Description
This classic bruschetta recipe features toasted baguette slices topped with a flavorful mixture of ripe Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a quick and easy appetizer, perfect for gatherings or a light snack, that combines crunchy toasted bread with a fresh, savory topping.
Ingredients
Bread and Topping
- 1 baguette, sliced in ½-inch slices
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 8 Roma tomatoes, seeded and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler. Arrange a rack in the upper third of your oven and turn the oven broiler to HIGH to get ready for toasting the bread.
- Toast the bread. Brush one side of each baguette slice with olive oil and arrange them, oiled side up, on a rimmed sheet pan. Broil for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Rub garlic on toasted bread. Once toasted, rub the toasted side of each bread slice with garlic cloves, using about one-third of a garlic clove per slice, to infuse the warm bread with garlic aroma and flavor.
- Prepare the tomato mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes with kosher salt and let sit for 5 minutes. Then drain off any excess juice. Stir in ⅓ cup olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and chopped fresh basil to create a fresh, savory topping.
- Assemble bruschetta. Spoon an even amount of the tomato mixture over each garlic-rubbed toast slice. Serve immediately to keep the bread crisp and fresh.
Notes
- Use a ripe but firm Roma tomato for the best flavor and texture.
- Broiling time can vary depending on your oven; watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve bruschetta immediately to maintain the crispiness of the bread.
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little more balsamic vinegar just before serving.
- Optionally, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian