Tomato Basil Bruschetta (Printable Version)

Marinated tomatoes and basil top crisp toasted bread for a classic savory Italian starter.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Tomato Topping

01 - 4 ripe medium tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
02 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Bread

07 - 1 crusty baguette, cut into 8 diagonal slices
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Garlic

09 - 2 large garlic cloves, peeled

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.
02 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
03 - Toast baguette slices in the oven for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
04 - Remove toasted bread from the oven. While still warm, rub one side of each slice with the cut side of a garlic clove.
05 - Spoon the marinated tomato mixture generously onto each slice just before serving.
06 - Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses simple everyday ingredients
  • Ready in under half an hour
  • Bursting with fresh tangy and herbaceous flavors
  • Unbelievably easy yet always a crowd pleaser
  • Makes any meal feel like an occasion
02 -
  • Fresh tomatoes and basil are the stars so use the best you can find.
  • Great as a vegetarian appetizer or party snack.
  • Low in calories and full of antioxidants.
03 -
  • Always marinate the tomatoes so the flavors bloom and meld.
  • Use a sharp serrated knife to slice bread cleanly without crushing it.
  • Rub garlic on the warm toast generously for that essential Italian flavor.
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