Bruschetta with a Twist

There's something very refreshing about a tomato's strong juicy sweetness that never seems to dominate, but when alone, definitely stands its ground.  I'm always experimenting with recipes that call for tomatoes in some way or another; canned or fresh.  Today I decided I would try something I haven't made in quite some time; bruschetta!

I am a health conscious person and try to utilize whole grains and organic produce whenever possible.  So for this recipe, I did just that.  Rather than using white baguette, the traditional choice for bruschetta, I opted for the organic "Petit Pain Pascal" from Trader Joes, a delicious and insanely cheap (only $0.99) rustic 100% whole wheat loaf.

"Petit Pain Pascal"

I also decided that I would try an alternative herb to basil for my bruschetta, so I chose organic Italian parsley.  The bitterness of the parsley paired with the sweetness of the organic roma tomatoes (you can use any kind of course, but romas are tasty and cheap) created that delightful freshness I was looking for.

Bruschetta with Italian Parsley 

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

one 10 oz. rustic whole wheat loaf or whole wheat baguette

four roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
one tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
one clove garlic, minced
one clove garlic, cut in half
1/8 teaspoon salt
ground black pepper to taste


Directions:


1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.


2. If using a round loaf, cut loaf into 1/2 inch thick slices, cutting them into halves.  All together, you will need approximately 12 small pieces or halves.


3. Place bread on a baking sheet and then into oven for approximately 15 minutes, turning slices over when golden brown on one side (approximately 7 minutes on each side).


4. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, Italian parsley, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.


5. When bread has cooled, use the remaining garlic clove (cut in half) and rub garlic on one side of toasted pieces.


6. Spoon one large tablespoon of tomato mixture onto each toasted piece.  Sprinkle with extra salt and pepper if desired.

Enjoy!