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Fresh Tomato Basil Bruschetta

fresh tomato basil bruschetta - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy toasted bread topped with a fresh mixture of ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium fresh Roma tomatoes, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 loaf French baguette or ciabatta bread, sliced about 1/2-inch thick
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella balls for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine diced Roma tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently to mix evenly. Drain excess liquid if tomatoes are too watery.
  3. Slice the baguette or ciabatta into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  4. Toast the bread slices in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through until both sides are golden and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  5. Optional: Rub a peeled garlic clove over the warm toasted bread for extra garlic flavor.
  6. Spoon a generous amount of the tomato basil mixture onto each toasted slice. Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella balls if desired.
  7. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the assembled bruschettas and sprinkle additional salt and pepper if desired.
  8. Serve immediately to enjoy the bread crispy and the tomato topping fresh.

Notes

Toast the bread well to prevent sogginess. Drain excess liquid from tomatoes if needed. Assemble just before serving for best texture. Can prepare tomato mixture up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato basil bruschetta, appetizer, toasted bread, fresh tomato, basil, easy recipe, Italian appetizer