I love making Bruschetta when I want a simple yet flavorful appetizer that feels fresh and vibrant. I top crisp toasted bread with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil to create a dish that highlights simple ingredients at their best.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how this recipe relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver bold flavor. The contrast between crunchy bread and juicy tomato topping makes every bite satisfying.
I also enjoy how quickly it comes together. I can prepare it in minutes, making it perfect for entertaining, gatherings, or a light snack when I want something refreshing and easy.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 French baguette, sliced
3 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). I arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush them with olive oil.
I toast the bread in the oven for about 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp. I sometimes rub the warm bread lightly with a cut clove of garlic for extra flavor.
In a bowl, I combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar if using, salt, and black pepper. I gently stir everything together and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Just before serving, I spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices.
I serve immediately so the bread stays crisp.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 8–10 servings from one baguette, depending on slice size.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add diced mozzarella for a caprese-style topping. When I want extra depth, I drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished bruschetta.
For a different twist, I top the bread with roasted tomatoes instead of fresh ones. If I prefer more texture, I add finely diced red onion to the tomato mixture.
storage/reheating
I store the tomato mixture separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
I keep the toasted bread in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 1 day. I assemble just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I make bruschetta ahead of time?
I prepare the tomato mixture a few hours in advance, but I assemble it on the bread right before serving.
What type of tomatoes work best?
I prefer ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes because they are flavorful and less watery.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
I toast it well and only add the topping just before serving.
Can I grill the bread instead of baking it?
I often grill the bread for a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
Is bruschetta served hot or cold?
I serve it with warm toasted bread and room-temperature tomato topping for the best balance.
Conclusion
I love how Bruschetta transforms a handful of fresh ingredients into a bright and flavorful appetizer. The crisp bread and juicy tomato topping create a perfect balance of texture and taste. Whenever I serve it, it brings a simple yet elegant touch to the table.
Print
Bruschetta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Italian appetizer featuring crisp toasted baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette, sliced
- 3 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Optionally rub warm toasted bread with a cut clove of garlic for extra flavor.
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Gently stir and let sit for a few minutes to blend flavors.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread just before serving.
- Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp.
Notes
- Use ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes for best flavor and less moisture.
- Add diced mozzarella for a caprese-style variation.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top for extra depth.
- Grill the bread instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
- Store tomato mixture separately to prevent soggy bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
