Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe

Oh my gosh, I just whipped up the most delightful tomato basil bruschetta, and it’s seriously a flavor explosion on toasted baguette slices! The combo of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar totally transports me to a cozy Italian café right at my dining table. 🍅🥖

The straightforwardness and freshness of Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta appeal to me. This tasty starter melds juicy, ripe tomatoes with the sweet, intoxicating smell of fresh basil; that’s not even mentioning the minced garlic, which really gives a kick to the bruschetta.

Somehow, all these very different flavors come together under the watchful eye of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. That’s right: Unlike most bruschetta recipes, this one leaves out the anchovies and then makes up for it with flavor-packed toppings.

Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C; adds freshness and natural sweetness.
• Fresh Basil: Offers aromatic flavor; contains antioxidants and essential oils.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent kick; known for anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Provides a tangy and sweet balance; supports digestion.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Healthy monounsaturated fats; promotes heart health.

Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Baguette, sliced and toasted
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe

1. Start with the tomatoes. Chop them into small, even pieces. This will allow them to lie evenly on the bruschetta, and it will also allow the juices and flavors to combine more thoroughly. If you are using larger tomatoes (or any type of tomato that has a lot of flesh), remove the core and some of the inner pulp, or else you will end up with a topping that is mostly juice.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped fresh basil leaves with the diced tomatoes.

3. Add the tomato and basil mixture to the minced garlic, and stir it all together.

4. Trickle the balsamic vinegar over the amalgamation and then follow with the extra-virgin olive oil.

5. Add sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture so that everything is combined and the flavors are shared.

6. Allow the tomato mixture to stand for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This gives the flavors a chance to blend and the juices to combine.

7. As the tomato blend pauses, cut your baguette into slices that are 1/2 inch thick.

8. Preheat an oven to 400°F (200°C). Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 7-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and lightly golden.

9. After toasting, take the baguette slices from the oven and allow them to cool for a few moments.

10. Spoon a generous amount of the tomato basil mixture onto each slice of the toasted baguette. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Sharp knife
3. Medium bowl
4. Spoon or spatula
5. Measuring spoons
6. Baking sheet
7. Oven
8. Cooling rack (optional)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?A: The finest flavor and texture come from fresh tomatoes, but you can use canned tomatoes if they’re top-notch and you’re in a hurry.
• Q: How do I prevent my bruschetta from getting soggy?A: Make sure the baguette slices are properly toasted before you put on the topping, and serve the bruschetta as soon as you finish putting it together.
• Q: Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?A: Certainly, the tomato mixture can be prepped a few hours ahead of time and kept in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just be sure to drain any extra liquid before spooning it onto the bread. And we served it on toasted slices of baguette.

  Ingredients:
  – 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes (or small tomatoes cut into wedges)
  – 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  – 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  – Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

• Q: What can I use as a substitute for balsamic vinegar?A: You can substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for it, but they’ll taste a little different.
• Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?A: Yes, gluten-free baguette or bread can be used as a substitute.
• Q: Can I add other ingredients to the bruschetta topping?A: Certainly, you can mix in diced red onion, mozzarella cheese, or olives for a more pronounced flavor profile.

Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Utilize 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of fresh basil leaves.
Use apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar for a less intense flavor.
Substitute 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for balsamic vinegar to create a citrusy marinade.
If you cannot get hold of extra-virgin olive oil, use avocado oil instead.
Use ciabatta or sourdough bread instead of a baguette. Slice the bread and toast it.

Pro Tips

1. Tomato Selection: Use a mix of heirloom and cherry tomatoes for added flavor complexity and visual appeal. Heirloom varieties often have a richer taste, while cherry tomatoes add a nice sweetness.