Avocado is a versatile and nutritious fruit that serves as an excellent base for quick and delicious appetizers. Its creamy texture and mild flavor pair well with various ingredients, allowing for creative and satisfying dishes that can be prepared in minutes. Below is a simple yet delightful avocado appetizer recipe that you can whip up in just 10 minutes, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a light snack.
Quick and Delicious Avocado Bruschetta
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Avocado Mixture:
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
- Mash the avocado with a fork until you achieve a chunky consistency.
- Combine the Toppings:
- Add the diced cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh basil to the mashed avocado.
- Drizzle the mixture with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Toast the Baguette Slices:
- Preheat a grill pan or toaster.
- Lightly brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil.
- Grill or toast the slices until they are golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.
- Assemble the Bruschetta:
- While the toasted baguette slices are still warm, rub one side of each slice with the cut side of the garlic clove to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
- Spoon the avocado mixture onto each slice, spreading it evenly.
- Serve:
- Arrange the avocado bruschetta on a serving platter.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture of the bread and the fresh flavors of the topping.
Additional Tips:
- Variations: For added protein, top the avocado mixture with slices of smoked salmon or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the avocado mixture up to an hour in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Toast the baguette slices just before serving to ensure they remain crisp.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this appetizer with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.
This avocado bruschetta is a quick and flavorful appetizer that showcases the creamy richness of avocados combined with the freshness of tomatoes and basil. It’s an ideal choice for gatherings, offering a delightful bite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
For a visual guide on preparing a similar avocado appetizer, you might find this video helpful: