Description
A classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta is a flavorful dish featuring toasted bread topped with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This easy recipe is perfect for entertaining or as a light starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread:
- 1 baguette or crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Tomato Mixture:
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Prepare the tomato mixture: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble: Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted bread slice. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, grill the bread instead of toasting in the oven.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
