The Best Ever Tomato Basil Bruschetta – Fresh & Flavorful!

Discover the best-ever tomato basil bruschetta, a classic Italian appetizer that captures summer's essence with fresh ingredients. This simple yet stunning dish features crusty toasted baguette topped with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for dinner parties, barbecues, or cozy nights in, this bruschetta is easy to make and offers a burst of vibrant flavors. Learn how to create this delightful starter with our step-by-step guide!

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Ingredients

6 ripe tomatoes, finely diced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 French or Italian baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss the mixture, ensuring everything is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.

Toast the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. You can also grill the bread for a smoky flavor!

Assemble the Bruschetta: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven, and if you choose, sprinkle each piece with parmesan cheese while they are still warm. Using a spoon, generously top each slice with the prepared tomato-basil mixture.

Serve: Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6-8 servings