Fresh Bruschetta with Tomato Basil Topping
A quick and easy homemade appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a fresh tomato and basil mixture, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (about 3 pieces per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (Roma or vine-ripened preferred)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Dice about 2 cups (300 grams) of ripe tomatoes and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Chop fresh basil leaves finely—about 1/4 cup (10 grams)—and add them to the tomatoes.
- Add 1 large garlic clove, minced or pressed, to the bowl.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of balsamic vinegar.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all flavors. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes.
- Slice the French baguette or Italian bread into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick pieces and arrange on a baking sheet or grill pan.
- Toast under a broiler or on a grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp but not burnt.
- While the bread is still warm, rub one side of each slice lightly with a halved garlic clove.
- Spoon the tomato basil topping generously onto each toasted bread slice.
- If desired, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy immediately for best texture.
Notes
For best flavor, let the tomato mixture sit for a few minutes before assembling. Toast bread until golden and rub with garlic while warm to prevent sogginess. The tomato topping can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Parmesan cheese is optional and can be substituted with feta or mozzarella.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces of bruschet
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: bruschetta, tomato basil topping, appetizer, easy recipe, homemade, fresh, Italian, quick snack