Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make and full of flavor, and it’s the perfect choice for any occasion.
Whether you are hosting a party for your friends or family, bruschetta is the star of the show. But what to serve with bruschetta?
So, if you’re looking for something special to accompany your bruschetta spread, look no further! We’ve gathered some of the most creative side dishes to add flavor, texture, and color to your table.
I have enjoyed these sides along with Bruschetta, and I am sure you are also going to enjoy these sides at your next party along with your bruschetta.
What is bruschetta? What does bruschetta taste like?
Bruschetta is an Italian starter dish that consists of grilled bread slices rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The topping can also include chopped tomatoes, olives, capers, vegetables, mashed beans, cured meats or cheese.
The taste of bruschetta depends on the type of ingredients used to top it.
Generally speaking, it has a savory flavor profile thanks to the combination of crunchy bread topped with olive oil and herbs like oregano.
It may have a slight garlic-y or acidic taste from the addition of tomato or other acidic ingredients like balsamic vinegar.
Depending on what you put on top of bruschetta, it could have sweet notes from fruit such as figs, tartness from olives or capers, or creaminess from the cheese.
The overall taste is a balance of the ingredients used, and the flavor profile should be pleasing and unique.
Overall, bruschetta offers a delicious combination of flavors that makes it an enjoyable starter snack or light meal. It’s simple to make at home, allowing you to customize it with different toppings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!
30+ Sides to serve with bruschetta
1. Caprese Salad
A classic caprese salad pairs perfectly with bruschetta. It makes a great side dish because it’s light and refreshing, which balances out the bold flavor of the bruschetta.
To make a traditional caprese salad, slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, then layer them on a plate and drizzle olive oil over the top.
Sprinkle some salt and pepper for extra flavor, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Discover More: Complementary Dishes to Serve with Caprese Salad
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are an excellent side dish for bruschetta because they add texture and crunch to the meal.
Choose your favorite vegetables – like mushrooms, peppers, onions or zucchini – then toss them in olive oil before roasting them in the oven until they’re golden brown.
Add some garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor if desired.
3. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is another great side dish to serve with bruschetta because it adds freshness to the meal.
All you need is some olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon juice to prepare this simple side dish.
Simply brush your asparagus spears with oil and seasonings before grilling until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top for extra flavor if desired.
4. Antipasto Skewers
An antipasto skewer is a great way to bring together all of your favorite Italian flavors in one bite!
Start by threading cubes of mozzarella cheese onto wooden skewers, followed by cherry tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil, and enjoy!
5. Herb Roasted Potatoes
Herb Roasted Potatoes are excellent to serve with bruschetta. These potatoes are roasted with garlic, thyme and rosemary to bring out their natural flavors.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms make a great accompaniment to bruschetta. The vegetables are cooked in butter and seasoned with herbs for added flavor.
Learn More: Delicious Sides to Serve with Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
7. Mediterranean Salad
A light and healthy salad made with tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, cucumbers and red onions is the perfect side dish for your bruschetta spread.
8. Baked Feta Cheese
Baked Feta Cheese is a rich, delicious dish made with feta cheese and tomato sauce, then topped with herbs and spices. The perfect accompaniment to Bruschetta.
9. Greek Potato Salad
Greek Potato Salad is an excellent choice to pair with bruschetta. Potatoes are boiled, mixed with a vinaigrette dressing, then combined with olives, cucumbers and tomatoes for an even more flavorful side dish.
10. Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash slices are tossed in oil and herbs for easy preparation. Delicious served alongside bruschetta platters!
11. Roast Garlic Cauliflower
Roast Garlic Cauliflower is a flavorful side dish made with garlic, olive oil and herbs. Perfect for accompanying bruschetta platters.
12. Grilled Zucchini
Quickly marinate zucchini in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, oregano and lemon juice before grilling them for a delicious side dish that pairs well with bruschetta platters.
13. Chargrilled Artichokes
Chargrilled artichokes are cooked over a charcoal fire until they’re tender and charred. A delicious side dish to accompany bruschetta platters.
14. Roasted Tomatoes
Simply cut tomatoes in half, top with herbs, garlic, oil and salt, then bake in the oven – an easy-to-prepare side dish for any bruschetta platter.
15. Sautéed Spinach
Toss spinach leaves with garlic and olive oil for a flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with bruschetta!
16. Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Deliciously wrapped asparagus spears make an impressive presentation on any bruschetta platter. (Recipe)
17. Bruschetta Topping
No bruschetta platter would be complete without the classic topping of chopped tomatoes and garlic! Serve as a side dish to accompany your bruschetta.
18. Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Baked Eggplant Parmesan is an Italian classic that combines layers of thinly sliced eggplant, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a rich tomato sauce for a savory, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with bruschetta.
19. Meatballs Marinara
Meatballs marinara is tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a flavorful marinara sauce that is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve over your favorite pasta, or scoop up some saucy goodness with bruschetta slices.
20. Lasagna
Layered noodles, rich tomato sauce and melted cheese make lasagna an ideal companion for toasted bruschetta slices for dipping into all those delicious layers of flavor.
Explore More: What to serve with Lasagna
21. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Marinate shrimp in garlic olive oil and herbs for added flavor before grilling them to perfection, then serve them alongside crunchy-tangy bruschetta slices for a perfect bite!
22. Bruschetta Chicken Bake
Bruschetta Chicken Bake is an easy-to-make casserole that combines cooked chicken breasts with diced tomatoes, spinach and cream cheese, perfectly complemented by the addition of crumbled bruschetta pieces sprinkled on top before baking.
23. Sausage & Peppers
Sauté sweet Italian sausage slices along with onions and bell peppers, then spoon over freshly toasted bruschetta slices to soak up the flavorful juices from this hearty dish full of robust flavors.
24. Roasted Garlic Bruschetta Spread
Please make your own roasted garlic spread by pureeing cloves of roasted garlic cloves together with cream cheese and chopped fresh herbs, then use it as a base for your homemade bruschetta topping!
25. Grilled Salmon & Pesto
For an elegant twist on the traditional Italian appetizer, pair grilled salmon fillets seasoned with herbaceous pesto with crisp-tangy homemade or store-bought bruschetta slices for a sophisticated meal sure to impress at any dinner party!
26. Stuffed Mushrooms
Bite-size mushrooms stuffed with herbed cream cheese make for an indulgent complement to any meal, especially when served alongside warm toasty-crunchy bruschetta slices!
Find Out: What to serve with stuffed mushrooms
27. Tuna Niçoise Salad
Tuna Niçoise Salad is a French staple that blends together tuna, boiled eggs, black olives, lettuce greens and boiled potatoes into one delectable dish made even better when served alongside tangy tomato-topped bruschetta!
28. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Freshly roasted red peppers blended into smooth hummus create an irresistible dip that is perfect when scooped up on top of lightly charred, crispy-crunchy homemade or pre-made bruschetta bread!
29. Tomato Basil Soup
A bowl of warm tomato basil soup served alongside melted butter brushed onto slightly charred bruschetta pieces is sure to please any hungry crowd looking for comfort food without compromising taste!
30. Prosciutto Wrapped Breadsticks
Mix together cream cheese mixed with chopped prosciutto chunks, then wrap around pre-made breadsticks before baking until golden brown. (Recipe)
Pair these savory morsels alongside vibrant topped garlic-rubbed homemade or store-bought Bruschetta pieces for an unforgettable bite!
31. Baked Brie & Figs
Place slices of brie cheese onto a baking sheet and top with figs before baking until the cheese melts, then serve it with toasted bruschetta pieces for a unique appetizer sure to satisfy any palate!
32. Roasted Eggplant Spread
Roast eggplants until soft, then puree until smooth in consistency with garlic and fresh herbs for a creamy spread that goes great on top of freshly-toasted homemade or pre-made bruschetta slices.
33. Crostini Appetizers
Whether you make your own crostini from scratch or purchase them pre-made, these bite-sized pieces are a classic Italian favorite perfect when served alongside bruschetta.
What to serve with bruschetta chicken?
Bruschetta chicken is a wonderful entrée to serve for dinner or as an appetizer. To complete the meal, serve it with a side of crunchy roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, pasta salad or couscous.
A simple green salad is also an excellent accompaniment to the bruschetta chicken. For those looking for something lighter, try serving some fresh fruit with the dish.
Top off your dinner with a glass of chilled white wine, and you have the perfect summer meal! Enjoy!
What are the best flavors to go with Bruschetta?
The classic Bruschetta topping of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil is always a great place to start. But there are many other flavors that work well with the dish too.
For something fresh and light, try topping your bruschetta with feta cheese and lemon zest. Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, capers, olives and anchovies also make excellent toppings for bruschetta.
To add a bit of sweetness to your plate, top the bruschetta with roasted grapes or figs and some balsamic glaze. Arugula pesto or sliced ripe avocado are also delicious options.
If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment by mixing different flavors together – the possibilities are endless! Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a delicious bite. Enjoy!
How do you jazz up Bruschetta?
One of the best ways to jazz up Bruschetta is by adding interesting toppings. Try experimenting with different types of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, or mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
You can also top your Bruschetta with thinly sliced prosciutto, diced tomatoes, olives, capers, and roasted red peppers – the possibilities are endless!
For a sweet twist, add a dollop of honey and sprinkle over some chopped nuts. Another unique topping combination is brie cheese topped with caramelized onions and pecans.
How do you display bruschetta on a platter?
To display bruschetta on a platter, start by arranging the slices of toast or baguette on the plate. Place any toppings you are using in piles or mounds around the toast.
You can also drizzle a flavorful oil over the top and garnish with herbs, such as oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, etc.
To complete your presentation, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and decorate it with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Wrap Up on What to Serve with Bruschetta
When it comes to side dishes for bruschetta spread, there are endless possibilities!
A classic caprese salad pairs perfectly with bruschetta, while roasted vegetables add texture and crunchy goodness to each bite.
And grilled asparagus provides a nutritious and delicious accompaniment that will help complete your meal!
With these creative side dishes in tow, you can be sure that everyone at your table will enjoy their meal!
So go ahead – pick up some fresh ingredients today and give these sides a try! Bon appétit!
FAQs
How much bruschetta per person?
It depends on how much you would like to serve. Generally, for a light appetizer, about 1/4 of a slice of bruschetta per person should suffice.
If you are serving it as the main course, then around 2-3 slices per person are recommended.
Of course, if you’re feeding more people or want more substantial servings, feel free to adjust accordingly. Enjoy!
What kind of bread goes with Bruschetta?
The best bread to pair with Bruschetta is a thick, rustic, Italian-style loaf such as ciabatta or focaccia.
The flavorful toppings of the bruschetta can be enjoyed on top of the crunchy surface and airy pockets inside these types of bread.
If you can’t find an Italian-style bread, another excellent option is a sourdough boule or baguette – both will have enough crunch and texture to stand up to any topping you choose.
You can also use regular sliced sandwich bread if you prefer.
However, it won’t be able to hold up as well when loaded with wet toppings! Whichever type of bread you choose for your bruschetta, make sure it’s fresh and high-quality.
It should be sliced thick enough to support whatever toppings you decide to put on it. Enjoy your delicious Bruschetta!
What soup goes with Bruschetta?
A light tomato-based soup such as minestrone or a creamy vegetable soup is both excellent options to pair with bruschetta.
For something a little more flavorful, try making a gazpacho or adding some herbs and spices to your favorite tomato soup.
You can also opt for a classic bean soup such as white bean and kale or Tuscan-style ribollita.
Whatever you choose, the combination of warm bruschetta and steaming hot soup will make for an unforgettable meal!
What cheese goes with Bruschetta?
Regarding Bruschetta, it’s hard to go wrong with classic Italian cheeses. Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano are perfect for adding a salty, nutty flavor that compliments the tomatoes in Bruschetta beautifully.
If you’re looking for something creamier, try mozzarella or ricotta salata.
For a bit of sharpness, gorgonzola adds some depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with Bruschetta.
Whichever cheese you choose will give your Bruschetta an added layer of flavor and richness that is sure to be a hit!
What meat goes well with bruschetta?
Chicken and fish make great accompaniments for bruschetta. Grilled or baked chicken is especially tasty when topped with a spoonful of bruschetta and served with a side salad.
Fish, such as salmon, trout or tuna, can also be excellent when served over bruschetta.
For lighter fare, try topping your bruschetta with some shrimp or scallops.
Additionally, you could opt to make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with mushrooms, roasted peppers or artichoke hearts.
Whichever type of meat you choose to serve alongside your bruschetta, it’s sure to be delicious! Bon appétit!
How to eat bruschetta without bread?
Bruschetta is a delicious Italian appetizer, but you don’t have to use traditional bread as the base!
You can still enjoy it without bread by substituting it with other crunchy items like cucumber slices, bell pepper slices, zucchini slices or even crackers.
Just top your chosen base with chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and herbs, and you’re all set for a quick and healthy snack.
If you want to make the bruschetta even better, try adding some feta or mozzarella cheese on top before serving. Enjoy!
By skipping the traditional base of bread, you can turn this classic Italian dish into a light and healthy snack in no time!