Toasting Options

• Ideally, the bread is grilled over coals that impart a distinctive smokiness along with the esthetically pleasing grill marks, but acceptable toast can be created under a broiler or in a toaster.
  
  

Preparation

• Start by selecting a crusty loaf of bread. Cut it into thick slices. Remove from the oven or grill when both sides are golden and rub with a cut clove of garlic. Brush or drizzle the oil.
  
  

Tuscan Style

• The classic topping consists of fresh tomatoes coarsely chopped with a few fresh basil leaves. Add sea salt, fresh black pepper and oregano to taste.
  
  

More Toppings

• Other toppings can include a slice of mozzarella, tomato and basil leaf. Prosciutto with sliced fresh figs. Or cannellini beans sautéed with tomato paste and red pepper flakes.
  
  

History

• A product of Italian country cuisine, bruschetta was created in the olive-growing areas of Italy and traditionally eaten in the winter when the ripe fruit was pressed for its tangy oil.