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Fresh Tomato Basil Bruschetta

fresh tomato basil bruschetta - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and crispy toasted bread, perfect for a light snack or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups diced ripe tomatoes (Roma or cherry tomatoes)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 baguette or rustic country loaf, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry about 2 cups (roughly 300g) of ripe tomatoes. Dice into small, uniform pieces.
  2. Chop or tear a handful of fresh basil leaves (about 10-12 leaves). Set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) balsamic vinegar if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Slice the baguette or rustic loaf into ½-inch (1.25 cm) thick slices. Arrange on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Alternatively, toast slices in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. While the bread is still warm, rub a peeled garlic clove gently across one side of each slice to infuse subtle garlic flavor.
  6. Spoon a generous amount of the tomato-basil mixture onto each slice of toasted bread. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use firm but ripe tomatoes to avoid soggy bread. Drain excess tomato juice if needed. Toast bread until golden and crispy but still tender inside. Rub garlic on warm bread for subtle flavor. Serve immediately to maintain crispness. Tomato mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated separately from bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato basil bruschetta, easy appetizer, fresh tomato recipe, toasted bread snack, quick snack, vegan appetizer