Description
Irresistible Tomato Basil Bruschetta invites Mediterranean flavors onto crisp toasted bread, blending ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. Crisp, zesty slices promise a delightful Italian-inspired starter that brings summer’s essence directly to your plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6 ripe Roma tomatoes (or any fresh tomatoes of your choice)
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch slices
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra olive oil for brushing
Optional Topping:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Carefully cube ripe tomatoes into uniform, petite morsels, focusing on achieving a consistent texture that allows for easy consumption.
- Transfer the diced tomatoes into a spacious mixing vessel, incorporating finely minced garlic and delicately chopped basil leaves.
- Enhance the tomato medley with a luxurious drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of tangy balsamic vinegar, then season with a judicious pinch of salt and cracked black pepper.
- Gently fold the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to harmonize and develop complexity while resting at room temperature.
- Position the oven rack near the broiling element and activate the high-temperature setting.
- Select a crusty baguette and slice it diagonally into elegant, half-inch thick medallions.
- Meticulously brush each bread slice with a velvety coat of olive oil, ensuring complete coverage on both surfaces.
- Position the bread slices on a sturdy baking sheet and slide them under the broiler, monitoring vigilantly to achieve a golden, crisp exterior without scorching.
- Remove the toasted bread and delicately rub each slice with a halved garlic clove, imparting an aromatic essence.
- Generously ladle the macerated tomato mixture atop each crisp bread slice, creating an abundant and inviting presentation.
- Optional: Sprinkle a delicate shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese across the bruschetta for an additional layer of savory sophistication.
Notes
- Opt for Roma tomatoes to ensure a less watery and more concentrated tomato flavor that holds up better on crispy bread.
- Allow the tomato mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, letting the herbs and olive oil infuse deeper flavors.
- Toast bread just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- Rub garlic clove on warm toast for an extra layer of aromatic intensity that elevates the entire appetizer.
- Fresh basil and high-quality extra virgin olive oil are key to creating an authentic, vibrant bruschetta experience.
- Serve immediately after assembling to preserve the perfect balance of crisp bread and juicy tomato mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg