Description
This classic Bruschetta recipe features ripe Roma tomatoes marinated with fresh basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil, served on crispy parmesan-toasted baguette slices. Perfect as a fresh appetizer or party snack, with an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Ingredients
Tomato Topping
- 6 Roma tomatoes (1 1/2 lbs, diced)
- 1/3 cup basil leaves (chopped)
- 5 garlic cloves (divided)
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Bruschetta Toasts
- 1 baguette
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Topping: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes, draining any excess juice. Transfer them to a medium mixing bowl.
- Chop Basil: Stack the basil leaves, roll them into a tight tube, then slice thinly into ribbons (chiffonade). Add these to the tomatoes.
- Prepare Garlic: Finely mince all 5 garlic cloves. Mix 1 teaspoon of minced garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil separately and set aside. Add the remaining garlic to the tomato and basil mixture.
- Season Tomato Mixture: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the tomato bowl. Stir gently to combine and allow to marinate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Baguette Toasts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and position the rack in the center. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Brush and Add Cheese: Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice with the garlic-infused olive oil prepared earlier. Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the slices.
- Bake and Broil Toasts: Bake the prepared toasts at 400°F for 5 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil on high and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato topping over the toasts just before serving. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and optionally balsamic glaze over the assembled bruschetta for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can use a food chopper to dice the tomatoes for quicker prep.
- Allowing the tomato mixture to marinate enhances the flavor by melding the fresh ingredients.
- Watch closely while broiling to prevent the toast from burning.
- For added taste, use fresh parmesan cheese and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a sweet tangy finish that complements the bruschetta beautifully.
- This recipe yields 24 small slices – perfect for parties or gatherings.
