Tomato Basil Bruschetta on Toasted Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 ripe Roma tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup fresh basil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra-virgin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the baguette into ½-inch pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and immediately rub each piece with the halved garlic clove.
- In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted crostini just before serving to keep them nice and crunchy.
- Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
Notes
Pro Tips for Perfect Bruschetta
Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture. Roma tomatoes work beautifully because they're less watery. Toast the bread well—you want that crispy edge and soft center to hold up under the toppings. Don't skip the garlic rub! It adds a deep flavor without overpowering the fresh ingredients. Wait to assemble. Keep your topping separate until ready to serve to avoid soggy bread. Variations to Try
Feeling creative? Here are some tasty twists on the classic: Add fresh mozzarella or burrata for a creamier bite. Top with chopped avocado for a California-inspired version. Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, tangy flavor. Try roasted cherry tomatoes instead of fresh for extra sweetness. Sprinkle with parmesan or a drizzle of honey balsamic glaze for a gourmet finish.
Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture. Roma tomatoes work beautifully because they're less watery. Toast the bread well—you want that crispy edge and soft center to hold up under the toppings. Don't skip the garlic rub! It adds a deep flavor without overpowering the fresh ingredients. Wait to assemble. Keep your topping separate until ready to serve to avoid soggy bread. Variations to Try
Feeling creative? Here are some tasty twists on the classic: Add fresh mozzarella or burrata for a creamier bite. Top with chopped avocado for a California-inspired version. Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, tangy flavor. Try roasted cherry tomatoes instead of fresh for extra sweetness. Sprinkle with parmesan or a drizzle of honey balsamic glaze for a gourmet finish.