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Tomato Bruschetta Recipe Easy 5-Step Fresh Garlic Bread Appetizer

tomato bruschetta recipe - featured image

A fresh and flavorful tomato bruschetta on crispy garlic bread, perfect for quick appetizers or snacks with a balance of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crunchy garlic bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for tomato topping)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 baguette or rustic Italian bread
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated (for garlic bread)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and the balsamic vinegar if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss to mix everything. Let the mixture sit while you prepare the bread.
  2. Slice the Bread (5 minutes): Cut the baguette into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thick slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter (3 minutes): In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version if desired. Spread this garlic butter evenly on one side of each bread slice using a pastry brush or spoon.
  4. Toast the Bread (8-10 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet with the garlic bread slices in the oven. Toast for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the bread is golden and crispy around the edges. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  5. Assemble and Serve (2 minutes): Let the toasted bread cool for a minute. Spoon the fresh tomato mixture generously on top of each slice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use day-old bread for crispier garlic bread. Avoid soggy bread by not overloading tomato topping and draining excess juice if needed. Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil. Toast bread just before serving to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

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