bruschetta at home!

Happy Monday! In case you were not aware, I consider myself a "carbivore". Giving up meat was pretty easy from a craving standpoint, and outside of calamari and salmon, I don't miss it. But if this Mr. Atkins person knocked on my door and said I would have to give up carbs, I would probably faint on the spot! I LOVE carbs. Bread and rice are LIFE. With that said, I am always looking for funky ways to consume toasted baguette. Steeve and I went to Miami in February, and we were served some AMAZING avocado toast. Ever since then, I have been obsessed with various bread toppings. Bruschetta has always been one of my favorites, and since I am on avocado punishment this week for ODing the last 2 months, it was time to recreate this staple. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 chopped vine-ripe tomatoes [feel free to substitute with regular, but these taste significantly better to me]

1/2 cup chopped leeks

1 tbs. chopped jalapeños

salt [to taste]

cracked pepper

olive oil

dried Italian herbs [basil, oregano, parsley]

a few strips of sun-dried tomatoes [optional]

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degree.

2. Combine ingredients in an aluminum pan or baking sheet.

3. Place in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until you can't wait another second. I like to let the flavors meld together, but to take it out before the tomatoes become mushy. As you can see in the photo, the tomatoes are still somewhat firm and have structure to them still.

4. During these 20-25 minutes, I sliced some baguette and placed them alongside my mixture to get warm and crispy. Feel free to use any kind of bread.

5. Place portions of your warmed mixture atop your bread, and VOILA!

I am a huge fan of sun-dried tomatoes. They are pungent and add depth to any dish. I make a spread sometimes with tons of sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. AMAZING!

Generally, bruschetta calls for garlic instead of leeks. I substituted in this recipe, and so can you!

Have a pleasant and productive week. Remember to do something for yourself this week that makes YOU and you alone happy. Never forget to self-love.

Peace, Kings & Queens

xoxo

Shanelle Julia Rosita Campbell