Bruschetta: Tomato & Arugula Salad

For my first dinner party after Stephen and I were married, I made bruschetta as an appetizer. I found it on the internet. The guy had just come back from Italy with this version of bruschetta to share. I used to buy arugula at the farmers market when I lived in South Florida. Out here in California, it was a little difficult to come by, especially in the valley where we live now and I buy it when I see one. Fresh tomatoes are best, as they really pack in the flavor. If the grocery store is all there is, make sure the tomatoes are fully ripe. The first time I made bruschetta, I thought shallots were green onions. I think I like green onions better anyway. A shallot is smaller like garlic but is generally used in the place of onions.

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is simple to make and always delicious. The recipe consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. While traditional bruschetta is certainly delicious, it can be fun to mix things up and try new variations. One such variation is tomato and arugula salad bruschetta.

2 med roma tomatoes cut into 1/2 inch dice
1 bunch Arugula, coarsely chopped.
1 shallot finely chopped (you can use green onion)
2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
1 tsp salt
2 cloves garlic finely chopped
2 tbsp flat Italian leaf parsley, finely chopped
salt and pepper to taste

Place tomatoes in a colander and sprinkle with 1 tsp salt. Allow tomatoes to drain 10 to 15 min. Remove tomatoes to a bowl (throw away juices) and combine with arugula, garlic, shallots, parsley and red wine vinegar. Taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spoon onto slices of a hot french baguette loaf and enjoy this easy meal! Bruschetta is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you stick with the classic tomato and basil version or try something new like tomato and arugula salad, bruschetta is a surefire crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion.

Want to learn more recipes like this? Check out other recipes here on my blog!