Jennifer McIlvaine's customers are a loyal bunch. They show up for her bruschetta rain or shine, offering apologies and explanations whenever they've missed a week or placed a smaller-than-usual order.
And no wonder, given the quality of what she serves. After stints at several Seattle restaurants, McIlvaine gave her passion for Italian-inspired seasonal fare its ultimate expression at Bruschettina ("little bruschetta"), the small food stand she sets up each week at several Seattle-area farmers' markets. Armed with a cooler and a portable grill, she serves up to six bruschetta varieties each day, from simple tomato-basil to chickpea and octopus (her specialty).
McIlvaine's bruschettas make the perfect pick-me-up to eat while cruising the stands, and we love them just as much at home, where they make hearty appetizers or casual dinners. We've given her basic bruschetta recipe followed by several of her most popular toppings. The recipes are simple, so use high-quality ingredients — each element should shine. INFO: Visit Bruschettina at these Seattle-area markets:
Ballard (10-5 Sun; Ballard Ave. at 20th Ave. N.W.; www.fremontmarket.com/ballard or 206/781-6776)
Columbia City (3-7 Wed; 4801 Rainier Ave. S.; www.seattlefarmersmarkets.org or 206/547-2278)
Edmonds (9-3 Sat; Fifth and Bell Streets; www.historicedmonds.org/market/market)
