Fresh Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta with Basil
A simple, fresh heirloom tomato bruschetta with basil that is quick to prepare and perfect for summer parties. This recipe balances sweet, tangy tomatoes with aromatic basil and a hint of garlic on toasted crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, diced
- A handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, minced or finely grated
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 loaf baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Wash and dry 2 cups of heirloom tomatoes. Dice into roughly 1/2-inch pieces and transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
- Remove basil leaves from stems, stack, roll into a cigar shape, and slice finely (chiffonade). Add chopped basil to the tomatoes.
- Mince or grate 1 large garlic clove and stir into the tomato and basil mixture. Season with about 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar if desired.
- Pour in 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and gently toss everything together. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to mingle.
- Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Toast on a baking sheet or grill pan under a broiler or on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp but not burnt.
- Optional: Rub a peeled garlic clove over the warm toasted bread slices for subtle garlic aroma.
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted bread slice. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Notes
If tomatoes are very juicy, drain excess liquid before topping bread to avoid sogginess. Assemble bruschetta just before serving to keep bread crisp. For gluten-free, substitute bread with gluten-free bread or crisp crackers. Optional garlic rub on toasted bread adds subtle aroma without overpowering.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3-4 slices per
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: heirloom tomato bruschetta, basil bruschetta, summer appetizer, easy bruschetta recipe, fresh tomato appetizer, party appetizer, vegetarian bruschetta