Turn this popular flavor combination into bite-size appetizers with an Italian twist.

Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato Bruschetta

8 to 10 slices bacon, crispy cooked and crumbled
3 to 4 Roma (plum) tomatoes, seeded and chopped (about 1 1/3 cup)
1 cup chopped leafy green lettuce
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Approximately 1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 package (16-ounce) twin French bread loaves, cut in 1/4-inch slices
1/3 cup favorite crumble cheese, blue cheese or feta (optional)

1. In medium bowl, stir together all topping ingredients; set aside.
2. Brush olive oil on both sides of bread slices; place on baking sheet.
3. Bake at 400°F (205°C), turning once, for 7 minutes per side or until crisp and golden brown; cool.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon topping on each toast round.*

Makes about 24 appetizers.

* Or, serve topping in a small bowl, surrounded by the toast rounds.

Tailgate Tip: Prepare and refrigerate topping ingredients and bake toast rounds ahead of time. For best flavor, stir together topping ingredients just before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/24 of recipe): Calories: 68 calories; Protein: 2 grams; Fat: 5 grams; Sodium: 121 milligrams; Cholesterol: 2 milligrams; Saturated Fat: 1 grams; Carbohydrates: 6 grams; Fiber: 1 grams

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Pork: The Other White Meat.