Description
A classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh, flavorful mixture of ripe tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Perfect for a light snack or party starter, this Tomato Bruschetta is easy to prepare and highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- 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
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread
- 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced
- Extra olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a bowl, combine the coarsely chopped and drained tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, crushed garlic cloves, and finely chopped fresh basil leaves. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Add Vinegar and Olive Oil: Drizzle the tomato mixture with 30ml of balsamic vinegar and 60-80ml of extra virgin olive oil. Stir well to incorporate the dressing evenly throughout the mixture.
- Season and Rest: Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat for Toasting: While the tomato mixture is resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or alternatively, heat a grill pan over medium heat for toasting the bread slices.
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with extra olive oil, ensuring a thin, even coating to promote crispiness and prevent drying out during toasting.
- Toast the Bread: Place the bread slices in the oven and toast for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp. If using a grill pan, grill each side of the bread slices for 1-2 minutes until nicely browned.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Generously spoon the prepared tomato mixture onto the hot toasted bread slices, ensuring a good balance of tomato and onion in each serving.
- Serve: Serve the bruschetta immediately for the best texture and flavor, optionally garnished with additional fresh basil leaves for color and aroma.
Notes
- Drain the tomatoes well after chopping to prevent soggy bread.
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil and balsamic vinegar according to your taste preference.
- Toast the bread just before assembling to keep it crisp.
- Can be made ahead by preparing the tomato mixture in advance, but toast the bread fresh.
- For a variation, add a small amount of finely chopped fresh oregano or parsley to the tomato mixture.
