Description
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic, drizzled with olive oil for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. This easy and versatile recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or a quick snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread:
- 1 baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces (about 12 slices)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 garlic clove, halved (for rubbing on bread)
For the Topping:
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a grill.
- Slice the bread into ½-inch thick pieces.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and rub with garlic for extra flavor.
- Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes or grill until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Mix gently and let sit for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto toasted bread slices.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil or shaved Parmesan.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use a baguette or sourdough.
- Add toppings like sautéed mushrooms, avocado, or prosciutto for variations.
- Use high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- For added richness, top with mozzarella, ricotta, or Parmesan.
- Keep bread and topping separate until serving to prevent sogginess
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Toasting or Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bruschetta slice
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~150mg
- Fat: ~7g
- Saturated Fat: ~1g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~12g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg