Easy Bruschetta
Easy Bruschetta is a fresh, vibrant, and fuss-free appetizer perfect for any occasion. Crisp toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, minced garlic, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil creates an unforgettable bite. This recipe is quick to prepare, showcases fresh ingredients, and offers versatile variations to suit all tastes, making it ideal for parties, snacks, or light meals.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 bruschetta pieces
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Tomatoes – 2 cups, finely diced (about 4 medium ripe tomatoes)
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh Basil – 1/4 cup, torn leaves
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling
- Balsamic Vinegar (optional) – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground
Bread
- Crusty Bread or Baguette – 1 loaf, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces, toasted until golden and crispy
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the crusty bread or baguette into approximately half-inch thick slices. Toast the slices in the oven or on a grill pan at high heat until they are golden brown and crispy, providing a sturdy and crunchy base.
- Make the Tomato Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and torn fresh basil leaves. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and add a splash of balsamic vinegar if desired. Gently mix to combine all ingredients without mashing the tomatoes.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Spoon the tomato mixture generously over each toasted bread slice, ensuring an even distribution that covers the bread fully for vibrant flavor in every bite.
- Garnish and Serve: Enhance the presentation and flavor by adding a few whole basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese if preferred. Serve immediately to maintain the perfect balance between the crisp bread and fresh topping.
Notes
- Bread Choice Matters: Use sturdy, rustic bread like ciabatta or baguette to avoid sogginess.
- Let Tomatoes Drain: After dicing, letting tomatoes sit in a sieve for a few minutes removes excess moisture for crisper toppings.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil is essential for best flavor; avoid dried basil.
- Toast Bread Hot and Fast: High heat produces optimal crunch without drying the bread too much.
- Assemble Just Before Serving: To maintain crispness, add the tomato topping right before eating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bruschetta, appetizer, Italian, fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, easy bruschetta, party appetizer, vegan, healthy snack