Description
This classic Italian bruschetta recipe features crispy toasted bread topped with juicy marinated tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a quick, healthy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes (about 1 lb), diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2–3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (for tomato mixture)
- 1 large rustic Italian bread or French baguette (about 12 slices, 12 oz)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
- 1–2 garlic cloves, peeled (for rubbing on toasted bread)
Instructions
- Dice the tomatoes into small 1/2-inch pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped basil to the tomatoes.
- Drizzle with 2–3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
- Sprinkle in sea salt and black pepper (if using). Gently toss to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Let the tomato mixture sit for at least 5 minutes (up to 30) at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
- Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces (about 12 slices). Arrange on a baking sheet.
- Brush both sides of bread slices lightly with olive oil.
- Toast bread under the broiler for 1–2 minutes per side, or grill over medium heat, until golden and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- While bread is still hot, rub one side of each slice with the peeled garlic cloves.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of bread just before serving. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with extra basil if desired.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
For best results, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and good-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Day-old bread works better than fresh for toasting. Let the tomato mixture marinate for extra flavor, and always assemble bruschetta just before serving to prevent sogginess. For gluten-free, use a GF baguette. To make vegan, simply use vegan bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: bruschetta, Italian appetizer, tomato basil, easy appetizer, vegetarian, summer recipe, party food, healthy snack