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Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Parmesan Recipe

4.7 from 126 reviews

This classic Bruschetta recipe features a vibrant tomato and basil topping served on garlic-infused toasted baguette slices, enhanced with parmesan cheese and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Perfect as an appetizer or light snack, it combines fresh, simple ingredients with a deliciously crispy, golden toast base.

Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Bruschetta Topping

  • 6 Roma tomatoes (1 1/2 lbs, diced)
  • 1/3 cup basil leaves (chopped)
  • 5 garlic cloves (divided)
  • 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Balsamic glaze (optional)

Bruschetta Toasts

  • 1 baguette
  • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Make the Tomato Bruschetta Topping: Core and dice the tomatoes, draining any excess juice. Place them in a medium bowl. Stack basil leaves, roll into a tube, and thinly slice into ribbons using a sharp knife; add to the tomatoes. Finely mince 5 garlic cloves, then mix 1 teaspoon of the minced garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and set aside. Add the remaining minced garlic to the tomato mixture.
  2. Season the Topping: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the tomato and basil mixture. Stir gently to combine and allow the mixture to marinate for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  3. Prepare the Bruschetta Toasts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the rack in the center. Cut the baguette into 1/2 inch thick slices diagonally. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides of the toasts generously with the garlic-infused olive oil prepared earlier.
  4. Bake and Broil the Toasts: Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top of each toast slice. Bake in the oven at 400°F for 5 minutes. Then switch to the broil setting and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Serve: Place the toasted baguette slices on a serving platter. Spoon the marinated tomato topping over or alongside the toasts. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use ripe Roma tomatoes and fresh basil.
  • Drain excess tomato juice well to prevent soggy toasts.
  • Adjust garlic quantity based on your taste preference.
  • Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal but is optional.
  • Serve immediately after assembling to maintain toast crispiness.

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato bruschetta, garlic baguette toast, Italian appetizer, basil tomato topping, easy appetizer