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Delicious tomato bruschetta topped with fresh basil on toasted bread.

Tomato Bruschetta

A simple, vibrant, and flavorful Tomato Bruschetta made with fresh Roma tomatoes, aromatic basil, and crunchy baguette slices, perfect for gatherings or as a delightful snack.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Tomato Bruschetta Topping
  • 6 Roma Tomatoes, diced Delicately sweet and juicy; substitute with other ripe tomatoes if needed.
  • 1/3 cup Basil Leaves, chopped Fresh and aromatic; dried basil can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
  • 5 cloves Garlic, divided Adds depth and flavor; try roasted garlic for a milder taste.
  • 1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Provides acidity; apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Rich in flavor; feel free to use a good quality infused oil for extra taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Sea Salt Enhances flavor; table salt will do; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked is preferable; use white pepper if desired.
  • 1 Baguette The perfect canvas; gluten-free bread can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/3 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty flavor; nutritional yeast works for a vegan option.
  • 1 Balsamic Glaze (optional) Adds a sweet finish; store-bought is fine, or make your own.

Method
 

Preparation of Tomato Topping
  1. Core and dice your Roma tomatoes, draining excess juice to keep the topping vibrant.
  2. In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced tomatoes with chopped basil.
  3. Finely mince 5 garlic cloves. Mix 1 teaspoon minced garlic with 3 tablespoons olive oil and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining minced garlic to the tomatoes.
  5. Incorporate 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir gently to combine, allowing the mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Making the Bruschetta Toasts
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Cut the baguette into 1/2 inch thick diagonal slices and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Brush both sides with the garlic-infused olive oil and sprinkle freshly shredded parmesan cheese generously on top.
  4. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Serving
  1. Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a beautiful platter.
  2. Serve the tomato topping in a separate bowl, allowing guests to spoon it over the toasts.
  3. For an added touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Notes

Avoid using underripe tomatoes to prevent blandness. Allow the flavors to meld by not skipping the marination step. Keep an eye on the bread while broiling to prevent burning.