Traditional Bruschetta

Name: Traditional Bruschetta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices Italian bread; 4 ripe tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 7 min

🍽 Serves: 4

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Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that turns humble ingredients into something truly special. Perfect for showcasing ripe tomatoes, this dish is a gorgeous addition to any gathering or a simple treat for yourself. Let's dive into making this vibrant, fresh creation!

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Ingredients for Traditional Bruschetta

Italian bread: The foundation of our bruschetta, it provides the perfect sturdy base for the toppings. Choose a loaf with a nice crust and soft interior.

Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy is the way to go. They bring the sweet, tangy flavor that defines bruschetta.

Fresh basil leaves: These add a delightful aromatic quality. Their sweet-spicy flavor is a classic pairing with tomatoes.

Garlic: Just two cloves infuse the dish with robust flavor, turning simple bread and tomatoes into something magical.

Extra virgin olive oil: It blends everything together with a rich, fruity note and helps the bread get that perfect golden crisp.

Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

If your tomatoes are extra juicy, consider draining some liquid to prevent soggy bread.
For added flavor, rub a fresh garlic clove on the bread slices right after toasting.
Use a serrated knife for slicing the bread to prevent squishing.

Serving Suggestions

Bruschetta pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. It’s also great alongside a fresh green salad or a selection of Italian cheeses for an appetizer spread. For a heartier option, serve with a bowl of minestrone soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the tomato mixture ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture a couple of hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add the basil right before serving to keep it fresh.
What type of tomatoes work best?: Roma or heirloom tomatoes are excellent choices for their flavor and texture. Just ensure they are ripe.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?: Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but if you must use dried, start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Traditional Bruschetta Recipe Walkthrough

First off, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab your Italian bread and slice it into about eight even pieces. You want them thick enough to hold toppings but not too chunky.

Place your slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with a bit of olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps the bread toast up nicely and adds flavor. Pop them into the oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye out — you’re looking for a lovely golden brown.

While the bread is toasting, it’s time to prepare the tomato mixture. Dice your ripe tomatoes and toss them into a bowl. Add the chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, and the remaining olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all those delicious flavors.

Once the bread is toasted, take it out of the oven and let it cool for just a minute. Then, spoon the tomato mixture generously over each slice. The juices will soak slightly into the bread, creating a delightful blend of textures.

Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp. Enjoy the compliments that will undoubtedly follow!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare, making it great for busy evenings.
Uses simple ingredients you might already have at home.
A fresh, flavorful way to use up seasonal tomatoes.
Customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

8 slices Italian bread

4 ripe tomatoes, diced

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt to taste

Black pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and brush with a bit of olive oil.

3. Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

4. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.