Elevate your appetizer game with this wholesome and flavorful Whole30 Bruschetta with Tomato and Mozzarella-inspired twist! This recipe swaps traditional bread with tender, golden-brown eggplant rounds, creating a delightful gluten-free and grain-free base. Topped with a vibrant medley of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, each bite is bursting with fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. A luscious homemade balsamic reduction adds a touch of tangy sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory elements. Ready in just 40 minutes, this Whole30-friendly starter is ideal for gatherings, light lunches, or anytime you crave a healthy yet satisfying treat. Whether you're following a Whole30 plan or simply looking to enjoy clean, wholesome ingredients, this appetizer is sure to impress!
To begin, wash the tomatoes and dice them into small, even pieces. Transfer the diced tomatoes to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Wash and finely chop the fresh basil leaves. Set aside a few whole leaves for garnishing, then add the chopped basil to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Stir the minced garlic into the tomato and basil mixture.
Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the bowl, along with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Slice the eggplant into rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
In a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the eggplant slices in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
Cook each side of the eggplant slices for about 3-4 minutes, until they are golden brown and have softened. Remove from the pan and let them cool slightly on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
While the eggplant is cooling, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, pour the balsamic vinegar and bring to a low simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce by half, until slightly thickened and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch closely to prevent burning.
To assemble the bruschetta, place the cooled eggplant slices on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture generously over each eggplant round.
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the bruschetta, and garnish with the reserved whole basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy your Whole30-friendly appetizer!
Calories |
741 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 44.3 g | 57% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1999 mg | 87% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 82.2 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.3 g | 94% | |
| Total Sugars | 53.5 g | ||
| Protein | 13.0 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 210 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 5.5 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 3031 mg | 64% | |
*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.