Name: Lemon Cannellini Bean Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 slices crusty bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta), 1cm (0.5 inch) thick, preferably slightly stale; 1 garlic clove, halved (unpeeled); Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling; 1 can (15oz/420g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; Zest of half a lemon; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This Lemon Cannellini Bean Bruschetta is a bright and refreshing twist on a classic Italian appetizer. With creamy beans, zesty lemon, and crispy toasted bread, it makes a simple yet flavorful snack or starter perfect for any occasion.

The image shows three slices of toasted bread arranged closely on a wooden board. The first slice in the foreground has a thick layer of creamy white and light green seafood salad with visible herbs finely chopped and mixed throughout. To its left, the second slice is topped with a chunky, bright green avocado spread that looks smooth with small bits of avocado texture. To the right, the third slice holds a juicy, vibrant red tomato topping cut into small pieces with green basil leaves scattered on top. In the blurry background, a lemon wedge and some garlic cloves sit on a white marbled surface, adding to the freshness of the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 slices of good quality crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta, sliced 1cm (0.5″) thick, preferably slightly stale
1 garlic clove, halved (unpeeled)
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
1 can cannellini beans (15oz/420g)
Zest of half a lemon
1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped, plus extra to garnish
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat a griddle pan or barbecue (grill side, not hotplate side) on high heat.
Step 2: Place the bread slices on the griddle or barbecue and cook each side until toasted and golden brown with char lines. Alternatively, toast the bread in a toaster or under a grill.
Step 3: Remove the toasted bread from heat and rub the cut side of the garlic clove lightly over each slice to infuse flavor.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the cannellini beans, lemon zest, lemon juice, and finely chopped parsley. Mash about half the beans with a fork, leaving some whole for texture.
Step 5: Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness may vary depending on the beans brand.
Step 6: Spread the lemon cannellini bean topping evenly over the toasted bread slices.
Step 7: Garnish with extra parsley and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use slightly stale bread for better toasting and crunch.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro to change the herb note.
Use freshly cooked cannellini beans if preferred for a fresher taste.

Storage

Assemble the bruschetta just before serving to keep the bread crisp. If needed, store the lemon cannellini topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the toasted bread briefly before spreading the topping to refresh its crunch.

How to Serve

Three slices of toasted bread are placed on a wooden board with fresh parsley garnish and a couple of garlic cloves nearby. The first slice is topped with a creamy beige chickpea mixture sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The second slice has a bright green, chunky spread that looks like mashed avocado or similar, covering the entire surface. The third slice is piled with chopped red tomatoes mixed with green basil leaves. Behind the bread, there are three white bowls: one filled with the same mashed green spread, one with the creamy chickpea mix with a spoon inside, and the last one with the tomato and basil mix. Some lemon wedges and grilled bread slices are visible in the background on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans for this bruschetta?

Yes, white beans like Great Northern or navy beans work well. You can also try chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to toast the bread on a grill or griddle pan?

No, you can toast the bread in a toaster or under a broiler if a grill or griddle pan is not available. The goal is to get a crunchy, golden surface to hold the topping well.