Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Tomato Basil Bruschetta is a delightful appetizer that encapsulates the flavors of summer, featuring crispy toasted bread topped with vibrant, juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for gatherings or as a light snack, promising to impress with its fresh ingredients and colorful presentation. Enjoy it warm, drizzled with balsamic vinegar for an extra burst of flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 as an appetizer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or ciabatta bread (10 oz)
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette or ciabatta into half-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Toast the bread in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Once the bread is toasted, top each slice generously with the tomato mixture.
- Serve immediately on a platter, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces (70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider mixing in diced mozzarella or avocado for creaminess or adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Store any leftover tomato mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days; however, toast new bread slices just before serving to maintain crispness.