Bruschetta with cheese and olives

Name: Bruschetta with cheese and olives - Sabina F.
Ingredients: 3 large slices of bread; garlic sauce for spreading; salt; pepper; one finely chopped tomato; one finely chopped red bell pepper; pitted olives chopped; one onion sliced; salty cheese; 50g butter

Sandwiches - Bruschetta with cheese and olives by Sabina F. - Recipia

I have prepared these bruschettas dozens of times, especially when I have leftover slices of homemade bread or when I need something quick to put on the table. They are the kind of snack I can make without thinking too much. If you have cheese, some vegetables, butter, and olives in the fridge, you're good to go. Quick info Total time: about 30 minutes Preparation time: 10-15 minutes Baking time: 10-20 minutes Number of servings: 3 (if using large slices of bread) Difficulty: easy Recipe type: warm snack, appetizer Ingredients 3 large slices of bread (any kind works, preferably a bit thicker) 50 g soft butter garlic paste for spreading (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on taste) salt pepper a small tomato, finely chopped a red bell pepper, finely chopped pitted olives, sliced (any type, just enough to cover each slice) a small onion, thinly sliced salted cheese, grated (to taste, about 50-70 g for all slices) Preparation method 1. Preheat the oven. Set it to 180°C and let it heat up. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. 2. Take the slices of bread and spread soft butter on each side. It’s easier if the butter is at room temperature. 3. On the top side of each slice, spread the garlic paste. Don’t overdo it if you don’t want a very strong flavor. 4. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper, to your liking. 5. Top the bread with the finely chopped tomato, the chopped bell pepper, the thin onion slices, and the sliced olives. 6. Finally, grate salted cheese over each slice. Use enough to cover well without weighing down the bread. 7. Transfer the slices to the prepared tray. 8. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 20 minutes. When you see that the cheese has melted and the bread is golden brown around the edges, remove the tray. 9. Serve immediately while hot. Why I make this recipe often These bruschettas are quick, use what you find in the fridge, and are easy to prepare and clean up. They are good warm but also work at room temperature if needed. Tips and variations Tips If the bread is a bit stale, that’s even better; it won’t get too soggy while baking. Don’t put the topping too thickly to avoid making the bread too soggy. For the garlic paste, combine crushed garlic with a little salt and water. Substitutions Instead of salted cheese, you can use grated cheese or crumbled feta if that’s what you have on hand. You can use red onion if you don’t have white, or even green onion. Almost any type of olives works, just make sure to pit them. Variations You can add thin slices of zucchini or even a bit of boiled corn for something different. If you don’t want butter, you can brush with a little olive oil before adding the garlic paste. Sometimes I also add a few fresh basil leaves after taking the bruschettas out of the oven. Serving ideas They are suitable as an appetizer for a larger meal, on a platter, or as a quick snack. They can also be served alongside a salad for a simple lunch. Frequently asked questions Can I use any type of bread? Yes, any type of bread works: homemade, baguette, toast. Just make sure the slices are thick enough not to get soggy while baking. If I don’t have garlic paste, can I just use crushed garlic? Sure, you can just rub a clove of garlic on the bread or mix it with a little oil. Can it be made without butter? Yes, you can brush with a little oil or skip it altogether if you prefer. Butter adds flavor and makes the crust more tender. Does the cheese have to be salty? No, any cheese that melts somewhat will work. Salty cheese adds flavor, but you can adapt based on what you have. Can they be prepared in advance? They are best served fresh out of the oven, but if needed, you can prepare the slices with toppings, keep them in the fridge, and bake them when you want. Nutritional values Estimate per serving (1 large slice, with toppings): Calories: 220-260 kcal Protein: 7-10 g Carbohydrates: 20-25 g Fats: 10-14 g Values vary depending on the type of bread and cheese used. Storage and reheating Bruschettas are best right after you take them out of the oven. If they do remain, they can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days, but the bread will get soggy. If you want to reheat them, place them in the oven for a few minutes, not in the microwave, to regain some crust. However, the texture is best when fresh.

Bruschetta with cheese and olives

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