Bruschetta in Italian translates to “toast over coals”. The ancient Romans would toast bread slices over fire and pour on the most recent batch of bright green olive oil. Rubbing a garlic clove over the toasted bread came later but this dish has been all about the olive oil since day one. Modern versions have added chopped tomatoes, vinegar, etc., and though quite good, the original is well worth revisiting.
Bruschetta – Classic Roman Garlic Bread
As most things Italian, the fewest and freshest ingredients make these oil drenched toasts superior. They can be served pre-assembled on a platter or, for fun, let each diner assemble their own at the table. Bruschetta can serve as a base for all kinds of toppings, from the typical chopped fresh tomato to cheese covered olives or marinated red peppers.
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Servings: 6
Equipment
- Large baking pan or grill
Ingredients
- 12 slices Italian bread, whole wheat or country white
- 4 cloves Garlic, peeled and whole
- ½ cup Extra virgin olive oil, green preferred
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat broiler or grill. Toast bread slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and immediately rub one side of each slice with garlic cloves. Place on a serving platter and pour oil over each, enough to lightly soak in. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
Notes
- Bread may be toasted a few hours in advance and kept at room temperature.
- Feel free to top with roughly chopped fresh tomatoes drenched in extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Nutrition
Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 149mg | Potassium: 87mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Calcium: 0.2mg | Iron: 1mg
