Fresh Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Basil
A quick and easy Italian appetizer featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and toasted crusty bread, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes, diced
- A generous handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced about ½ inch thick
- Optional: Parmesan cheese shavings or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes. Dice them into small, even pieces (about ½ inch). Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Peel and finely mince 2 cloves of garlic or use a garlic press. Add to the tomatoes.
- Tear or roughly chop fresh basil leaves and add them to the tomato and garlic mixture.
- Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar (if using), a pinch of sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Slice the baguette or rustic bread about ½ inch thick. Toast until golden and crispy on both sides—about 2-3 minutes per side using a grill pan or under the broiler.
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted slice. Add Parmesan shavings or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately to keep the bread crisp and the topping fresh.
Notes
If tomatoes seem watery, drain excess liquid before mixing to avoid soggy bread. Assemble bruschetta just before serving to keep bread crisp. The tomato mixture can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated. For gluten-free, substitute bread with gluten-free baguette or crackers. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 slices per s
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2.5
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: bruschetta, tomatoes, basil, Italian appetizer, easy recipe, fresh, quick snack