Bruschetta is a popular appetizer option that is easy to make and very flavorful. Mozzarella bruschetta is typically made by toasting a slice of bread and then spreading a mixture of chopped tomatoes, onion, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar on top of it. The cheese may be chopped up and added to the tomato mixture, but most recipes call for the slices of cheese to be placed on top of the tomato mixture and slightly melted in an oven. For maximum flavor, this dish should be prepared in the summer months when tomatoes are ripe and in season. Using high-quality, very fresh ingredients is recommended for the best taste.
Bread is the foundation of mozzarella bruschetta. Various types of bread can be used, but the best options are crusty varieties, such as a baguette, ciabatta, or Italian bread. The bread should be cut into small slices, about 0.25 inches thick (0.64 cm), and brushed with olive oil before being placed in an oven for a few minutes, to toast. For extra flavor, a clove of garlic can be rubbed on the bread.
Ripe tomatoes should be used when making mozzarella bruschetta. These are generally at their best during the summer months when they are in peak season. The tomatoes should be chopped into small pieces and combined with diced onions and fresh basil. Minced garlic may also be included in the mixture for a stronger flavor. Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper are then usually added, and the mixture should be covered and chilled for at least an hour to develop full flavor.
A high-quality mozzarella cheese can greatly enhance the flavor of mozzarella bruschetta. It can be made from scratch, or a soft ball of fresh cheese can be purchased at a supermarket or specialty shop. The cheese should be sliced into pieces that are smaller than the bread pieces used. Some mozzarella bruschetta recipes call for finely diced mozzarella to be mixed in with the tomatoes, but most recipes have the cheese placed on top of the tomato mixture.
After all of the ingredients are prepared, it is not difficult to assemble mozzarella bruschetta. The tomato and basil mixture should be spooned on top of a slice of toasted bread, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese. The bruschetta should then be placed in the oven, under a broiler set to a low temperature, and baked until the mozzarella becomes soft and begins to melt. Fresh basil can be used to garnish the bruschetta. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
