The Italians love bruschetta they are the perfect after work snack, quick and easy to prepare.  I like to use French loaf for these bite size treats.  Brush them with olive oil before baking them till golden and crisp.  Then for a real garlic punch rub them with the cut side of a clove of garlic, the more you rub the stronger the flavour. The sweetness of the parma ham and fresh mozzarella goes really well with the Berry Vodka Tea.

Parma Ham & Mozarella Bruschetta
Makes 18

– 1 loaf French bread
– 60mls Extra Virgin olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, peeled
– 9 slices parma ham
– 2 large mozzarella balls
– 100gms cherry tomatoes, deseeded and roughly chopped
– 2 tbp Balsamic Vinegar
– 6 basil leaves
– salt & pepper

Start by preheating the grill of your oven.  Now slice the French loaf and place on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil on both sides, before placing under the hot grill.  Grill till golden and crispy on both sides.  Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before rubbing the bruschetta with the garlic.  To assemble place the mozzarella first, then the parma ham before topping it with the finely chopped tomato and a few torn pieces of fresh basil.