Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette or rustic bread, sliced into ½-inch pieces
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh mozzarella or shaved Parmesan (for cheesy twist)
- 1/2 avocado, chopped (for avocado upgrade)
- Red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños (for spicy flair)
- Fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley (for herb variations)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Finely dice fresh tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add minced garlic and chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Toast the Bread: Slice the baguette or rustic bread into ½-inch thick pieces. Toast each slice under a broiler or in a skillet until golden and crisp on both sides to create a crunchy base that holds the juicy toppings without getting soggy.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Once the bread slices have cooled slightly, spoon a generous amount of the tomato mixture onto each piece. If desired, finish each bruschetta with a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar or additional olive oil for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter, garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh look, and serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the freshest and most flavorful topping.
- Always toast the bread thoroughly to prevent sogginess and maintain crunch.
- Prepare the tomato topping at least 10 minutes ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning by tasting the mixture before serving and adding more salt or olive oil as needed.
- Serve bruschetta immediately after assembling to enjoy optimal texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bruschetta pieces (approx.)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bruschetta, Italian appetizer, toasted bread, tomato basil garlic, easy snack, quick appetizer, gluten free options