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Pea Bruschetta with Parmesan and Lemon 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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Notes

  • Frozen peas should be thawed before blending for easier processing.
  • Pea shoots are optional but add a fresh, green flavor and attractive garnish.
  • Keep a close watch when toasting under the broiler or grill to prevent burning.
  • Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor impact.
  • Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste depending on your preference.

Keywords: pea bruschetta, easy appetizer, spring recipe, Italian bruschetta, vegetarian starter