Description
An elegant yet easy appetizer duo featuring fresh tomato basil bruschetta and a delightful cheese platter, perfect for ringing in the New Year.
Ingredients
1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced (plus 1 whole clove for rubbing bread)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for topping)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
1 cup brie cheese, sliced
1/2 cup grapes (red or green)
4 oz goat cheese log (optional)
1/2 cup assorted crackers
1/4 cup mixed nuts
2 tbsp fig jam or honey
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. Remove from oven and, while still warm, lightly rub each slice with the whole garlic clove. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: For the Bruschetta: Just before serving, spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
Step 4: For the Cheese Platter: Arrange the cheddar cheese cubes, sliced brie, and goat cheese (if using) attractively on a large serving board or platter.
Step 5: Fill in the gaps on the platter with grapes, assorted crackers, mixed nuts, and a small bowl of fig jam or honey. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh basil or rosemary for presentation. Serve immediately alongside the bruschetta.
Notes
For best results, use the freshest ingredients for the bruschetta. Customize your cheese platter with your favorite cheeses, fruits, and savory or sweet accompaniments. Consider adding different textures like olives, pickles, or cured meats if not strictly vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assembling, No-bake
- Cuisine: Party Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bruschetta slices & portion of cheese platter
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg