Description
Learn how to make a delicious tomato and basil bruschetta with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (about 900g)
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) finely chopped white onion (about 1/2 medium)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil (about 21g)
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 1 baguette (French bread)
- 4 to 5 tablespoons (68 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- Thick vinegar (see notes within post) and optional Maldon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Begin by heating your oven (or gas grill*) to 450°F. For easier cleaning, you may wish to cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If your baking sheet is smaller, you might need to toast the bread in two rounds.
- Cut the tomatoes into small cubes and place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl, leaving the seeds and liquid on the cutting board. Mix in the salt, and as you prepare them, add the onion, basil, and garlic. Combine well and let the flavors meld while you prepare the bread.
- Slice the baguette diagonally into pieces no thicker than ½ inch. Typically, I can arrange 20 to 24 pieces on my large baking sheet; you might have some bread remaining. Lightly coat both sides of each slice with olive oil, using about 2 to 3 tablespoons.
- Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Toast them on the middle oven rack for 6 to 9 minutes, until they’re crisp and golden on top. Move the toasted bread to a serving dish, if you wish, and set it aside.
- Before serving, carefully pour out any excess tomato juice from the bowl, using your hand to keep the mixture in place. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well, and adjust the seasoning with more salt to your taste (I often add another ¼ to ½ teaspoon). If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, add another minced clove.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of toast, ensuring you leave behind any extra juice in the bowl. Drizzle a few tablespoons of thick balsamic vinegar over the top, and sprinkle with flaky salt if available. It’s best to enjoy the bruschetta immediately.
Notes
- Consider enhancing the flavor by roasting the tomatoes before combining them with other ingredients.
- Customize the bruschetta by incorporating additional herbs like oregano or parsley.
- For a softer texture, allow the tomato mixture to rest for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.