Bruschetta with Tomato and Fresh Basil

Bruschetta is toasted or grilled bread, rubbed with garlic and sprinkled with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Variations may include toppings of chopped fresh tomatoes, beans, vegetables, prosciutto, and/or cheese. It is easy to make and is delicious with quality extra virgin olive oil. Bruschetta is ideal as an appetizer, accompaniment, or afternoon snack.

Bruschetta originated in central Italy in the 15th century. Traditionally, when olives were taken to the local mill for pressing, the olive growers took some country bread. Usually there was a small fire burning in the fireplace in the corner of the pressing room, and when the oil emerged from the press, the grower toasted a bit of the bread on the fire to taste their oil on it. Rubbing a clove of garlic onto the bread and adding a pinch of salt were the next steps in making this snack a much loved favorite.

Ingredients
3-4 medium tomatoes, chopped
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup lightly chopped fresh basil
1 French baguette, cut into 1/2 inch thick circles
or 4 large slices country bread, cut in half
2-3 gloves garlic, peeled and cut in half
6 tbsp Olinda Ridge extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

1. Place the chopped tomatoes with their juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in the basil. Set aside for approximately 10 minutes.


2. Toast or grill the bread until it is crisp on both sides. Rub one side of each piece of toasted bread with the cut garlic.


3. Arrange on a platter. Sprinkle with the olive oil. Spoon on the chopped tomatoes, and serve immediately.

Serves 4

Variations: After rubbing the garlic on the toast and sprinkling the olive oil, spread a thin layer of creamy goat cheese onto the bread before spooning the chopped tomato mixture on top.