Bruschetta With White Beans

Bruschetta lends itself to an unlimited number of toppings, and this combination of white beans and prosciutto is delicious. Use a good quality brand of imported beans to simplify the recipe.









2 Cups Cooked Cannellini Beans (See Cannellini ~ The Pride Of Tuscany For Details) Or 1 (16 oz.) Cans Good Quality Cannellini Beans, Drained

6 Slices Prosciutto, Chopped

2 Cloves Garlic, Minced, Plus One Peeled And Left Whole

Salt & Pepper

Dash Of Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

Olive Oil

3 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Parsley

8 Slices, Good Quality Italian Bread


In frying pan, cook the prosciutto until it has browned. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and cook the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add the beans, salt and pepper, red pepper flakes, and an additional 4 tablespoons olive oil and mix. Cook for a minute or two to heat through. Using a fork, lightly mash the beans. Remove from the heat and add the chopped parsley. If the mixture seems dry, add a little more olive oil, or water.

Grill or broil the bread slices until they are golden brown on both sides. Pierce the whole garlic clove with a fork, and rub the clove over one side of each of the bread slices. Spread the garlic rubbed side of each bread slice with some of the bean mixture. Serve.

Buon Appetito!
Deborah Mele 2007