Description
Classic Italian appetizer featuring crispy toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread
- 1 whole garlic clove for rubbing
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Dice the Roma tomatoes after removing seeds and excess juice. Transfer to a medium bowl.
- 2. Add chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to the tomatoes. Toss gently and let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature.
- 3. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- 4. Preheat oven to 400°F or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- 5. Brush bread slices lightly with olive oil and toast for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- 6. Immediately rub one side of each toasted slice with the whole garlic clove while hot.
- 7. Just before serving, use a slotted spoon to place tomato mixture on each bread slice.
- 8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, assemble bruschetta no more than 15-20 minutes before serving to maintain crispy bread. Store tomato mixture and toasted bread separately if preparing ahead. Tomato mixture keeps refrigerated for up to 2 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g