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Authentic Italian Bruschetta Recipe

4.4 from 123 reviews

Authentic Italian Bruschetta is a classic appetizer featuring toasted Italian baguette slices topped with a fresh mixture of diced vine-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, oregano, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, all brought together with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of garlic. This simple yet flavorful dish celebrates traditional Italian flavors and is perfect for serving at gatherings or as a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Topping

  • 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)

Bread and Garlic

  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Combine the diced tomatoes with chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Mix gently to combine and then refrigerate to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the Italian baguette into pieces about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Take the whole garlic clove, slice off the end, and rub the cut side onto both sides of each bread slice to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
  3. Toast the Bread: Drizzle the sliced bread on both sides with the remaining olive oil or brush it on evenly. Toast the bread slices either on a grill or in a hot skillet until they develop a golden brown crust on both sides.
  4. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the chilled tomato mixture generously over the hot toasted bread slices. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm crispy bread with fresh, vibrant tomato topping.

Notes

  • For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the bread over charcoal or wood fire.
  • You can substitute the dried oregano with fresh oregano if available for a brighter herb taste.
  • If preferred, rub the grilled bread with raw garlic clove again after toasting for a stronger garlic flavor.
  • Serve immediately after topping to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Keywords: bruschetta, italian appetizer, tomato bruschetta, grilled bread, fresh basil, easy italian recipes, garlic bread, summer appetizer