Description
This Bruschetta recipe is a simple yet vibrant appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh mixture of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. The dish is perfectly seasoned and optionally finished with grated Parmesan cheese, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
Topping
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Bake them for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, balsamic vinegar if using, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to thoroughly mix the ingredients without crushing the tomatoes.
- Assemble Bruschetta: Just before serving, spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted baguette slice to avoid sogginess.
- Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or drizzle additional olive oil over the assembled bruschetta slices if desired, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Serve: Serve the bruschetta immediately as a fresh, flavorful appetizer or party snack to ensure the bread remains crispy and vibrant in taste.
Notes
- To prevent sogginess, add the tomato topping just before serving.
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory touch.
- Can be made vegetarian by omitting cheese or using a vegetarian alternative.
- Store leftover tomato mixture separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If desired, you may also rub the toasted baguette slices with a cut garlic clove for extra garlic flavor before adding the topping.
