Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Mushrooms Capers Anchovies Summer Tapas Menu Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience with minimal effort, and the vibrant combination of earthy mushrooms and tangy goat cheese always elevates my gatherings to the next level. Plus, the rich umami from the anchovies and capers makes each bite so unforgettable that it keeps my friends raving long after they’ve left!

I adore making meals that emphasize the use of seasonal ingredients, and my Goat Cheese Bruschetta with Mushrooms is no exception. It’s a warm weather dish starring fresh mushrooms, which I slice and sauté in oil and minced garlic until they’re golden brown and tender.

I top crisp slices of French baguette with the creamy goat cheese and mushrooms, and then add the finishing touches: a couple of capers and a few bits of anchovy for umami bomb flavor, and a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkling of thyme for an herbaceous, citrusy counterpoint to the richness of the dish.

Ingredients

Goat Cheese:
It is high in protein and calcium, which gives it a creamy texture and a tangy flavor.

Mushrooms:
They are low in calories, high in antioxidants, and offer an earthy, savory flavor.

Capers:
Full of antioxidants, they bring a salty, tangy pop of flavor.

Anchovies:
Rich in omega-3; provide a rich, umami flavor.

Olive Oil:
Nutritious monounsaturated fats increase the richness and flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 4 anchovy fillets, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Your oven should reach a temperature of 400°F (200°C). Your sliced baguette should be on a baking sheet and lightly brushed on both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The baguette should then be placed in the oven for toasting purposes. Set the timer for 5-7 minutes. Once that time frame has elapsed, the baguette should have transformed into something that golden and crisp. Remove and place aside.

2. A medium heat on the stovetop should be used for the skillet. In that skillet, place 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, place some minced garlic in the skillet and let it sauté for a minute, until the aroma comes forth.

3. The mushrooms should be sliced and added to the skillet. They must then be cooked for 5-7 minutes and be stirred occasionally until they are done. The finished product should be browned and tender.

4. Add the minced anchovies and capers, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

5. Combine the fresh lemon juice with the mushroom mixture, season to taste with salt and black pepper, and mix thoroughly. Remove from heat.

6. Each toasted baguette slice should be spread with softened goat cheese, using about 2-3 teaspoons per slice.

7. Warm mushroom mixture placed atop goat cheese, spread evenly across each piece of cheese.

8. Top each bruschetta with freshly chopped parsley and thyme leaves.

9. Place the bruschetta on a serving platter.

10. As part of your summer tapas menu, serve immediately and relish in the rich flavors and enjoy the compact and punchy elements of tapas.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Pastry brush
4. Skillet
5. Stove
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Measuring spoons
9. Mixing spoon
10. Serving platter

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of bread?Of course, you can use any number of crusty, sturdy breads as stand-ins for French baguette when making a topped bread dish. Either ciabatta or any of the bread substitutes would work perfectly; if you’re not using these, then here are a few other replacements that work just as well.
• What can I use instead of goat cheese?If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use cream cheese or ricotta. Vegan cheese alternatives can also work.
• Are there any alternatives to anchovies?If you dislike anchovies, you can leave them out or substitute chopped olives to give the dish a salty depth.
• How do I store leftovers?Leftover bruschetta should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container. Consume it within 1-2 days for the best taste.
• Can this be prepared in advance?You can prepare the mixtures of mushrooms and cheese in advance, but put together the bruschetta right before serving if you want the bread to remain nice and crisp.
• What type of mushrooms is best?Although cremini or button mushrooms are good choices, any of your favorite mushroom varieties can be used for different flavor profiles.
• Is it possible to make this without lemon juice?Fresh lemon juice lends a bright flavor, but if it’s not available, you can substitute a splash of white wine vinegar.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use ciabatta or sourdough in place of the French baguette.
In the absence of goat cheese, you might use feta or cream cheese.
You could use avocado oil or melted butter instead of olive oil.
If fresh lemon juice is not accessible, consider using white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
You can substitute fresh basil or cilantro for fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

1. For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the garlic before mincing and adding it to the skillet. This will create a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor in the dish.

2. Prior to spreading the goat cheese, you can lightly sprinkle the toasted baguette slices with a little flaky sea salt to add an additional crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile.

3. To elevate the mushroom mixture, add a splash of white wine or dry vermouth after cooking the anchovies and capers, allowing it to reduce for a minute. This adds depth and complexity to the flavor.

4. If you prefer a richer taste, consider using a combination of different mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, to add variety to the texture and flavor of the topping.

5. For added freshness and a burst of flavor, lightly zest some lemon over the ready-to-serve bruschetta just before adding the herbs. This will complement the lemon juice in the mixture and enhance the aroma.