Bruschetta with tomatoes and prosciutto crudo

Bruschetta with tomatoes and prosciutto crudo: a delicious Italian recipe, perfect for a summer dinner or a sophisticated appetizer

Who doesn't love the authentic flavors of Italy? One of the most beloved dishes in Italian cuisine is bruschetta, a simple yet flavorful dish. This recipe for bruschetta with tomatoes and prosciutto crudo is ideal for impressing friends and family, offering a fresh and comforting taste. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for a summer appetizer or a light snack.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 slices of bruschetta

Ingredients:

- 8 slices of ciabatta (about 2 cm thick)
- 2-3 sweet, ripe tomatoes, diced
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 8 thin slices of prosciutto crudo
- a few fresh basil leaves (if you don't like basil, you can use oregano)
- 4 cloves of garlic, halved
- 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar
- salt and pepper, to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the tomatoes: In a small pot, add the diced tomatoes, chopped basil (or oregano, if you prefer), olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients to combine, then let the mixture rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop and meld together.

2. Toasting the ciabatta: Meanwhile, preheat a skillet or grill over medium heat. Place the slices of ciabatta on the grill and toast for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.

3. Flavoring the garlic: After toasting the ciabatta slices, take each slice and rub one side with the garlic halves. This will add a subtle garlic flavor that will blend perfectly with the tomatoes and prosciutto.

4. Assembling the bruschetta: Arrange the ciabatta slices on plates, with the garlic-rubbed side facing up. Top with the tomato mixture, ensuring that each slice is well-covered.

5. Finishing the dish: Add a slice of prosciutto crudo on top of each bruschetta, allowing it to hang slightly over the edges for an appetizing look.

6. Serving: Serve the bruschetta immediately, to enjoy the crispy texture of the bread and the fresh flavors of the ingredients. You can garnish the plate with a few extra basil leaves for a more elegant appearance.

Helpful suggestions:

- Ingredients: Choose seasonal tomatoes, which are sweeter and more flavorful. High-quality prosciutto crudo will make a difference in taste.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the prosciutto and add goat cheese or fresh mozzarella.
- Serving: These bruschettas pair perfectly with a dry white wine or a spritz-style aperitif, which will complement the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants, which contribute to skin and heart health. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, while prosciutto crudo provides quality protein. Offering a total of about 120-150 calories per bruschetta, this dish is a good choice for a snack.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of bread? Yes, you can use any type of crunchy bread, but ciabatta is ideal due to its texture.
- How can I store the bruschetta for later? It is recommended to prepare them fresh, but if you have leftover tomato mixture, you can store it in the fridge for 1-2 days and serve it on toasted bread when desired.
- What other toppings can I add? You can add olives, chili peppers, or even avocado for a modern twist.

In conclusion, bruschetta with tomatoes and prosciutto crudo is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to bring a touch of Italy into your home. Whether you serve them at a party or simply as a healthy snack, these bruschettas are sure to be a hit. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this moment with your loved ones!