Save Crispy baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil served in an elegant diagonal line perfect for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
This appetizer was the star of our last gathering, everyone enjoyed its freshness and crunch.
Ingredients
- French baguette: sliced diagonally into 8 pieces about 1/2-inch thick
- Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp for toasts plus 1 tbsp for topping
- Tomatoes: 2 medium ripe diced
- Garlic: 1 small clove minced plus 1 small clove peeled for rubbing toast
- Basil leaves: 2 tbsp fresh finely chopped plus extra for garnish
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Balsamic glaze: optional for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange Toasts:
- Place baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
- Bake Toasts:
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway until golden and crisp.
- Prepare Topping:
- Combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and set aside.
- Rub Toasts:
- Remove toasts from oven and while still warm, rub one side with peeled garlic clove.
- Assemble:
- Spoon tomato mixture onto each toast and arrange on a platter in a diagonal line.
- Garnish:
- Add extra basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
Save My family loves gathering around the table sharing these fresh bruschetta toasts, creating warm memories with every bite.
Notes
For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. Use heirloom or cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, small mixing bowl, bread knife, pastry brush, and spoon are needed to prepare this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat gluten and may contain sulfites if using balsamic glaze. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save This bruschetta recipe offers a delightful balance of crisp bread and fresh toppings, perfect as a refreshing appetizer.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
A French baguette sliced diagonally provides the ideal texture, crisping nicely while maintaining a soft interior.
- → How can I make the toasts extra flavorful?
Rubbing warm toasts with peeled garlic cloves infuses subtle aroma before adding the tomato topping.
- → Can I prepare the tomato topping in advance?
Yes, preparing the tomato, basil, and garlic mixture ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully, but assemble just before serving.
- → What is the purpose of arranging the toasts diagonally?
The diagonal presentation adds an elegant aesthetic, making it visually appealing for gatherings.
- → Are there optional garnishes to enhance flavor?
Fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze provide aromatic freshness and a tangy contrast.