BLT Bruschetta with Goat Cheese Mayo

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There’s something incredibly delightful about a classic BLT sandwich. The crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce come together in perfect harmony. But what if we took this beloved combination and turned it into an elegant appetizer? Enter BLT Bruschetta with Goat Cheese Mayo—a scrumptious twist that elevates the humble BLT and makes it perfect for entertaining or a casual gathering. With its crunchy baguette base, rich goat cheese mayo, and fresh ingredients, this dish is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering treat that is both simple and sophisticated.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Not only is BLT Bruschetta with Goat Cheese Mayo extremely easy to prepare, but it also offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy goat cheese mayo complements the savory bacon and the bright freshness of the tomatoes and lettuce. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase seasonal tomatoes when they’re at their peak. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, a holiday party, or just looking for a flavorful snack, this bruschetta is versatile and crowd-pleasing. The use of goat cheese adds a gourmet touch that sets it apart from traditional bruschetta recipes, making it a must-try for anyone who loves delicious food.

Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 3 roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup lettuce, finely chopped
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 loaf French bread, cut into ¾-inch slices
• 1 clove garlic, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make BLT Bruschetta with Goat Cheese Mayo

Step 1: Prepare the Goat Cheese Mayo

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and softened goat cheese. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and mix again. This spread will be the star of your bruschetta, offering a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the crispy components.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon until it’s crispy. You can do this either in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven. If baking, lay the bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with foil and cook in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet or oven and let it drain on a paper towel. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

Dice the roma tomatoes and finely chop the lettuce. You want the tomatoes to be juicy but not overly watery, so consider removing the seeds if they are very juicy. The lettuce should be chopped to a fine consistency to ensure it spreads easily on the bruschetta without falling off.

Step 4: Toast the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Toast the bread in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. This step is crucial as it creates a sturdy base for your toppings. Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Rub with Garlic

While the bread is still warm, take the halved garlic clove and lightly rub it over the surface of each toast. This adds a subtle garlic flavor that enhances your bruschetta without overpowering the other ingredients.

Step 6: Assemble the Bruschetta

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by spreading a generous layer of the goat cheese mayo on each toasted slice. Next, top with a layer of the chopped lettuce, followed by the crumbled bacon, and finally, the diced tomatoes. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top if desired, and finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the BLT Bruschetta on a beautiful platter and enjoy immediately. The crunch of the toast, the creaminess of the goat cheese mayo, and the fresh toppings create a delightful bite that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Expert Tips

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; ripe tomatoes and crispy lettuce make all the difference.
• Toast the bread just before serving to maintain its crunch.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon based on your preference; more bacon equals more flavor!
• Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the goat cheese for cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy kick.
• Incorporate avocado slices for an extra creamy texture.
• Use ciabatta bread or whole grain bread instead of French bread for a more rustic taste.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately. Place any unused goat cheese mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week. Store the diced tomatoes and chopped lettuce in separate containers as well. The toasted bread can be kept in a paper bag or sealed container but will lose its crunch over time. To refresh the toasts, you can briefly re-toast them in the oven before serving again. Assemble fresh bruschetta bites just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I make the goat cheese mayo ahead of time?

Absolutely! The goat cheese mayo can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before spreading on the bruschetta.

What types of tomatoes are best for this recipe?

Roma tomatoes work well due to their firm texture and lower water content, but feel free to use any variety you prefer! Heirloom or cherry tomatoes can also be delicious options.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To adapt the recipe for vegetarian diets, simply omit the bacon and add extra vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, or use marinated artichokes for added flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for the bread?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free bread. Look for gluten-free baguettes or artisan bread options available in your local grocery store to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The BLT Bruschetta with Goat Cheese Mayo is not just an appetizer; it’s a delightful experience that brings all the charming aspects of a classic BLT in a new and exciting format. Perfect for gatherings, lunch boxes, or a simple snack at home, this appetizer promises to be a hit with everyone. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize, it will quickly become a regular on your menu. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress with this fresh and flavorful creation!