{nibble} Bruschetta Dip

This isn't a true Bruschetta but it was born from one or two. Bruschetta is typically a grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with a very delicious and simple mixture of tomato, basil and olive oil.

Ok you can stop here if you want because truly - that's all you need!

In fact I really should rename this dish (tomato caper spread... or maybe... artichoke heart tomato chutney ... hmmm no perhaps.... chop up everything yummy and spread it on some bread ... not bad). Unfortunately, (or not) this is what I have called it for a couple of years now bruschetta dip. My husband, kids and friends know it as ,"that bruschetta dip thing you make." - all good.

It would be far to hard to give the naming rights to just one ingredient. Is it the tomato that carries the ball? Then there are the capers that provide the perfect balance of sweet and salty, not to forget the artichoke heart and hearts of palm that are just fun and different, ooooh, oooh wait ... can't forget the kick of red pepper and the zip of lemon zest. Ok - the name sticks for now!

It is so fresh-tasting and addicting ... seriously you won't be able to stop at one bite.

tomato bruschetta dip (thing) by ann west

cherub tomatoes diced

hearts of palm split and chopped

artichoke hearts chopped

1 shallot chopped fine

capers - start with 1-2 tbls

red pepper flakes

fresh cut basil - julienne

fresh parsley chopped

zest of a lemon

salt and pepper to taste

generous glugs of olive oil

Mix and accompany with crusty bread or a good cracker bread.

Enjoy with friends!