Introduction
If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make appetiser that's a hit at any gathering, look no further than tomato and mozzarella bruschetta. This classic Italian dish has been delighting taste buds for generations with its perfect blend of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the fresh bite of basil, all atop a crunchy base. Even better, this recipe features air frying, allowing you to prepare it quickly while preserving the bright flavours and reducing the need for excessive oil.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or crusty Italian bread
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Bread: Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. For a traditional texture, brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
- Prep the Tomato Mix: In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, mozzarella, minced garlic, and a splash of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Mix the ingredients carefully to avoid mashing the tomatoes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Airing the Bread: Place half of the baguette slices into the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to ensure proper airflow and crisping. Air fry for about 3-5 minutes or until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Remove the toasted bread from the fryer and rub each piece with the cut side of a garlic clove for enhanced flavour. Spoon generous amounts of the tomato-mozzarella mixture onto each slice.
- Second Fry: Return the topped slices to the air fryer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the mozzarella slightly, being cautious not to overcook.
- Garnish: Remove from the fryer, place on a serving platter, and garnish with freshly torn basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Tomato Selection: Opt for cherry or grape tomatoes for a sweeter, more robust flavour. In season, heirloom tomatoes offer a spectacular taste and palette of colours.
- Cheese Alternatives: While mozzarella is traditional, goat cheese or feta can provide a delightful tangy twist.
- Basil: Always use fresh basil. If unavailable, consider a very light sprinkle of dried oregano as a substitute, but be sparing as dried herbs are more potent.
- Bread: Sourdough or ciabatta can be used as an alternative to a baguette. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.
Nutritional Information
This bruschetta serves as a relatively health-conscious appetiser or snack. Each serving (approx. 2 pieces) contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 7g
Conclusion
This air-fried tomato and mozzarella bruschetta is more than just an easy appetiser—it’s a celebration of simple, seasonal ingredients. Perfect for casual gatherings or as a light starter, this dish captures the essence of Italian flavours in every bite. Experiment with the variations and make this recipe your own culinary masterpiece.