Elevate snack time or party appetizers with this irresistibly fresh and flavorful Heart-Healthy Bruschetta with Cheese and Tomatoes. Made with crispy slices of whole grain baguette, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy low-fat mozzarella, and aromatic fresh basil, this recipe offers the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Lightly brushed with extra virgin olive oil, toasted to golden perfection, and infused with garlic, every bite is a burst of Mediterranean-inspired goodness. A touch of balsamic vinegar and freshly cracked black pepper ties the ingredients together for a gourmet finish. Ready in just 20 minutes and designed to support heart health, this simple yet elegant dish is ideal for entertaining or a wholesome snack. Perfect for mindful eaters seeking delicious, healthy recipes!
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the whole grain baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices. You should have approximately 12 slices.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Toast in the preheated oven for 5 minutes or until crispy and golden.
While the bread is toasting, chop the cherry tomatoes into small cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the tomatoes. Mix well to combine.
Dice the low-fat mozzarella cheese into small cubes and add it to the tomato mixture.
Finely chop the fresh basil leaves and gently mix them into the tomato and cheese mixture.
Remove the toasted bread from the oven. Peel and halve the garlic clove. Rub each toasted slice with the cut side of the garlic to infuse them with flavor.
Top each toasted slice of bread with a generous spoonful of the tomato, cheese, and basil mixture.
Serve immediately, garnishing with additional basil leaves if desired.
Calories |
1166 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.4 g | 63% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 50 mg | 17% | |
| Sodium | 3083 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 139.0 g | 51% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.5 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.9 g | ||
| Protein | 51.9 g | 104% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 628 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 967 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.