Bruschetta with Butterbean Mash

Bruschetta is like the little black dress of appetisers—it’s simple, timeless, and always a hit.

But sometimes, even a classic deserves a makeover. That’s where this bruschetta with butterbean mash comes in.

This recipe takes everything we love about the traditional version—crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil—and adds a luscious, creamy layer of butterbean goodness.

It’s the perfect blend of rustic and refined, offering a satisfying bite that’s just as good for impressing guests as it is for a quiet snack on a lazy afternoon.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this Bruschetta with Butterbean Mash recipe:

• 6 salad tomatoes
• 1 baguette (even slightly stale works perfectly)
• 30g fresh basil
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tin butterbeans
• Pinch of sea salt

Why Butterbean Mash Takes Bruschetta to the Next Level

If you’ve never tried butterbean mash before, prepare to have your mind blown.

Butterbeans (also known as lima beans) have a naturally creamy texture that’s just begging to be turned into a silky spread.

When warmed and blended with a touch of olive oil, basil, and a pinch of salt, they transform into a luxurious base that makes your bruschetta feel both hearty and elegant.

It’s also a fantastic way to sneak some extra protein and fibre into a dish that’s otherwise all about the carbs.

Trust me, once you try this, you’ll start finding excuses to slather butterbean mash on everything.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the crown jewel of this dish, so picking the right ones is key.

Salad tomatoes are a great choice—they’re juicy, slightly sweet, and perfect for dicing.

If you want to go all out, splurge on vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season.

Their rich, complex flavours can elevate this bruschetta from “really good” to “next-level amazing.”

Don’t forget to wash them thoroughly before dicing to ensure their natural freshness shines through in every bite.

Stale Bread? No Problem!

Here’s a little secret: bruschetta is actually better when made with slightly stale bread.

Why? Because it holds up better when toasted, creating a crunchy foundation that doesn’t go soggy under all those delicious toppings.

If you’ve got a baguette that’s a day or two past its prime, this recipe is its time to shine.

Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste—win-win!

The Herb That Brings It All Together

Fresh basil is the unsung hero of this recipe.

Its bright, peppery flavour cuts through the richness of the butterbean mash and the sweetness of the tomatoes, tying everything together beautifully.

For the best results, use freshly picked basil (if you’ve got a plant on your windowsill, even better).

Chopping it finely ensures that every bite is infused with its wonderful aroma.

And don’t skimp—you’ll want plenty for both the mash and the topping.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Slice Your Bread

Start by slicing your baguette into diagonal pieces about 1 inch thick.

Cutting it on the diagonal not only looks more elegant but also gives you a larger surface area for those tasty toppings.

And don’t fret if your bread is a little stale—it’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven or under the grill.

Step 2: Toast It Just Right

Brush each slice generously with olive oil, making sure to coat the edges for an even golden finish.

Toast them at 180°C for about 4 minutes in the oven, or pop them under the grill for 2 minutes.

The goal is to achieve a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the inside slightly soft for a perfect bite.

Step 3: Warm Up the Butterbeans

Drain and rinse your tin of butterbeans, then transfer them to a saucepan over medium heat.

Warm them gently, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking.

This step is crucial as it softens the beans, making them easier to blend into a smooth mash.

Step 4: Blend the Butterbean Mash

Once warmed, toss the butterbeans into a blender or food processor.

Add a pinch of sea salt and half of the chopped basil (about 15g) to infuse the mash with fresh, herby goodness.

Blend until smooth and creamy.

If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of olive oil or warm water until you get the perfect consistency.

Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Topping

Wash and dice the salad tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.

Combine them in a bowl with the olive oil, the remaining chopped basil, and a pinch of sea salt.

Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly coated in the herby, fragrant oil.

Set aside to let the flavours meld together.

Step 6: Assemble the Bruschetta

Now for the fun part: assembly!

Take your toasted bread slices and spread a generous dollop of butterbean mash on each one.

Top with a spoonful of the tomato and basil mixture, making sure each piece is loaded with flavour.

For the finishing touch, drizzle over some of the infused oil from the tomato bowl and serve

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customise the toppings?

Absolutely! While this recipe is a winner as is, you can get creative with additional toppings like crumbled feta, roasted garlic, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The possibilities are endless.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers (unlikely, but it happens), store the butterbean mash and tomato topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge.

Re-toast the bread fresh for the best results when serving again.

Can I use dried butterbeans instead of tinned?

You can! Just soak and cook them beforehand according to the package instructions.

It’s a bit more time-consuming but offers a richer flavour.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Definitely! Every ingredient in this recipe is plant-based, making it a fantastic vegan option that’s also loaded with protein and flavour.

What should I serve alongside this dish?

Bruschetta with butterbean mash makes a lovely starter or snack, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad or a light soup for a more substantial meal.

It’s also fantastic alongside a glass of crisp white wine.

And that’s it for this Bruschetta with Butterbean Mash recipe. You can find the whole thing on a handy recipe card just below, so be sure to Pin it for later!

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