Description
Classic Bruschetta is the perfect Italian appetizer made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, all atop toasted bread and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. This simple yet flavorful dish bursts with flavor, making it an ideal starter for any meal or a light, healthy snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this bruschetta recipe will transport you straight to Italy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bruschetta:
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced (Roma tomatoes are ideal)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you love garlic)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toasted Bread:
- 1 loaf baguette or ciabatta bread
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for brushing the bread)
- 1 clove garlic, halved (for rubbing on the toast)
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato topping: Dice the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix gently and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette or ciabatta into 1/2-inch slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice with olive oil using a pastry brush.
- Toast the bread: Toast the bread in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the bread to avoid over-toasting.
- Add garlic to the bread: After toasting, rub each slice with a halved garlic clove to infuse it with flavor.
- Assemble the bruschetta: Spoon a generous amount of the tomato mixture onto each piece of toasted bread. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve the bruschetta as an appetizer for your next Italian dinner or at a gathering with friends and family.
Notes
- Use fresh tomatoes: Roma tomatoes work best for bruschetta as they’re firm and juicy.
- Let the topping sit: Allow the tomato mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
- Toast the bread just right: The bread should be crispy on the outside but still tender inside. Don’t over-toast.
- Rubbing garlic on the toast: After toasting, rub garlic on the bread to infuse it with extra flavor.
- Serve immediately: Assemble the bruschetta just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Classic Bruschetta, Italian Bruschetta, Tomato Bruschetta, Easy Bruschetta Recipe, Italian Appetizer, Fresh Bruschetta, Healthy Appetizer, Bruschetta with Garlic