Social Saturday: Anna's Heirloom Bruschetta

Whenever I’m having some friends over for cocktails, I love to have some plates out for everyone to pick from.  I’m a big fan of Tapas because you get to try a whole bunch of items without having to commit to one dish.  When I am entertaining, aside from some salted nuts, a great cheese plate and veggies with dip, I always serve bruschetta.  The toppings change based on what mood I’m in but the process is always the same.  Really good ciabatta bread, seared with butter and olive oil in a cast iron skillet, fresh toppings and a generous sprinkling of kosher salt.

Traditionally, tomatoes and garlic are used but if you like, get creative and other toppings like ricotta and honey or brie and apple.  With a delicious piece of butter bread as your base, it’s hard to mess things up.

ANNA'S-HEIRLOOM-TOMATO-BRUSCHETTA-EASY-ENTERTAINING

Anna's Heirloom Bruschetta

Makes

Serves
Prep time:         Total time: 

1 loaf ciabatta bread
1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 heirloom red tomatoes, seeded and chopped in ½ inch dice
1 yellow or orange tomato, seeded and chopped in a ½ inch dice
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
3 large basil leaves, chiffonade

  1. In a mixing bowl, add tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper and vinegar.  Let sit while you cook the bread.
  2. In a cast iron skillet, melt butter in 2 tablespoons olive oil until combined.  Add bread and do not move for 2 to 3 minutes.  Flip when bread is golden brown and allow to cook for an additional 2 minutes until done.
  3. Remove from pan and arrange on serving platter.  Top with tomatoes.
  4. Before serving, top with basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Buon Appetito!

Bruschetta, STEP BY STEP

Bruschetta, STEP BY STEP