Description
This classic bruschetta recipe features a flavorful tomato topping made with ripe Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil, served atop toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic-infused olive oil and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, this dish combines fresh, vibrant flavors with a crisp and cheesy toast base.
Ingredients
Tomato Bruschetta 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 Bruschetta Topping: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes, draining any excess juice, and place them in a medium bowl.
- Chop Basil: Stack the basil leaves, roll them into a tight tube, and thinly slice into ribbons; add to the tomato bowl.
- Minced Garlic Preparation: Finely mince all 5 garlic cloves. Mix 1 teaspoon of minced garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and set aside. Add the remaining minced garlic to the tomato mixture.
- Season the Tomato Mixture: Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the tomato bowl. Gently stir to combine. Set aside to marinate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Toasts: Preheat the oven to 400°F and place a rack in the center. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush and Add Cheese: Brush both sides of each toast with the garlic-infused olive oil prepared earlier. Sprinkle the tops evenly with shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the toasts at 400°F for 5 minutes. Then switch to broil on high heat for 1 to 2 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a platter. Spoon the marinated tomato mixture over the toasts. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and optionally with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm Roma tomatoes for best texture and flavor.
- Allowing the tomato mixture to marinate improves flavor intensity.
- Watch the toasts carefully during broiling to prevent burning.
- Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a sweet acidity to the bruschetta.
- For a vegetarian dish, ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly or omit it.
