Bruschetta

This easy Bruschetta recipe is a fresh, flavorful appetizer made with toasted French baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for holiday entertaining, summer cookouts, game day, or any gathering, this classic Italian appetizer comes together in minutes and is always a crowd-pleaser.

📝 Ingredients

• 6 medium vine ripened or Roma tomatoes (remove seeds, cube)
• 3-4 Tbsp fresh basil cut into ribbons (divided use)
• 2 medium garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (plus additional for brushing french bread)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2-1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 18-20 inch french bread baguette (sliced)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a medium bowl, gently mix together diced tomatoes, minced garlic, 2 Tbsp basil, balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap and chill while you make the crostini or up to 1-2 hours.
2. 2To Make Crostini: Preheat the oven for 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
3. 3Slice bread into 3/4-inch thick slices. Arrange the sliced baguette. Brush each side with olive oil and place them onto the baking sheet. Sprinkle tops with shredded parmesan cheese.
4. 4Toast for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and lightly crisp.
5. 5To Assemble Bruschetta: Remove tomato mixture from the refrigerator and season with salt and black pepper, if you haven't already done so.
6. 6Spoon the tomato mixture onto each baguette slice and garnish with ribbons of basil.
7. 7You can sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese, crumbled goat cheese or drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired. Serve immediately.
8. 8Special Note: When serving immediately, go ahead and season the tomato mixture with salt and black pepper. When chilling to serve later, I recommend that you wait and season with salt just before assembling to avoid the tomatoes from become too watery.