Bruschetta — a rustic Italian canapé — is the perfect vehicle for the robust flavors of late summer. Serve these topped toasts as a first course or, with a salad and a glass of wine, as a light supper.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 16 <I>bruschetta.</I>
Ingredients
For 16 toasts:
Preparation
Step 1
In a large skillet heat oil over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking and in it sauté onion, stirring, until golden. Transfer onion with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
Step 2
Pat chicken livers dry. Add garlic to skillet and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until pale golden. Add chicken livers and sauté over moderately high heat until golden and just springy to the touch, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side. Stir in minced or crumbled sage, pepper, salt, and allspice and in a food processor coarsely purée. Mound about 2 teaspoons chicken liver mixture on oiled side of each toast and garnish with onions and sage leaves.
To make toasts:
Step 3
Prepare grill or preheat broiler.
Step 4
With a serrated knife cut bread crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Grill slices on a rack set about 4 inches over glowing coals 1 to 1 1/2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp outside but still soft inside. Alternatively, slices may be broiled in batches under a broiler about 4 inches from heat 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, or until golden. Rub toasts with garlic on one side and lightly brush same side with oil. Toasts may be made 1 week ahead and kept in an airtight container. Makes about 45 toasts.
