Tuscan Herb Cheese Delight with Tomato Bruschetta
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of Tuscany with this Herb Cheese Delight topped with a fresh Tomato Bruschetta. This appetizer is an elegant combination of herbed cream cheese spread, drizzled with a homemade balsamic reduction, and nestled between crunchy slices of toasted ciabatta. Perfect for gatherings, this dish shines when prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in, impress your guests or family with this sophisticated yet simple recipe.
4
Servings
100
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
spice islands grinder garlic and herb seasoning
1-2 teaspoons
mixed Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon
garlic powder
1/8-1/4 teaspoon
dried basil
1/8-1/4 teaspoon
salt
1 pinch
parmesan cheese (powdered)
to taste
roma tomatoes
4 (diced)
red onion
1/4 (diced)
fresh basil leaves
5 (freshly chopped)
garlic clove
1-2 (minced)
balsamic vinegar
1 cup
brown sugar
1-2 tablespoons
ciabatta or Italian bread
to taste (sliced and toasted)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe bowl, place the cream cheese and sprinkle in the garlic and herb seasoning, mixed Italian herbs, garlic powder, dried basil, and a pinch of salt. Microwave for 30 seconds just to soften the cream cheese, then mix well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2
For the balsamic reduction, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat and bring it to a simmer while stirring frequently. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by half and has thickened, about 30 to 45 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3
In a separate bowl, combine the diced roma tomatoes, chopped basil leaves, diced red onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together and cover. Refrigerate for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
4
When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the herbed cream cheese mixture evenly in an oven-proof serving dish (divide a 9x9-inch dish or use half of a 13x9-inch dish if doubling). Sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan cheese on top, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5
To serve, spoon the chilled bruschetta mixture alongside the warm creamy spread or pile it neatly on top. Drizzle with the balsamic reduction for added flavor. Slice up toasted ciabatta or Italian bread to serve with the spread. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
6.25g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
0.5g
Fiber
1.25g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuscan Herb Cheese Delight with Tomato Bruschetta?
It is an elegant appetizer featuring an herbed cream cheese spread topped with a fresh tomato bruschetta and a homemade balsamic reduction, served on toasted ciabatta.
What type of cheese forms the base of the spread?
The base is 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
How do I soften the cream cheese for the mixture?
Microwave the cream cheese and herbs for 30 seconds to soften them before mixing until smooth.
What herbs are used in the cream cheese spread?
The spread uses garlic and herb seasoning, mixed Italian herbs, garlic powder, and dried basil.
How do I make the balsamic reduction?
Simmer balsamic vinegar and brown sugar over medium-low heat for 30 to 45 minutes until reduced by half and thickened.
What ingredients are in the tomato bruschetta mixture?
It consists of diced roma tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, diced red onion, minced garlic, and salt.
How long should the tomato mixture chill?
It should be refrigerated for at least a few hours, though overnight is preferred for better flavor development.
At what temperature should the cheese be baked?
The herbed cream cheese should be baked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long does the cheese spread need to bake?
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
What kind of bread is best for serving?
Toasted ciabatta or Italian bread slices are recommended.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the cream cheese mix and tomato topping can be prepared a day in advance to allow flavors to meld.
What are the calorie counts for this appetizer?
There are 100 calories per serving.
Is there a specific tomato recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for 4 diced roma tomatoes.
What type of Parmesan is used?
Powdered Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top to taste before baking.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 7.5g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 6.25g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Each serving contains a modest 2.5g of protein.
What kind of sugar is used in the balsamic reduction?
One to two tablespoons of brown sugar are used.
How much balsamic vinegar is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of balsamic vinegar.
What size dish should I use for baking?
Use a 9x9-inch dish or half of a 13x9-inch dish if you decide to double the recipe.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the bruschetta topping specifically uses 1-2 minced garlic cloves.
How much fresh basil is needed?
The recipe uses 5 fresh basil leaves, freshly chopped.
How do I serve the finished dish?
Spoon the chilled bruschetta alongside the warm spread, drizzle with balsamic reduction, and serve with toasted bread.
What onion is best for the bruschetta?
A 1/4 portion of a red onion, diced, is used for its flavor profile.
Does the dish contain fiber?
Yes, there is approximately 0.5g of fiber per serving.
What are the primary tags for this recipe?
Tuscan, cheese spread, bruschetta, appetizer, and herbed cream cheese.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
There is 1.25g of sugar per serving.
Should the balsamic reduction be hot when served?
No, it should be removed from the heat and allowed to cool before drizzling.
Is there salt in the cream cheese mix?
Yes, a pinch of salt is added to the cream cheese before microwaving.