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Bruschetta

A classic Italian appetizer featuring crunchy, garlicky toast topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. The perfect appetizer for any gathering.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Appetizer, Starter
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the tomato topping
  • 6 large Roma tomatoes, diced Roma tomatoes hold less water and are preferred for this recipe.
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion Red onion balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Use freshly minced garlic for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Fresh basil is strongly recommended.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste Salting the tomatoes draws out excess moisture.
For the toasted bread
  • 1 loaf French baguette or rustic Italian loaf, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces Choose your preferred bread type.
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil For brushing on the bread.
  • 2 cloves garlic, pressed into the oil Infuses flavor into the olive oil.
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt Use for sprinkling on top of the bread.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Dice the Roma tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 20 to 30 minutes to draw out excess liquid.
  2. In a small bowl, press two cloves of garlic into the olive oil. Stir well and let it sit to infuse the flavor.
  3. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Toast the Bread
  1. Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of each bread slice with the garlic-infused olive oil. Arrange them on a baking sheet and sprinkle with sea salt.
  2. Bake in the oven for 6 to 8 minutes, keeping an eye out for doneness. The bread should be golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Topping
  1. Transfer the drained tomatoes to a mixing bowl and add diced red onion, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Gently mix in the olive oil and adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
Assembly
  1. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices just before serving. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.

Notes

For best results, always use ripe, fragrant tomatoes and never assemble ahead of time. The toasted bread can be made several hours or a day ahead and warmed in the oven before serving.