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Galentine’s Bruschetta Board Ideas Easy Build-Your-Own Party Recipe

Galentine’s Bruschetta Board - featured image

This Galentine’s Bruschetta Board is a festive, customizable, and crowd-pleasing party centerpiece featuring toasted bread and a variety of sweet and savory toppings. Perfect for gatherings, it’s easy to prep, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to spark joy and conversation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 baguettes (about 1 lb total), sliced 1/2-inch thick
  • 1 loaf sourdough bread (optional, about 12 oz), sliced
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 23 fresh garlic cloves, peeled and halved
  • 56 medium Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls, sliced or torn (use dairy-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or vegan ricotta)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
  • 3.5 oz prosciutto or salami, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 6 fresh figs, quartered (when in season)
  • 2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or whipped cream cheese)
  • 1/4 cup crushed pistachios or walnuts
  • Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 cup baby arugula or spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup mixed olives
  • Chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional, for spice lovers)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice baguettes and/or sourdough into 1/2-inch pieces (about 24-30 slices total). Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Brush both sides of bread slices lightly with olive oil.
  4. Bake for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden and crisp. Remove from oven and rub cut side of garlic clove over each toast (optional).
  5. Dice tomatoes, chop basil, and toss with 1-2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  6. Slice or tear mozzarella balls. Place in a small bowl.
  7. Chop roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and other veggies or fruits. Slice strawberries, quarter figs, and place all toppings in small bowls.
  8. Set out ricotta, mascarpone, and other cheeses.
  9. Arrange toasted bread slices on a large serving board or platter.
  10. Nestle bowls of toppings, cheeses, olives, and nuts among the bread.
  11. Scatter fresh basil, arugula, and herbs for color.
  12. Arrange sweet and savory toppings side by side.
  13. Drizzle honey, chili oil, or balsamic glaze over select toppings or serve on the side.
  14. Add serving utensils or small spoons to each bowl.
  15. Sprinkle flakey sea salt over tomatoes and cheese.
  16. Serve at room temperature and encourage guests to build their own bruschetta.

Notes

Prep toppings ahead and toast bread just before serving for best texture. Mix and match toppings based on season and dietary needs. For gluten-free, use GF baguette; for vegan, use plant-based cheeses. Don’t overload the board—leave space for guests to build their own. Store leftover toppings in the fridge and re-toast bread before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta board, party appetizer, Galentine’s Day, build-your-own, vegetarian, easy entertaining, Italian, crostini, cheese board, girls night