Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a fresh and flavorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and garlic. This dish is light, nutritious, and perfect as a starter or snack. By focusing on the Bruschetta Ingredients and Calorie Count, you can enjoy this vibrant dish while keeping track of your nutritional goals.
Bruschetta Ingredients and Calorie Count
Baguette (1 slice / 30g):
- Calories: ~80 calories
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
Tomatoes (1 cup / 180g):
- Calories: ~32 calories
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Basil (1 tablespoon / 5g):
- Calories: ~1 calorie
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0.2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
Garlic (1 clove / 3g):
- Calories: ~5 calories
- Protein: 0.2g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.1g
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon / 15ml):
- Calories: ~120 calories
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Salt (1/4 teaspoon / 1.5g):
- Calories: 0 calories
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon / 0.5g):
- Calories: ~1 calorie
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0.3g
- Fiber: 0.2g
Savor the timeless charm of Bruschetta, a simple yet flavorful Italian appetizer. Featuring crispy toasted bread topped with a vibrant tomato and basil mixture, this recipe celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for entertaining or as a light snack, it’s easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Light: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that are naturally low in calories.
- Customizable: Easily adjust toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Authentic Flavor: Captures the essence of Italian cuisine with every bite.
Prep Time and Serving Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 baguette or Italian loaf, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, peeled
For the Tomato Topping
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice and Brush: Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Toast the Bread: Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Rub with Garlic: While warm, rub each slice with the peeled garlic clove for a hint of flavor.
2. Make the Tomato Topping
- Dice the Tomatoes: Remove seeds for less liquid, then dice the tomatoes finely.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Assemble the Bruschetta
- Spoon the Topping: Generously spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
- Serve Immediately: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic creates a vibrant topping.
- Crispy Bread: Toasted bread provides the perfect base, balancing the juicy topping.
- Simple Preparation: Minimal cooking required, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Total Approximate Calories: The total calorie count for the Bruschetta per serving is approximately 240-250 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil used and the size of the baguette slices. Each serving is estimated to be around 2-3 slices of bruschetta.
Bruschetta is a delicious and light appetizer that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients for a flavorful start to any meal. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy snack or starter while keeping an eye on their nutritional intake. For more light and calorie-conscious recipes, explore our comprehensive resources to keep your meals both nutritious and delicious.
Info Box For detailed calories and more nutritional insights, visit our Italian Recipe Calculator page https://ucalorie.com/category/italian-recipe-calculator/ for a wide range of nutritious options.