Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe

This innovative vegan take on the classic Caprese Bruschetta marries the rich flavors of eggplant with fresh tomatoes and unexpected capers. The key to this recipe is the Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) which acts as a perfect stand-in for traditional non-vegan ingredients.

Photos of Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe

Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) might not be a common ingredient in your pantry. It is a versatile and protein-rich ingredient that is often used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes. It can be found in health food stores or online. Another ingredient that might be less familiar is capers, small flower buds that add a punch of flavor. They can be found in the pickle aisle of most grocery stores.

Ingredients for Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

Textured Vegetable Protein: A high protein, low fat product that is used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Eggplant cutlets: These breaded slices of eggplant add a meaty texture and rich flavor to the dish.

Italian bread loaf: Used as the base of the bruschetta, gives a satisfying crunch.

Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor to the bread and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Firm tomatoes: Adds freshness and a slight tang to balance the other robust flavors.

Capers: These small flower buds add a tangy punch to the dish.

Dehydrated garlic: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.

One reader, Cori Lemke says:

This vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The crispy eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and savory capers create a burst of deliciousness in every bite. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying vegan dish.

Cori Lemke

Mastering the Art of Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta

How to rehydrate textured vegetable protein: Place the textured vegetable protein in a bowl, add boiling water, and stir. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes to rehydrate.

How to bake breaded eggplant cutlets: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place the eggplant cutlets on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for an additional 16 to 17 minutes until golden brown.

How to grill bread slices: Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Slice the bread into 16 slices, approximately ½-inch thick, and brush with olive oil. Cook on the preheated grill for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.

How to soften tomatoes: Place the tomatoes in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for about 3 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and discard any excess liquid.

How to assemble vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts: Arrange the toasted bread slices on a serving dish. Stack one eggplant cutlet on each slice of bread, then top with a dollop of the tomato, caper, and rehydrated textured vegetable protein mixture.

How To Make Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

Serve up this summery caprese bruschetta toasts stacked with breaded eggplant cutlets and tomato-caper paste for a rich side!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 32 minutes

Rest Time: 5 minutes

Total: 47 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cuptextured vegetable protein,such as Bob’s Red Mill® TVP
¾cupboiling water,plus 2 tbsp
16ozbreaded eggplant cutlets,(1 package), frozen, such as Trader Joe’s®
1Italian bread loaf
¼cupolive oil,or as needed
½lbfirm tomatoes,diced
3tbspcapers
¼tspdehydrated garlic,minced or to taste

Instructions

Boil the water. Place the textured vegetable protein in a bowl; add boiling water and stir. Let stand for about 5 to 10 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place the eggplant cutlets on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then flip the cutlets. Bake for about 16 to 17 minutes until golden brown.
Preheat the grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
Slice bread into 16 slices approximately ½-inch thick. Paint the bread with olive oil.
Cook on the preheated grill for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.
Place the tomatoes in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in a microwave for about 3 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and discard excess liquid.
Stir the tomatoes, capers, and dehydrated garlic into the rehydrated textured vegetable protein.
Arrange the toasted bread slices on a serving dish. Stack 1 eggplant on each slice of bread, then top with a dollop of tomato mixture.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 140.73kcal
Fat: 4.17g
Saturated Fat: 0.65g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.67g
Carbohydrates: 16.37g
Fiber: 3.99g
Sugar: 3.23g
Protein: 9.20g
Sodium: 163.38mg
Calcium: 67.28mg
Potassium: 121.37mg
Iron: 2.32mg
Vitamin A: 6.35µg
Vitamin C: 2.65mg

Elevate Your Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta with This Simple Technique Tip

When preparing the eggplant cutlets, ensure they are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This allows for even heat distribution, resulting in a uniformly golden brown and crispy texture. Additionally, when grilling the bread, keep a close eye on it as it can quickly go from toasted to burnt. Lastly, when microwaving the tomatoes, it's best to cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent any splatters. This also helps to steam the tomatoes, making them soften faster.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

Prep ahead: Prepare the textured vegetable protein and breaded eggplant cutlets in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-made: Consider using pre-made breaded eggplant cutlets to cut down on preparation time.

Multi-task: While the eggplant cutlets are baking, prepare the other components of the dish to save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of the tomato and textured vegetable protein mixture and store it for future use in other recipes.

Efficient assembly: Set up a production line for assembling the bruschetta toasts to streamline the process and save time.

Pre-sliced bread: Purchase pre-sliced bread to eliminate the step of slicing the bread loaf, saving time and effort.

Quick tomato prep: Use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes to save time on chopping and preparation.

Consolidate steps: Look for opportunities to combine or eliminate steps in the recipe to make the process more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe

textured vegetable protein - Substitute with cooked quinoa: Quinoa has a similar texture and can provide a protein-rich base for the dish.
breaded eggplant cutlets - Substitute with homemade breaded tofu slices: Tofu can be breaded and baked to achieve a similar crispy texture and absorb flavors well.
italian bread loaf - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread offers a tangy flavor and sturdy texture that complements the other ingredients.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for cooking and drizzling.
firm tomatoes - Substitute with heirloom tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes offer a variety of colors and flavors, adding visual appeal and a unique taste to the dish.
capers - Substitute with sliced green olives: Green olives provide a similar briny and tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the bruschetta.
dehydrated garlic - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic adds a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to dehydrated garlic.

Elevate Your Bruschetta Game with These Presentation Tips

Elevate the eggplant: Gently layer the breaded eggplant cutlets on the toasted bread slices, ensuring they are evenly distributed and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the assembled bruschetta toasts to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create an elegant drizzle of balsamic reduction on the serving platter, adding a touch of sweetness and sophistication to the dish.
Arrange in a circular pattern: Place the bruschetta toasts in a circular pattern on the serving dish, creating a visually striking presentation that showcases the layers of flavors.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients to take center stage without overwhelming the dish with unnecessary elements.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, to add a delicate and visually stunning element to the presentation, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Consider the negative space: Utilize negative space on the serving platter to create a balanced and visually appealing composition, allowing the bruschetta toasts to stand out as the focal point.
Add a touch of microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the top of the bruschetta toasts, adding a subtle hint of freshness and a refined touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Crafting Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and spreads.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.

Preserving the Flavors: Storing and Freezing Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

To store leftover vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The bread may become slightly soggy, but the flavors will still be delicious.
If you want to prepare the components ahead of time, you can store the cooked eggplant cutlets and the tomato mixture separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toast the bread and assemble the bruschetta just before serving for the best texture.
To freeze the eggplant cutlets, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cutlets to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the frozen cutlets on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
The tomato mixture can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Place the mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight before using it to top the bruschetta.
It is not recommended to freeze the assembled bruschetta toasts, as the bread will become soggy and the texture will be compromised. It is best to assemble the bruschetta just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Reviving Leftover Bruschetta Toasts: A Guide to Reheating

To reheat leftover vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the toasts on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore the crunchiness of the bread while keeping the eggplant and tomato mixture warm and flavorful.
Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven to reheat the bruschetta toasts. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the toasts inside. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as toaster ovens can heat more quickly than conventional ovens.
For a quicker reheating method, use a microwave. Place the vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds. Check the toasts and continue heating in 15-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Note that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven or toaster oven reheating.
If you prefer a crispy base and a cold topping, you can reheat the bread slices separately using any of the above methods. Once the bread is warm and crispy, add the chilled eggplant and tomato mixture on top. This method is perfect for hot summer days when you want a refreshing appetizer or snack.
For a stovetop reheating option, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the bruschetta toasts in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method works well if you only have a few toasts to reheat and want to avoid turning on the oven.

Discover an Intriguing Fact About Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

The eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts recipe is a delightful vegan twist on the classic Italian dish. It combines the rich flavors of breaded eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and savory capers, creating a mouthwatering appetizer or snack. This recipe offers a unique way to enjoy the beloved caprese flavors in a vegan-friendly manner.

Budget-Friendly Entertaining: Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like textured vegetable protein and breaded eggplant cutlets makes it budget-friendly. The recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic caprese bruschetta, making it a great option for a family meal or entertaining guests. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Vegan Eggplant Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates vegetables like eggplant and tomatoes, which are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. The use of textured vegetable protein provides a plant-based protein source, making it suitable for vegans. However, the recipe also includes some less healthy elements. The breaded eggplant cutlets are likely to be high in calories and may contain unhealthy fats if deep-fried. The bread, depending on the type used, could be refined and lacking in fiber. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which, while healthy in moderation, can contribute to a higher calorie count.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole grain bread instead of white bread to increase the fiber content
Opt for baked or grilled eggplant instead of breaded and fried cutlets to reduce the calorie and fat content
Reduce the amount of olive oil used, or use a cooking spray to lightly coat the bread
Add more vegetables to the tomato mixture, such as diced bell peppers or onions, to increase the nutrient density
Use fresh garlic instead of dehydrated garlic for more potent health benefits
Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt or oil

Our Editor's Take on This Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe

This vegan eggplant caprese bruschetta toasts recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The use of breaded eggplant cutlets adds a satisfying crunch, while the rehydrated textured vegetable protein provides a meaty element. The combination of tomatoes, capers, and dehydrated garlic creates a burst of savory goodness, perfectly complementing the grilled bread. Overall, this dish offers a unique twist on the classic caprese bruschetta, making it a delicious and satisfying option for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Enhance Your Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and roast until tender and slightly crispy.

Mango Avocado Salad: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, and cilantro with a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing and colorful side salad.

Coconut Curry Cauliflower Rice: Sauté riced cauliflower with coconut milk, curry powder, and a touch of turmeric for a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Explore These Delightful Alternatives to Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts

Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines bell peppers, quinoa, black beans, and a variety of spices for a flavorful dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and vibrant salsa recipe that combines ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, red onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a perfect summer appetizer.

Coconut Curry Lentil Soup: A comforting and aromatic soup recipe that combines red lentils, coconut milk, curry spices, and a variety of vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Perfect Pairings: Main Courses and Desserts to Complement Your Bruschetta Toasts

Main Courses:

Vegan Eggplant Parmesan: Create a flavorful and satisfying main course by layering crispy breaded eggplant with marinara sauce and vegan cheese, then baking until bubbly and golden brown. Serve with a side of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal with a plant-based twist.

Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a creamy and comforting risotto made with arborio rice, flavorful mushrooms, and a touch of white wine. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious and elegant main course that's perfect for a special occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and satisfying option for anyone looking for a flavorful and wholesome dish. The combination of breaded eggplant cutlets and savory textured vegetable protein creates a hearty and satisfying base. The addition of capers and dehydrated garlic infuses the dish with rich, aromatic flavors. The use of olive oil and fresh firm tomatoes ensures that the dish is both nutritious and delicious. Trust in the quality and balance of these ingredients to create a delightful and memorable culinary experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Vegan Eggplant Caprese Bruschetta Toasts Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks, tips, or serving suggestions you might have!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh eggplant instead of breaded eggplant cutlets?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh eggplant instead of breaded eggplant cutlets. Simply slice the eggplant into rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill or bake until tender and golden brown.

Can I substitute the textured vegetable protein with something else?

If you prefer, you can substitute the textured vegetable protein with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu for a similar protein-rich filling.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or toast and ensure that the breaded eggplant cutlets are gluten-free as well. You can also use a gluten-free alternative for the textured vegetable protein, such as quinoa or chickpeas.

Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using it as a topping for the bruschetta toasts.

Can I add other toppings to the bruschetta toasts?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with additional toppings such as fresh basil, balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of vegan cheese to customize the bruschetta toasts to your liking.