Name: Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 baguette or crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds; 4 ripe tomatoes, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 garlic clove, whole (for rubbing); 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Olive oil spray or brush for toasting

Crispy toasted bread slices topped with a fresh medley of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil—this classic Italian appetizer is light, vibrant, and full of Mediterranean flavor. I love making this for gatherings or as a quick snack when I crave something refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 baguette or crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds

4 ripe tomatoes, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 garlic clove, whole (for rubbing)

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray or brush for toasting

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

I arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil.

Then I toast them in the oven for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

While the bread toasts, I combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar (if using) in a bowl. I season it with salt and pepper and let it sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Once the bread is toasted, I gently rub one side of each slice with the whole garlic clove for extra aroma and taste.

I spoon the tomato mixture generously over each toast and serve immediately while still warm and crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. The prep time is 10 minutes, the cooking time is 10 minutes, and the total time is around 20 minutes. Each serving has approximately 110 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness. For a richer twist, I sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top. If I want a bit of heat, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. To make it gluten-free, I use gluten-free baguette slices. Roasted cherry tomatoes also make a lovely variation when I want a deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover tomato mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I always keep the bread and tomato topping separate to avoid sogginess. When I’m ready to serve again, I re-toast the bread in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispness, then add the topping just before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

I always spoon the tomato topping on right before serving and keep the bread and topping separate until then.

Can I make the topping ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the tomato mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. It actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavors develop more deeply.

What kind of bread works best for bruschetta?

I prefer a crusty baguette or rustic Italian bread because it holds up well under the juicy topping and stays crunchy.

Can I grill the bread instead of baking it?

Absolutely. I sometimes grill the bread for extra smoky flavor—it adds a wonderful depth to the bruschetta.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Tomato Basil Bruschetta is naturally vegan since it uses only plant-based ingredients like tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil.

Conclusion

I find Tomato Basil Bruschetta to be one of those timeless recipes that never fails to impress. It’s quick, colorful, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether I serve it as an appetizer, snack, or part of a light meal, it always brings a touch of Italian charm to my table.

Recipe:

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Crispy toasted bread slices topped with a vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This classic Italian bruschetta is light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.