Description
This Classic Italian Bruschetta features crispy toasted baguette slices topped with fresh diced tomatoes, aromatic basil, minced garlic, and quality extra virgin olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer for entertaining, a light lunch, or a taste of authentic Italy that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 baguette, sliced into thick pieces
- 2 large fresh ripe tomatoes, choose the ripest ones available
- 2 garlic cloves, one minced for topping, one whole for rubbing bread
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, roughly 10-12 leaves, torn by hand
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling if desired
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings, flaky sea salt, balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, or burrata
Instructions
- Slice the Baguette: Cut the baguette on a slight diagonal into thick slices, roughly half an inch thick.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it with a brush or paper towel. Allow it to heat for about 1 minute until the oil shimmers.
- Toast Until Golden: Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer and toast for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.
- Dice the Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes in half, scoop out excess seeds and juice with a spoon, then dice them into small, uniform pieces. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the minced garlic clove, torn fresh basil, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to the tomatoes. Gently fold everything together until evenly combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the topping and season with additional salt or pepper as needed.
- Rub with Garlic: Take the whole garlic clove and rub it directly across the surface of each warm toasted bread slice.
- Top with Tomato Mixture: Spoon the tomato topping generously onto each slice of bread without over-saturating it.
- Final Touches: Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter and drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil if desired. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Serve Immediately: Bring to the table while the bread is still warm and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes