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Fresh Bruschetta Recipe Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Appetizer

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This vibrant bruschetta features juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy toasted bread, making it a quick and easy Italian appetizer perfect for gatherings, snacks, or summer parties. Simple ingredients and classic techniques deliver fresh flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium ripe tomatoes (about 1.5 cups diced)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced (for tomato mixture)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • 1 loaf baguette or rustic Italian bread (about 10 oz), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing bread)
  • 1 large whole garlic clove (for rubbing on toasted bread)

Instructions

  1. Dice the tomatoes into small pieces and place in a medium mixing bowl. If tomatoes are very juicy, scoop out some seeds and liquid before dicing.
  2. Add minced garlic, chopped basil, 2 tablespoons olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and let the tomato mixture marinate at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to blend and juices to develop.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice baguette into 1/2-inch pieces (about 12-16 slices). Lay slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  5. Bake bread slices for 6-8 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp but not hard.
  6. While bread is hot, peel the large garlic clove and rub the cut side over one side of each toast.
  7. Stir the tomato mixture and spoon generously onto each slice of bread, letting some juices drip onto the bread.
  8. Serve immediately while bread is warm and crunchy. Optionally, drizzle with more olive oil or sprinkle with flaky salt.

Notes

For best flavor, use the freshest tomatoes and basil available. Let the tomato mixture marinate for at least 10 minutes. Rub garlic on bread while hot for maximum flavor. Assemble bruschetta just before serving to keep bread crisp. For gluten-free or vegan options, use gluten-free bread and skip cheese add-ons. Tomato topping can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato basil appetizer, Italian starter, easy bruschetta, summer appetizer, vegetarian, party food, fresh tomatoes, basil, baguette, olive oil

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/fresh-bruschetta-recipe-easy-homemade-tomato-basil-appetizer/