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Fresh Bruschetta Recipe

Jessica T. Brown
A simple, vibrant bruschetta bursting with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
Toasted bread topped with this flavorful mix makes a light, healthy appetizer or snack that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetiser, Lunch
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 26 small slices

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 small chopping knife
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 tray for broiling
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 6 –7 large beefsteak or ripe plum tomatoes diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ small red onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Olive oil spray as needed
  • 8 fresh basil leaves chopped
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 16 oz baguette or French bread
  • 2 whole garlic cloves peeled (for rubbing on toast)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Start by dicing 6–7 large beefsteak or ripe plum tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
    Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely and add to the tomatoes, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed.
    Chop ¼ of a small red onion into tiny pieces and mix it in as well.
    Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar over the mixture.
    Add a pinch of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper to taste, and 8 chopped fresh basil leaves.
    Gently stir all ingredients together, coating the tomatoes evenly with the seasoning.
    Let this mixture rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Slice the Bread: Take a 16-ounce baguette or French bread and place it on a cutting board.
    Using a sharp knife, cut the bread into slices approximately ½ inch thick. Make sure the slices are uniform so they toast evenly.
    If your bread is very long, you may need to trim the ends slightly.
  • Prepare the Toasting Tray: Lay the bread slices flat on a baking tray. Lightly spray each slice with olive oil.
    This will help the bread crisp up beautifully under the broiler and develop a golden-brown texture.
    Make sure each slice gets a thin, even coating of oil.
  • Toast the Bread: Place the tray under the broiler on medium-high heat.
    Watch the bread closely as it toasts, turning the tray if necessary to ensure even browning.
    Toast until the slices are golden brown and slightly crisp but not burned, which usually takes about 2–4 minutes per side depending on your broiler.
    Timing is key here—stay attentive to avoid over-toasting.
  • Rub Bread with Garlic: As soon as the bread comes out of the broiler, take 2 whole peeled garlic cloves and gently rub one side of each slice with the garlic.
    The heat from the toasted bread will release the garlic’s natural oils, infusing each slice with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
  • Assemble the Bruschetta: Place the toasted, garlic-rubbed bread slices on a serving platter.
    Using a spoon, generously top each slice with the prepared tomato mixture.
    Spread it evenly, making sure each slice has a good balance of tomatoes, onions, basil, and a touch of olive oil and balsamic.
  • Serve Immediately or Keep Fresh: Serve the bruschetta immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast of crisp bread and juicy, flavorful tomatoes.
    If you prefer, you can serve the tomato mixture on the side, allowing guests to add it to the bread themselves—this helps prevent soggy slices.
  • Optional Garnish and Tips: For added flavor, you can drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil or balsamic over the assembled bruschetta just before serving.
    Fresh basil leaves can also be added as a garnish for extra visual appeal and aroma.
    Remember, this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as the bread can soften over time if left to sit with the tomato mixture.

Notes

  • Makes approximately 26 small slices, perfect for sharing or entertaining.
  • For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes—they should be firm but juicy.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste; the balsamic adds sweetness, so balance accordingly.
  • Use a sharp knife to cut the bread to prevent crushing the slices.
  • Serve immediately after assembling to maintain crispiness; alternatively, keep tomato mixture separate to avoid soggy bread.
  • Can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
  • Olive oil spray helps achieve even toasting, but brushing with a little extra virgin olive oil also works.