Name: Authentic Italian Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 vine ripened tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Pinch of salt; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (from the 3 tablespoons total); 1 Italian style baguette, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices; 1 whole garlic clove; 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (remaining from total 3 tablespoons)

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Introduction

Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that perfectly combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and toasted bread. This simple yet flavorful dish captures the essence of summer and makes an ideal appetizer or snack.

The image shows several pieces of toasted bread slices arranged closely on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. Each slice has two layers: the bottom layer is a golden brown toasted bread with visible grill marks and a crispy texture, and the top layer is a fresh mixture of diced red tomatoes and small chopped green basil leaves, adding a fresh color contrast. Around the board, there are scattered fresh green basil leaves and a bulb of garlic on the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 vine ripened tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 Italian style baguette, sliced
1 whole garlic clove

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt. Add 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar. Mix gently and chill the mixture in the refrigerator while preparing the bread.
Step 2: Slice the baguette into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces. Cut off the end of the garlic clove and rub it on both sides of each bread slice to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
Step 3: Drizzle or brush both sides of the bread slices with the remaining olive oil.
Step 4: Toast the bread slices on a grill or in a hot skillet until both sides are golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Remove the toasted bread from heat and immediately spoon the chilled tomato mixture generously on top. Serve right away for the best contrast between warm toast and cool topping.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly harvested tomatoes during peak season for the best flavor and juiciness.
Add a splash of lemon juice to the tomato mixture for a bright, zesty twist.
For a cheesy option, sprinkle shaved Parmesan or fresh mozzarella on top before serving.
If fresh basil isn’t available, substitute with fresh parsley or oregano for a different herbal note.

Storage

Bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh as the bread may become soggy if stored. If you have leftovers, keep the tomato mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toast fresh bread before serving again to maintain crispness.

How to Serve

The image shows eight pieces of toasted small bread slices placed on a wooden board. Each toasted slice is topped with a mix of finely chopped bright red tomatoes and fresh green basil leaves, creating a colorful contrast. The bread has a golden-brown crust with toasted marks, while the tomato topping looks juicy and fresh. A long, golden baguette is placed diagonally at the top of the board, and a blue cloth is partly visible beside it. Around the board, there are whole garlic bulbs, fresh green basil leaves, and some red tomatoes, all set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the tomato topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, but avoid assembling the bruschetta until just before serving to keep the bread crisp.

What type of bread works best for bruschetta?

An Italian baguette or any crusty country-style bread works well. The key is to have bread that toasts nicely and holds up to the juicy tomato topping without becoming too soggy.