Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is made by topping grilled or toasted bread with different fresh ingredients. While there are many variations, some of the most common toppings for bruschetta include:
Tomatoes
One of the most popular versions of bruschetta features fresh tomatoes. To make classic tomato bruschetta, ripe tomatoes are diced and then combined with olive oil, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper. The tomato topping is then spooned over grilled bread slices. Fresh tomato bruschetta makes a delicious appetizer or light meal.
Cheese
Cheese makes a tasty topping for bruschetta. Popular options include mozzarella, Parmesan, goat cheese, ricotta and provolone. The cheese can be used by itself or combined with other ingredients like tomatoes, spinach or olives. Using high quality, freshly grated cheese helps maximize the flavor.
Vegetables
Beyond tomatoes, all kinds of vegetables taste delicious when used as bruschetta toppings. Some ideas include grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, mushrooms, artichokes or asparagus. The vegetables can be marinated or seasoned before going on the bread. Fresh herbs are a nice addition too.
Meat
For a heartier bruschetta, meats like prosciutto, sausage and chicken can be nice options. Prosciutto pairs well with melon or figs on bruschetta. Cooked sausage or chicken breast can be chopped and seasoned, then layered on the toast. This transforms bruschetta into more of a meal.
Seafood
Bruschetta also lends itself well to seafood toppings. Ideas include smoked salmon, grilled shrimp, crab meat, anchovies, tuna or lobster. The key is buying fresh, high-quality seafood and not overdoing it. A little bit of seafood goes a long way on bruschetta.
Beans
Beans make a protein-packed bruschetta topping. White beans and garbanzo beans (chickpeas) are popular options. The beans can be mixed with olive oil, garlic, parsley and lemon juice. Pureeing them into a spread or bean dip is another idea.
Pesto
Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made from basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts and garlic. It can be bought ready-made or prepared fresh. Dollops of pesto, either alone or mixed with tomato, mozzarella or avocado, make creative bruschetta combinations.
Tapenade
Olive tapenade is a flavorful bruschetta topping as well. Tapenade is an olive spread made from olives, olive oil, anchovies, capers and herbs. It provides a nice savory, salty flavor and texture.
Egg
For breakfast bruschetta, eggs are an excellent topping. Fried, poached or scrambled eggs pair well with cheese, ham, spinach and hollandaise or béarnaise sauce on toasted bread.
Fruit
Fresh fruit can be used in both savory and sweet bruschetta recipes. For a dessert version, try topping toast with mascarpone and fresh fruit like strawberries, peaches or grapes. For a savory bruschetta, prosciutto and melon or figs with prosciutto are tasty combinations.
Conclusion
Bruschetta is incredibly versatile, with many possible topping options. While tomatoes are the most traditional, you can get creative with vegetables, cheese, meats, seafood, beans, pesto, tapenade, eggs or fruit. The key is using fresh, high quality ingredients and not overloading the toasted bread. With endless combinations, bruschetta makes a easy and delicious starter or light meal.