Description
Crunchy toasted bread topped with a fresh mix of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. A simple yet flavorful Italian appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 10 to 12 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 10 minutes to marinate.
- Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet or grill them. Toast each side until golden and crisp.
- Rub a garlic clove over the warm toasted bread.
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously on top of each slice.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
- Serve immediately while the bread is crisp and the topping is fresh.
Notes
- Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor.
- Let the tomato mixture rest to develop deeper flavor and reduce moisture.
- Toast bread well to prevent sogginess from the topping.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or sprinkle with grated parmesan for richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: tomato bruschetta, easy appetizer, Italian starter, fresh tomato recipe, vegetarian bruschetta