Description
This fresh and vibrant Tomato Bruschetta recipe features ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, served atop toasted baguette or ciabatta slices. It’s a perfect appetizer or light snack that’s quick to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 8 medium tomatoes (about 500g), coarsely chopped and drained
- 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 30ml balsamic vinegar
- 60-80ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread
- 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced
- Olive oil to brush on bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Combine the coarsely chopped tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, crushed garlic, and chopped basil leaves in a mixing bowl to form the flavorful base of the bruschetta.
- Season the Mixture: Drizzle the tomato mixture with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, stirring thoroughly to blend the flavors evenly throughout.
- Let it Marinate: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then set the mixture aside for 10-15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and the flavors to deepen.
- Preheat the Oven or Grill Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat in preparation for toasting the bread slices.
- Prepare the Bread Slices: Lightly brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil to ensure a golden and crisp toast once cooked.
- Toast the Bread: Place bread slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or grill each side for 1-2 minutes until they are nicely golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Generously spoon the marinated tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice, ensuring each piece is well topped.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired and serve right away for the freshest taste and best texture.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe, juicy tomatoes and fresh basil.
- Drain tomatoes well to avoid soggy bruschetta.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for pungency.
- The bread can be toasted under a broiler for faster results but watch closely to prevent burning.
- This bruschetta is best enjoyed immediately to maintain the crispness of the toast.
