Bruschetta

Bruschetta, a word once used to describe a piece of toast rubbed and drizzled in garlic and olive oil, has come to mean several different things over the years. There are many different types of bruschetta toppings, including chopped tomatoes and basil, and they are always served on a single piece of toasted or grilled bread. While some people insist bruschetta must be topped with olive oil, toppings can vary from recipe to recipe.

In its most basic form, bruschetta is a piece of bread grilled on a wood fire and rubbed with a cut of garlic. A traditional Italian appetizer, the bread slices are rubbed with olive oil and topped with diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper and served warm with melted cheese on top.

With the change of seasons, our appetites change as well, and if you are ready for something a bit heartier, La Bottega of Farmingdale offers a variety of delicious bruschetta. No food is as robust as this classic Italian fare.

A number of bruschetta variations are available today. Classic Bruschetta, which consists of tomato, garlic and fresh basil, is the most common. Mozzarella, roasted peppers and basil pesto is another well-known variant. For non-tomato fans, goat cheese, golden raisins and walnuts are added to the recipe as a complementary flavor. Seared steak is also available, including the addition of roasted jumbo shrimp with hot peppers.