Mini-Adventure #4: Simple Bruschetta

Nearly every time I go to a grocery store, I walk past the "Manager's Specials" in the bakery, thinking that I should buy something. I want to get a great price on some baked goods, but then I realize that I probably wouldn't be able to use the baked goods before they begin to grow. However, I did buy some today because I knew that I would be able to use it today, before the bread would mold. I hope that you enjoy this simple bruschetta (just a fancy italian word for toast)!

Simple Bruschetta

Ingredients:

• Old Bread (any kind will do, but if you want it to be a little fancier, use a quality loaf like a skinny french baguette)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Italian Seasoning
• Parmesan Cheese
• 2 roma tomatoes
• 1/4 of an onion
• fresh (1-2 Tablespoons) or dried (1-2 teaspoons) basil (fresh is better for a fancier bruschetta)
• salt and pepper to taste

Procedure:

1. Slice the bread on the bias (at an angle) to make 1/4 inch thick toast slices. Arrange the slices on a cookie sheet.
2. Brush a small amount of olive oil onto each slice of bread and sprinkle with italian seasoning.
3. Broil on hi until crispy and golden brown (the edges will be a little darker, but try not to burn them to badly).
4. Flip each slice and brush the opposite side with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Return the cookie sheet to the broiler and toast until crispy.
5. As the bread slices cool, prepare a simple bruschetta topping by combining finely diced tomato, finely diced onion, basil, 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Bruschetta make great appetizers or hors d'ouevres for any occasion. To serve, arrange the toast slices around the topping in a bowl. Allow each guest to spoon the topping onto their toasts to prevent them from becoming soggy too early.
7. Enjoy!