Description
A classic Italian appetizer featuring fresh, chopped tomatoes mixed with red onion, garlic, and basil, drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, served atop toasted slices of baguette or ciabatta bread. This Tomato Bruschetta is vibrant, easy to prepare, and perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 8 medium tomatoes (about 500g), coarsely chopped and drained
- 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 30ml balsamic vinegar
- 60-80ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread
- 1 baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced
- Extra olive oil for brushing the bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a bowl, combine the coarsely chopped and drained tomatoes with finely chopped red onion, crushed garlic cloves, and chopped fresh basil leaves, mixing all ingredients thoroughly to blend flavors.
- Dress the Mixture: Drizzle the tomato mixture with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, then stir well to ensure even coating of all ingredients.
- Season and Marinate: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Preheat for Toasting: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or alternatively, prepare a grill pan over medium heat if you prefer grilling the bread.
- Prepare Bread Slices: Lightly brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil to ensure a crispy and flavorful toast.
- Toast the Bread: Place the bread slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, or grill them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they achieve a nice char and crispness.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Generously spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice, evenly distributing the topping.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor, optionally garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
Notes
- Drain the tomatoes well before mixing to prevent soggy bread.
- If fresh tomatoes are not in season, plum tomatoes or cherry tomatoes can be used as alternatives.
- For a vegan option, ensure bread does not contain dairy or use gluten-free bread if needed.
- The olive oil quantity may be adjusted based on taste preference.
- Brushing bread with garlic-infused olive oil adds extra flavor.
- Leftover tomato mixture can be refrigerated and used as a salad topping or pasta sauce next day.
