A classic Italian starter, tomato bruschetta is a vibrant dish featuring juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic on perfectly crispy toasted bread. It’s simple, elegant, and ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and highly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or a light snack, it always impresses. The combination of crunchy bread with the tangy, herbaceous tomato topping is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for different tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients
½ small red onion, finely chopped
8 medium tomatoes (about 500g), coarsely chopped and drained
2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
6-8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
30ml balsamic vinegar
60-80ml extra virgin olive oil
1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, stirring to blend the flavors.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat.
Lightly brush the bread slices with olive oil on both sides.
Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes or grill for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden and crisp.
Assemble the Bruschetta:
Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted bread slice.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Variations
Cheesy Twist: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese before serving.
Herbal Infusion: Swap basil for fresh oregano or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Whole Grain Option: Use whole-grain bread for added fiber and nutrients.
Vegan-Friendly: Ensure the bread and toppings are entirely plant-based.
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
I recommend assembling bruschetta just before serving to maintain the crispness of the bread. However, the tomato mixture can be prepared ahead:
Refrigeration: Store the tomato mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating Bread: Re-toast the bread slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to refresh their crispness.
Avoid storing assembled bruschetta as the bread may become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
I don’t recommend canned tomatoes for this recipe as their texture and flavor differ from fresh, ripe tomatoes.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
To keep the bread crisp, serve the tomato mixture on the side and let guests top their bruschetta just before eating.
What type of bread works best for bruschetta?
I prefer a baguette or ciabatta for its sturdy texture and flavor, but any crusty bread will work.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble the bruschetta just before serving.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Diced avocado, olives, or roasted red peppers can add extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Tomato bruschetta is a timeless appetizer that brings vibrant, fresh flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for entertaining or simply indulging in a taste of Italy at home. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy.
📖 Recipe:
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Tomato Bruschetta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tomato bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer bursting with the fresh flavors of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, served on perfectly crispy toasted bread. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for entertaining or enjoying as a light snack.
Ingredients
½ small red onion, finely chopped
8 medium tomatoes (about 500g), coarsely chopped and drained
2–3 garlic cloves, crushed
6–8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
30ml balsamic vinegar
60–80ml extra virgin olive oil
1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
- Combine chopped tomatoes, red onion, garlic, and basil in a bowl.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, stirring well.
- Season with salt and pepper, then let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Toast the Bread:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush bread slices lightly with olive oil on both sides.
- Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes or grill for 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
- Assemble the Bruschetta:
- Generously spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
Assemble bruschetta just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
The tomato mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook (Tomato Mixture), Toasting (Bread)
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 150 kcal per serving
