Bruschetta

Learn to make authentic Italian Bruschetta using ripe tomatoes, basil, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Italian

Keyword bruschetta, bruschetta appetizer, bruschetta bread, bruschetta toast, tomato bruschetta

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Servings servings

Calories 162kcal

Tomato Mixture: Begin by preparing the tomato mixture. It's best to make this ahead and let it sit for one to two hours before assembling the toasts and serving.
This gives time for the flavors to marinate for the best possible taste. In a bowl, gently mix the chopped tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper. Cover and sit aside for one hour or more.
Toast Bread Slices: To make toasts, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Slice your French bread into thin slices and use a brush to coat each piece of bread (front and back) in a layer of olive oil. Toast them in the oven for five minutes.
Assembly: After removing your toasts from the oven, you are ready to assemble your bruschetta. Top each toast with a dollop of tomato mixture. Optionally, you can add a drizzle or olive oil, balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of fresh basil if you like. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip - After chopping your tomatoes, drain the excess tomato juice. This will help you create the most flavorful savory tomato topping and avoid it being watery.
Basil - Basil is a delicate aromatic herb. It should be chopped but not crushed.
Parmesan - Add parmesan to the toasts before toasting for an extra cheesy toast.
Red Onion - You may add finely chopped red onions or shallots to your mixture for more intense flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella - If you want to create a more cheesy variation, you can melt slices of fresh mozzarella onto your toasts OR add finely chopped mozzarella to your tomato mixture.
Drizzles - For a finish, you can add an optional drizzle of more olive oil or a balsamic reduction to the top of your ready to serve toasts.