Bruschetta (pronounced ‘brus’ketta’) is a delicious and simple treat to make. This Italian appetizer derives it’s name from the verb ‘bruscare’ which means to ‘roast over coals.’ The title really just refers to toasted bread rubbed with garlic and olive oil, however is mistakenly thought of as the entire dish. There are several toppings besides the chopped tomatoes though, including ham, garlic cremes, and tapenads, or olive-based spreads.t27 I also recall learning in Italy that bruschetta came about as a way to save bread that was going stale. Thank God for resourcefulness!
Bruschetta is one of my favorite appetizers to make not only because of
the tangy tomato and garlic bite, but because it was one of the first meals I
made. It was a pleasant afternoon in Italy and my friend Geoff Jensen invited
the idea. After getting the amounts of olive oil and basil just right we had
such a pleasant meal together. At this inaugural meal, I learned that recipes
and amounts are really relative to your taste. From then on, cooking has been
more of an artistic expression, rather than just following the recipes. Also,
the idea of God starting something good back then and bringing it along to this
cookbook now reminds me of the verses in Philippians 1:5-6. Paul writes to the
Philippian church and tells them that, “because of your partnership in the
gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began
a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ
Jesus.” Jesus promised to us all that God would send the Holy Spirit to be with
us before He went to heaven. The Holy Spirit guides us and carries out God’s
work in our lives when we abide in Him. I am convinced that this cookbook would
not have been possible without His guidance and am convinced that every day He
is available to help me anyone who abides in Him. “Trust in the LORD with all
your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge
him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
To make
the bruschetta’s topping, first mix the ingredients proportionately in a bowl
and adjust to taste. Use about 1 Tbsp of olive oil and go light on the strong
balsamic vinegar. For the bruschetta itself, reserve some garlic, at least 3-4
cloves, and rub onto pieces of sliced bread over a cooking sheet. Drizzle some
olive oil over all surfaces (I also add parmesan cheese here) and broil at
500°F for 2-4 minutes, watching it well. When still hot, spread the tomatoes
and enjoy the art of cooking and trusting in Him.
1 loaf of bread
7 tomatoes
1 1/3 cup red onions
2/3 cup chopped basil
10 garlic cloves (3-4 for bread)
Olive oil, lemon and balsamic vinegar to taste
t27Pakhare, Jayashree. "Bruschetta." Buzzle.com: Intelligent Life on the Web. Buzzle.com, n.d. google. Web. 16 Sept. 2011.<http://www.buzzle.com/articles/bruschetta.html>.
♥ Praise the Lord! 'He Art cooking' the cookbook is done! Here is a sneak peak (2 of 3 recipes) of what you can order (order here!). God Bless your cooking and enjoy the recipes (Scripture) from the Lord as well!
