part oil, 1 part vinegar proportion. Some people like a lot, others like it dry with just the hints of flavor - I usually start with 2 tbsp oil to 1 tbsp vinegar and work from there. Keep in mind the tomatoes and lemon will also contribute juices to the dish.
4. Mince or press the clove of garlic and add to the mixture
5. Salt and pepper to taste
6. Chop, and add about 2 tablespoons of basil - more if you love the basil, less if you don't - this recipe is all about your preferences!
7. Use to top toasted bread, crackers or anything remotely carb-based. Or, just shovel it into your mouth with a spoon! It's that good.