Midwestern Bruscitt

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian bruschetta is given a Midwestern twist by incorporating crispy bacon and cheddar cheese. These additions enhance the flavor profile and add a touch of richness to the dish, making it more suitable for Midwestern American cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Bruscitt, so you can check it out.

• 8 slices of French bread 8 slices of French bread
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced 4 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 23g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and brush them with olive oil. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. 3.
   In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Remove the toasted bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Spoon the tomato mixture onto each bread slice, spreading it evenly.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the tomato mixture.
7. 7.
   Return the bruscitt to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bacon — For a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon strips.
• Cheddar cheese — Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, rub the toasted bread slices with a garlic clove before topping them with the tomato mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
• Serve the Midwestern Bruscitt as an appetizer at parties or as a light lunch alongside a fresh salad.

Serving advice

Serve the Midwestern Bruscitt warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a snack, or even as a light meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Midwestern Bruscitt on a platter, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for an attractive presentation. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and herbs will make it visually appealing.