CategoryAppetizers, Vegetarian
Tomato Basil Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that combines simple, fresh ingredients for a flavorful bite. Crunchy toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant tomato mixture, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This dish is perfect for summer evenings or as a starter for any Italian-inspired meal.
For the Tomato Topping
5 roma tomatoes (or 4 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, diced small)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped finely)
3 cloves garlic (minced or finely grated)
2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Baguette
1 qt baguette (sliced into 1/2-inch-thick slices)
3 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
1 clove garlic (peeled and halved, for rubbing the bread)
Optional Garnishes
Balsamic glaze (drizzle for sweetness and presentation)
Additional basil leaves (for garnish)
Prepare the Tomato Mixture
1
-
Dice the Tomatoes:
- Cut the tomatoes into small, even-sized pieces. Remove excess seeds and juice to avoid soggy bread.
- Place the diced tomatoes in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
-
Add Flavor:
- To the bowl, add the minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Meanwhile, prepare the baguette.
Toast the Baguette
2
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat a grill pan if toasting on the stovetop.
-
Slice and Brush:
- Slice the baguette diagonally into pieces about 1/2-inch thick for a larger surface area.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
-
Toast Until Golden:
- Toast the bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. If using a grill pan, toast for about 2 minutes on each side over medium-high heat.
- Once toasted, rub one side of each slice with the halved garlic clove for added flavor.
Assemble the Bruschetta
3
-
Top the Bread:
- Spoon a generous amount of the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices, allowing the juices to drip off slightly before placing.
-
Drizzle and Garnish:
- Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the assembled bruschetta for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
Serving Suggestions
4
- Serve immediately while the bread is still warm to contrast with the cool tomato topping.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Pro Tips
5
- Tomato Variety: Roma tomatoes are ideal because they are less watery. If using other varieties, remove seeds and juice to avoid sogginess.
- Advance Prep: The tomato mixture can be made up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the bread.
- Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan or crumbled feta on top for an extra flavor dimension.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Topping
5 roma tomatoes (or 4 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, diced small)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped finely)
3 cloves garlic (minced or finely grated)
2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Baguette
1 qt baguette (sliced into 1/2-inch-thick slices)
3 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
1 clove garlic (peeled and halved, for rubbing the bread)
Optional Garnishes
Balsamic glaze (drizzle for sweetness and presentation)
Additional basil leaves (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Tomato Mixture
1
-
Dice the Tomatoes:
- Cut the tomatoes into small, even-sized pieces. Remove excess seeds and juice to avoid soggy bread.
- Place the diced tomatoes in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
-
Add Flavor:
- To the bowl, add the minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Meanwhile, prepare the baguette.
Toast the Baguette
2
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat a grill pan if toasting on the stovetop.
-
Slice and Brush:
- Slice the baguette diagonally into pieces about 1/2-inch thick for a larger surface area.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
-
Toast Until Golden:
- Toast the bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. If using a grill pan, toast for about 2 minutes on each side over medium-high heat.
- Once toasted, rub one side of each slice with the halved garlic clove for added flavor.
Assemble the Bruschetta
3
-
Top the Bread:
- Spoon a generous amount of the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices, allowing the juices to drip off slightly before placing.
-
Drizzle and Garnish:
- Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the assembled bruschetta for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
Serving Suggestions
4
- Serve immediately while the bread is still warm to contrast with the cool tomato topping.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Pro Tips
5
- Tomato Variety: Roma tomatoes are ideal because they are less watery. If using other varieties, remove seeds and juice to avoid sogginess.
- Advance Prep: The tomato mixture can be made up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the bread.
- Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan or crumbled feta on top for an extra flavor dimension.
Notes
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