Name: Tomato and Basil Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4-5 medium, ripe, organic tomatoes; 1 clove of garlic; 12 fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Black pepper to taste; 4 slices of fresh rustic bread; Extra-virgin olive oil (about 8 tablespoons, for bread dressing, 2 tablespoons per slice); Salt and black pepper to taste

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Introduction

Tomato and Basil Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors. Crisp toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic makes this a perfect starter or light snack.

A close-up view of a bruschetta showing one piece of toasted bread with a dark golden brown crust on the edges and a slightly charred texture under the toppings. The first layer is fresh green basil leaves spread over the bread, and on top is a chunky tomato mix made of red diced tomatoes with bits of lighter red and slightly shiny from juice, creating a moist texture. The dish is placed on crumpled light brown paper with a small piece of tomato visible near the bottom right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 slices of fresh rustic bread
4-5 medium, ripe, organic tomatoes
1 clove of garlic
12 fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (for tomato mixture)
½ teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
Extra-virgin olive oil (for bread dressing)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash tomatoes and cut an “x” on the bottom of each. Blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into cold ice water. Peel off the skins, cut tomatoes into quarters, remove seeds, and dice into uniform half-inch pieces.
Step 2: Place diced tomatoes in a bowl. Add extra-virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and torn basil leaves. Mix gently and let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3: Slice the bread diagonally into four pieces.
Step 4: Pour about 2 tablespoons of olive oil per bread slice into a shallow dish. Season with salt and pepper and mix.
Step 5: Dip one side of each bread slice into the oil mixture, ensuring the surface is evenly coated.
Step 6: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over high heat. Place the seasoned side of the bread down and press lightly to toast evenly until golden and crispy. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving plate.
Step 7: Peel the garlic clove and rub it onto the warm toasted side of the bread to infuse garlic flavor.
Step 8: Just before serving, spoon the tomato and basil mixture onto each bread slice. Optionally, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough for the best texture and flavor.
For a sweeter touch, add a small drizzle of balsamic glaze over the assembled bruschetta.
If fresh basil isn’t available, substitute with fresh oregano or parsley.
Try adding finely chopped red onion or a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella for variation.

Storage

Tomato and Basil Bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the tomato mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep toasted bread separate and re-toast briefly before assembling to maintain crispiness. Avoid storing assembled bruschetta to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows four pieces of toasted bread with a golden-brown crust and some charred edges, each topped with a layer of fresh diced red tomatoes mixed with small bits of herbs and a few whole green basil leaves. The bread is arranged closely on crinkled brown parchment paper, and the juicy, bright red tomato topping looks fresh and slightly wet, with visible black pepper sprinkled on top. The overall look is colorful and fresh with contrasting textures between the crunchy bread and soft tomato mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes offer the best flavor and texture for bruschetta, but in a pinch, high-quality canned diced tomatoes can work. Drain well and season to taste.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Toast the bread thoroughly and apply oil only on one side. Add the tomato topping just before serving to keep the bread crisp.