Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a timeless Italian appetizer that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This delightful dish, characterized by its toasted bread topped with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, has become a beloved staple not only in Italian cuisine but also in kitchens around the world. Whether served as a starter at a dinner party, a light snack on a warm afternoon, or a simple yet elegant addition to a picnic spread, bruschetta offers a refreshing taste of the garden that is hard to resist.

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with Fresh Garden Tomato Basil Bruschetta, a vibrant and simple appetizer that celebrates summer's bounty. This delicious dish features crispy toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light snack, bruschetta highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients, offering a tasty way to enjoy the season's harvest. Gather your ingredients and impress your friends with this delightful classic!

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Ingredients

4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt, to taste

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 French baguette or Italian ciabatta, sliced

Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Tomato Mixture:

- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.

- Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Gently toss to combine.

- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Toast the Bread:

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

- Arrange the sliced baguette or ciabatta on a baking sheet. Optionally, for extra flavor, brush each slice lightly with olive oil.

- Toast the bread in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Assemble the Bruschetta:

- Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute.

- Spoon the marinated tomato mixture generously onto each slice of toast.

- If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bruschetta.

Serve:

- Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter and enjoy immediately while the toast is crispy and the topping is fresh.

- Optionally, drizzle a bit more balsamic vinegar over the top before serving for added flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4-6