Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

$12 Appetizer

About This Dish

Our tomato bruschetta features perfectly grilled artisan bread topped with a vibrant mixture of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar. This classic Italian appetizer celebrates the simplicity and quality of fresh ingredients.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Serves

4 people

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

4 slices artisan bread (1/2 inch thick)
3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh mozzarella, diced (optional)
Additional basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the tomato mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes to develop flavors.
Grill the bread: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Brush bread slices with remaining olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Add garlic flavor: While the bread is still warm, rub each slice with the garlic cloves. This will infuse the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.
Drain excess liquid: If the tomato mixture has released too much liquid, drain it slightly to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Assemble the bruschetta: Top each grilled bread slice generously with the tomato mixture. If using mozzarella, add it now.
Final touches: Drizzle with additional olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor
Remove tomato seeds if you prefer a less watery mixture
Day-old bread works best as it holds up better to the toppings
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes
Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the bread's crispness
Pair with a light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio