You just heard from several friends, and they're heading over to your house now! It's the perfect time to break out some of the random ingredients you have on hand and make some colorful, creative appetizers.
We're starting with the concept of bruschetta but building onto it with lots of different items and flavors. All of these appetizers start with toasted baguette bread. Slice the bread into 1/4 inch thick pieces, brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and a little salt and pepper. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
For traditional bruschetta topping you'll need:
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of chopped garlic
- 4 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- a pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh, grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Heat the oil in a pan, and add garlic. Sauté until the garlic is softened. Remove from heat and toss diced tomatoes with the mixture. Add the salt, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the tomatoes sit for 30 minutes. Spoon onto the toasted bread, and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
So many options:
Now take that same appetizer concept and see what's in your refrigerator now. Some other ways to top that toasted bread might be:
- Slices of mozzarella, topped with folded salami, olives, and basil
- Goat cheese as the base with slices of apple sprinkled with dill
- Cream cheese layered under sliced cucumber, a dash of soy sauce, and finely chopped peanuts
- Garlic hummus with avocado and sesame seeds
The combinations are endless! Remember to keep it colorful and fun, and your guests will love it.
