Bruschetta with a Twist is a delightful and flavorful twist on the classic Italian appetizer. This recipe combines the traditional elements of bruschetta – toasted bread, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil – with a unique twist that includes roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese. The result is a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.
Bruschetta
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 4 ripe tomatoes diced
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers diced (you can use store-bought or roast your own)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Goat Cheese Spread:
- 4 oz about 1/2 cup creamy goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Base:
- 1 French baguette or Italian loaf sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
- 1 clove garlic peeled
Instructions
Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
-
In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, chopped basil, and extra-virgin olive oil.
-
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the other components.
Make the Goat Cheese Spread:
-
In a separate bowl, combine the creamy goat cheese, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and honey (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
-
Season the goat cheese spread with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Toast the Bruschetta Base:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet.
-
Brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil and toast them in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove the toasted bread from the oven and let them cool for a minute. While still warm, rub each slice with the peeled garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlic flavor.
Assemble the Bruschetta with a Twist:
-
Spread a generous amount of the goat cheese mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
Top with the Bruschetta Mixture:
-
Spoon the tomato and roasted red pepper mixture over the goat cheese spread.
Serve:
-
Arrange the Bruschetta with a Twist on a platter or individual serving plates.
-
Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired.
