Name: Pea Bruschetta with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup frozen peas; Small handful of pea shoots (optional); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 clove garlic (save the other half for the bruschetta); Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slices ciabatta bread; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 clove garlic; Additional pea shoots; Fresh parmesan; Lemon zest; Black pepper; Extra virgin olive oil

Introduction

This Pea Bruschetta is a fresh and vibrant twist on a classic Italian appetizer. Bright green peas combined with parmesan and lemon create a delightful topping that’s perfect for any gathering or a simple snack. Crisp ciabatta rounds out the dish with a satisfying crunch.

Pea Bruschetta with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup frozen peas (see note 1)
Small handful of pea shoots (optional)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 clove garlic (save the other half for the bruschetta)
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices ciabatta
2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling on bread)
1/2 clove garlic (for rubbing on toast)
Extra parmesan for garnish
Lemon zest for garnish
Black pepper for garnish
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: To make the pea topping, place the frozen peas, parmesan cheese, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, half a clove of garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Use the pulse button to chop and combine everything until you get a rough paste. Set this aside while you prepare the toast.
Step 2: Preheat your broiler or grill. Drizzle the ciabatta slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then toast them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are crisp and golden brown.
Step 3: While the toast is still warm, lightly rub each slice with the remaining half clove of garlic to infuse a subtle garlic flavor.
Step 4: Spread the pea topping generously over each toasted slice. Top with extra parmesan, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and additional pea shoots if using.
Step 5: Finally, drizzle the bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil and finish with a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh peas when in season for a sweeter, more vibrant topping.
Add fresh mint leaves to the pea topping for a fresh herbal note.
For a vegan version, substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
Lightly toast the pea shoots before adding them for a different texture and flavor.
If you don’t have a food processor, mash the peas with a fork and mix in the rest of the ingredients for a chunkier topping.

Storage

This bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the pea topping separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toast the bread fresh before serving again. Reheat the topping gently to room temperature and assemble as before for the best taste.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas are excellent in this recipe, especially in spring and early summer. Simply blanch them quickly in boiling water, then cool before processing.

Can I prepare this bruschetta in advance?

Prepare the pea topping ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. Toast the bread and assemble just before serving to maintain the bread’s crispness.

Pea Bruschetta with Parmesan and Lemon Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 122 reviews

This Pea Bruschetta recipe offers a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian appetizer. Featuring a bright pea topping blended with parmesan, garlic, and lemon juice, this dish is served on crispy, olive oil-drizzled ciabatta slices, garnished with pea shoots, lemon zest, and black pepper for added flavor and texture. Perfect for a light snack or elegant starter, it’s quick to prepare using simple ingredients and a broiler or grill.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Yield: 6 bruschetta slices 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Pea Topping

1 cup frozen peas
Small handful of pea shoots (optional)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 clove garlic (save the other half for the bruschetta)
Salt and pepper to taste

Bruschetta

6 slices ciabatta bread
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 clove garlic

To Garnish

Additional pea shoots
Fresh parmesan
Lemon zest
Black pepper
Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Make the Pea Topping: Place the frozen peas, pea shoots (if using), grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, half a clove of garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Use the pulse button to chop and combine the ingredients until a rough paste forms. Set this aside while you prepare the toast.
Prepare the Bruschetta: Preheat your broiler or grill to a medium-high heat. Drizzle each slice of ciabatta bread with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated to help achieve a golden, crisp texture when toasted.
Toast the Bread: Place the bread slices under the broiler or on the grill. Toast them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they are crisp and golden brown. Keep a close eye as broilers can vary in power and can burn quickly.
Garlic Rub: While the toasted bread is still warm, take the remaining half clove of garlic and lightly rub it over the surface of each slice to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread the prepared pea topping evenly over the six toasted ciabatta slices. Add extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of each slice to enhance the flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Top each bruschetta with additional pea shoots for freshness. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and finish with a grind of black pepper. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and vibrant flavors.