Description
Classic Bruschetta is a simple and delicious Italian appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and basil. Perfect as a starter or light snack, this recipe combines crisp toasted bread with savory and tangy tomato topping for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Topping
- 1 Italian baguette loaf (sliced) or ciabatta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (2 finely minced, 1 whole)
- 6 sliced tomatoes (about 3 pounds, seeded and diced)
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Slice the bread: Cut the Italian baguette or ciabatta into even slices, making sure they are not too thick to avoid falling apart, but thick enough to hold the toppings.
- Prepare for toasting: Arrange the bread slices evenly on the prepared baking pan and brush each slice with olive oil for flavor and crispiness.
- Bake the bread: Place the pan in the oven and bake the bread slices for 10-12 minutes, or until they are nicely toasted and golden brown.
- Infuse garlic flavor: Once toasted, rub the whole garlic clove gently over each bread slice to add a subtle, fragrant garlic flavor.
- Mix the tomato topping: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the bruschetta: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice, then sprinkle with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe, fresh tomatoes to maximize flavor.
- You can toast the bread slices longer for extra crispiness but avoid burning.
- The garlic rubbing step is optional but adds great aroma and taste.
- Adjust salt and vinegar quantities to your taste preference.
- Serve as an appetizer or party finger food.
