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Fresh Bruschetta Recipe – Best Tomato Basil Appetizer for Summer

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This fresh bruschetta recipe features juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy garlic-rubbed toast for the ultimate summer appetizer. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a simple snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced small (Roma, heirloom, or cherry tomatoes)
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 rustic baguette or Italian loaf (about 10–12 slices, 1/2-inch thick; ciabatta works too)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled (for rubbing toast)
  • Optional: Extra basil leaves, flaky sea salt, or balsamic glaze for serving

Instructions

  1. Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces and place in a small mixing bowl. If tomatoes are very juicy, scoop out some seeds and liquid.
  2. Stack and roll basil leaves, then slice into thin ribbons. Add basil to tomatoes.
  3. Drizzle in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Let the tomato mixture marinate at room temperature for about 10 minutes, stirring once or twice.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces (10-12 slices). Arrange on a baking sheet.
  6. Brush each bread slice with olive oil. Toast in oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
  7. Rub the cut side of a peeled garlic clove over each hot toast slice.
  8. Spoon tomato-basil mixture onto each slice of garlic toast, letting excess juice drip off.
  9. Arrange bruschetta on a serving platter. Sprinkle with extra basil or flaky salt, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
  10. Serve immediately while bread is warm and crisp.

Notes

For best results, use peak-season tomatoes and fresh basil. Toast bread just before serving to keep it crisp. If making ahead, keep tomato topping and bread separate until ready to assemble. For gluten-free, use GF bread. Add cheese or extra herbs for variation. Strain tomato mixture if watery before topping bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato basil, summer appetizer, Italian, easy, vegan, vegetarian, party food, picnic, garlic toast

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-bruschetta-recipe-best-tomato-basil-appetizer-for-summer/