Bruschetta

Brewscetta, Brusheta, Brochettie, however you want to say it, I say yummo! Just don't say it like they are on the new Olive Garden commercial, I swear they make words up for their food. Also, haven't you noticed that every "special" they have is the same thing, just with a different made up name? Sorry, squirrel, but it really gets to me. Bruschetta is how it's spelled on dictionary.com, so it's good enough for me.

Bruschetta is what I like to think of as an Italian salsa, but instead of tortilla chips, its eaten on toasted baguette slices. Also like salsa, you will find that there are many variations of how its made. Now, I like to cook what I like. I happen to like red onions and vinegar, so those go into my recipe. How you make yours is totally up to you. If you have a certain way you make it, I would love to hear about it, so leave a comment! Since I was just making enough for my boyfriend and I, this recipe makes enough for 8 slices of baguette. Double if you need more.

Bruschetta

• 3 roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp red onion, finely diced
• 3-4 leaves fresh basil, minced
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp olive oil plus 2 tbsp olive oil (for baguette)
• 1/2 tsp season salt
• 1/3 baguette, sliced into 8 1/4 inch slices

1. Set the oven to broil.
2. In a bowl, mix tomatoes, garlic, onion, basil, 2 tsp olive oil, and season salt. Mix and set aside. Taste it, see if you think it needs more seasoning.
3. Brush 2 tablespoons over the 8 slices of baguette, front and back.
4. Put in oven and broil on both sides until lightly browned.
5. Let the tomato mixture mingle for 20 minutes or longer. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will come together.

Tips and Tricks

• I like to cut my tomatoes in half long ways and spoon out the middles. I find the middle to be too mushy. I would recommend this so your bruschetta doesn't turn into a soupy mess.
• If you like a little spice, add some red chili flakes.
• Fresh buffalo mozzarella diced would be a great addition!
• Use bruschetta to top a baked potato, stir into fresh pasta, or top chicken for a delicious meal.