Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a quintessential Italian appetizer made from grilled bread rubbed with garlic, drizzled with olive oil, and lightly seasoned with salt. This versatile dish can be adorned with various toppings, such as tomatoes, vegetables, beans, cured meats, or cheese. One of the most popular variations features juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.

Often served as a snack or appetizer, bruschetta exists in numerous forms across Italy. In some regions, it is prepared using a brustolina grill. In Tuscany, there is a unique version called fettunta, which consists of simple grilled bread without any toppings, allowing the flavor of the season's first olive oil to be the star.

The history of bruschetta dates back to the 15th century, with its origins tracing even further back to Ancient Rome. Olive growers of that era would taste their freshly pressed olive oil on a piece of bread. The word "bruschetta" derives from the Roman dialect verb "bruscare" meaning 'to toast' or 'to roast over coals'. This ancient technique of toasting bread and soaking it in olive oil has endured through the ages.

Interestingly, in the United States, the term "bruschetta" is sometimes used to describe a pre-made, tomato-based topping sold in jars, which differs from its traditional Italian meaning.