Classic Bruschetta With Tomato and Basil

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 4

Equipment:
Baking sheet
knife
cutting board
mixing bowl
serving platter

Cuisine Type: Italian

Classic Bruschetta With Tomato and Basil is a quintessential Italian appetizer that showcases the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. This dish consists of toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. The perfect balance of flavors makes it an ideal starter for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner party.

The beauty of bruschetta lies in its versatility; you can easily modify the toppings to suit your taste. While the classic version features tomatoes and basil, you can experiment with other ingredients like roasted peppers, olives, or even cheeses. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this bruschetta recipe will surely become a favorite among family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 French baguette or Italian bread
4 ripe tomatoes, diced
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette or Italian bread into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Drizzle with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture generously onto each slice of bread, ensuring every piece is topped with the flavorful mixture.
If desired, drizzle a balsamic glaze over the bruschetta for an added touch of sweetness and depth. Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter and serve immediately while the bread is still warm.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your bruschetta, consider rubbing the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before topping it with the tomato mixture. This adds a subtle garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.

For an extra layer of flavor, try mixing in some crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese with the tomato topping.

Bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the tomato mixture separately in the fridge to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.