Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted crusty bread topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and high-quality olive oil. This simple yet flavorful bruschetta is perfect for entertaining, quick snacks, or elegant starters that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or grill pan
- Garlic press or microplane (optional)
- Serving platter or wooden board
Ingredients
- 1 rustic Italian loaf, ciabatta, or French baguette, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
- 3 cups ripe tomatoes (Roma, cherry, or heirloom), diced and drained
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade or finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (plus 1 whole clove for rubbing bread)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing bread
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic vinegar or glaze, red onion finely diced, fresh mozzarella or burrata for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare grill pan for toasting.
- Drain diced tomatoes in a sieve or colander for 10–15 minutes to remove excess juice.
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let rest 10 minutes to marry flavors.
- Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet or grill pan. Brush lightly with olive oil. Toast in the oven or on the grill until golden brown and crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- While still warm, rub toasted bread with the cut side of a whole garlic clove to infuse subtle garlic flavor.
- Spoon tomato mixture generously onto each bread slice just before serving. Optional: drizzle with balsamic glaze or top with mozzarella or burrata.
- Serve immediately to maintain crispness.
Notes
- Use the freshest tomatoes possible for best flavor and texture.
- Draining tomatoes prevents soggy bread.
- Adjust garlic amount to taste; roasting garlic yields a milder flavor.
- Substitute gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.
- For a creamy variation, add fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese on top.
- Assemble just before serving to keep bread crisp.