How to make bruschetta
Bruchetta is an Italian starter (called an antipasto) that’s popular around the world. The most well-known bruschetta recipe is grilled bread that’s rubbed with garlic, brushed with olive oil and salt and toasted until crisp and golden, then served with fresh tomato salad - but there are so many other toppings to try. It's perfect for parties because you can prep batches of different toppings and bread beforehand and assemble them on the day.
Is bruschetta the bread or the topping?
Bruschetta is often considered to be both the bread and tomato topping, but the name “bruschetta” actually refers to only the toasted bread. That’s why there are so many variations and toppings that can be called bruschetta.
How to make the best bruschetta
- Make your chosen topping. Drain off any extra liquid. Adjust seasoning and add fresh herbs and olive oil. Mix well and set aside.
- Choose a good quality bread with a neutral flavour. Avoid breads with large air pockets so they can hold the toppings. Slice bread into 1½ - 2cm thick slices using a serrated knife and brush with olive oil on both sides.
- Toast the bread. Bake in a preheated 200°C fan-forced oven for 6-8 minutes, toast in a hot dry frying pan, or char-grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Rub toasts with a clove of garlic.
- Just before serving top bruschetta slices with topping and arrange on a serving plate. Garnish with extra herbs and seasoning.
What is bruschetta made of?
Bruschetta is basically sliced toasted rustic bread or baguette that has been brushed with olive oil and crushed garlic. You can add all sorts of toppings, including tomato salad, cured meats, cheese and more. The most well-known topping is made from chopped fresh tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, basil, and garlic.
Is bruschetta served warm or cold?
Bruschetta can be served warm or cold. Traditionally it is served warm, hot off the grill. The topping is spooned over the freshly toasted bread and served immediately.
How long does bruschetta last?
Bruschetta is best eaten straight off the grill, but with the right steps you can prepare it 2-3 days in advance for entertaining:
- Toast the bread and keep it in an airtight container.
- Prepare the toppings, but don’t add salt, fresh herbs or vinegars yet. Keep the topping in an airtight container in the fridge.
- To serve, warm the bread in a low oven and finish off the toppings with fresh herbs and seasonings. Top the bread and serve immediately.
What is the best bread for bruschetta?
Ciabatta, sourdough and French baguettes are the best for bruschetta. However, any kind of rustic bread will work. Look for bread that has a neutral flavour, a good thick crust, and can be grilled and topped with ingredients without it all falling through the large air pockets.
How do I stop my bruschetta from getting soggy?
Top the bruschetta right before serving to prevent it from going soggy. Alternatively, you can serve the bruschetta and topping separately and allow your guests to assemble them.
Another step that can help is adding an ingredient to protect the bread from wetter ingredients. For example, you could create a layer of ricotta, melted cheese, or cured meat and add wet ingredients such as tomatoes and marinated vegetables on top.
Different bruschetta topping ideas
Discover more bruschetta recipes below.
GET THE RECIPE: Grilled Tomato Bruschetta by Perfect Italiano
This simple bruschetta recipe is elevated with thick and creamy ricotta. It also protects the bread from the tomatoes so it stays crisp for longer.
