Bruschetta and Crostini
Some people crave sweets. Thank God for small favors that I don't. I do, however, make up for it by loving crunchy munchies. With its toasty bread and tasty toppings, this classic Italian appetizer satisfies that longing for crunchy, salty foods without getting you into trouble. The beauty is in the versatility here. Each time I make these hors d'oeuvres, I vary the toppings. Here are three favorites.
Makes 24 appetizers
24 bruschetta or crostini (recipe follows)
1 recipe marinated tomato, asparagus and Parmesan,
or mushroom topping
Bruschetta and Crostini
INGREDIENTS
Nonstick olive or vegetable oil spray
1 thin baguette or loaf of Italian bread, cut crosswise into
1/3-inch-thick slices
DIRECTIONS
To make the bruschetta:
Prepare a grill or heat a grill pan and spray it with the nonstick olive oil spray. Arrange the bread on the grill 4 inches from the coals (or right on the grill pan if using) and grill it for about 2 minutes a side or until it is lightly browned.
To make the crostini:
Arrange the bread in one layer on a baking sheet and toast it in a preheated 400°F. oven for 10 minutes or until it is golden.
Nutritional Analysis per 1/3-inch slice, untopped: 19 calories; 20% calories from fat; less than 'A gram of fat; 35 milligrams of sodium
Marinated Tomato Topping
INGREDIENTS
1/2 pound tomatoes (about 2 medium), seeded and chopped
1/2 garlic clove, minced (about 1/2 teaspoon)
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons shredded fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
In a bowl, stir together all the ingredients, and add salt and pepper to taste. Mound a heaping teaspoon of marinated tomatoes on top of each bruschetta or crostini.
Nutritional Analysis per' tablespoon: 43 calories; 16% calories from fat; 1 gram of fat; 79 milligrams of sodium
Source: Joan Lunden’s Healthy Cooking by Joan Lunden and Laura Morton
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Joan Lunden truly exemplifies today’s modern working woman. An award-winning journalist, bestselling author, motivational speaker, successful entrepreneur, one of America’s most recognized and trusted television personalities, this mom of seven continues to do it all. As host of Good Morning America for nearly two decades, Lunden brought insight to top issues for millions of Americans each day. The longest running host ever on early morning television, Lunden reported from 26 countries, covered 4 presidents and 5 Olympics and kept Americans up to date on how to care for their homes, their families and themselves.